A fatal bicycle accident in New York City late last month marks a sad milestone for the city. 52-year-old Jose Alzorriz was the 19th bicyclist to die on city streets in 2019. Mr. Alzorriz was riding his bike at the intersection of Coney Island Avenue and Avenue L in the Midwood section of Brooklyn when a two-car collision caused one of the vehicles to smash into him.
This chain reaction collision in Brooklyn was caused when a young driver ran through a red light at the intersection and smashed into a blue Honda. The Honda was struck so hard that it was pushed up onto the curb where the vehicle struck both Mr. Alzorriz and a pedestrian. Both victims were rushed to nearby hospitals but Mr. Alzorriz succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. The pedestrian who was struck in the collision was listed in stable condition.
This stretch of roadway has come under the scrutiny of safety advocates in the past for its poor pedestrian design. It is, as these advocates note, “designed for cars” and allows vehicles to operate at rates of speed often deemed unsafe. This leaves pedestrians and bicyclists fearful and makes even strolling along the sidewalk potentially life-threatening. Nevertheless, there is no excuse for running a red light.
In this case, the surviving family members will have a claim against that vehicle’s owner and driver for pain and suffering for the time Mr. Alzorriz survived after the accident, funeral expenses and the amount of money he would have contributed to his household over his work lifetime. The pedestrian will also have a claim for pain and suffering along with lost wages, present and into the future. The injured parties will also be eligible for no-fault benefits which will pay for medical expenses.
If you’ve been involved in a car/bike collision, you need a bicycle accident lawyer in New York City who knows the law and how to get you the compensation you deserve. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation today.