Legal Options for Victims’ Families in the Tragic July 4th LES Park Crash

On the evening of July 4th, a tragic incident unfolded at Corlears Hook Park on the Lower East Side when Daniel Hyden, 44, allegedly drove his gray Ford F-150 into a crowd of people. The crash resulted in the deaths of Lucille Pinkney, 59, her son Hernan Pinkney, 38, and 43-year-old Ana Morel. Eight others were injured in the incident. According to reports, Hyden was driving under the influence of alcohol. He admitted to having a few drinks but refused a breathalyzer test. Additionally, Hyden’s driving privileges had been suspended due to his failure to answer four prior summonses.

Legal Perspective: What the Victims’ Families Can Do

In the wake of such a devastating event, the families of the victims are understandably seeking justice and compensation for their immense loss. Here are some legal avenues they can explore:

1. Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit: The families of Lucille Pinkney, Hernan Pinkney, and Ana Morel have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against Daniel Hyden. This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for the loss of a loved one due to the negligent or intentional actions of another party. Damages can include funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
2. Personal Injury Claims for the Injured: The eight individuals who were injured in the crash can file personal injury claims. These claims can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. Given the severity of the injuries, the compensation sought in these cases could be substantial.
3. Punitive Damages: In addition to compensatory damages, the victims’ families and the injured parties might be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, serving as a punishment and a deterrent to others.
4. Victim Support Services: It’s crucial for the families and the injured parties to seek support from victim advocacy groups. These organizations can provide emotional support, help navigate the legal process, and connect victims with resources for financial and psychological assistance.
5. Engaging a Competent NYC Car Accident Lawyer: Navigating the legal landscape after such a traumatic event requires skilled legal representation. An experienced NYC Car Accident Lawyer can help build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that the victims’ families receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
6. Holding Other Parties Accountable: If there is evidence that a bar or other establishment served Hyden alcohol while he was already intoxicated, the victims’ families might also have a claim under New York’s Dram Shop laws. These laws allow victims to hold establishments accountable for serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals who then go on to cause harm.

The legal journey following such a tragedy is complex and emotionally taxing. However, by taking these steps, the victims’ families can seek justice and potentially prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

For those affected by this tragic event, seeking the counsel of a dedicated legal team can provide much-needed guidance and support during this difficult time. At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we are committed to fighting for the rights of victims and their families. Contact us at 212.943.1090 for a consultation.