A late night bicycle accident in New York City left a 17-year old young man in critical condition and the driver on the run from police. Just after 10:30 PM near the intersection of Jerome Avenue and East 223rd Street, an unnamed 17-year old was struck by a speeding motorist. The motorist left the injured teen lying in the road and sped off. When rescue crews arrived they found the teen in serious condition with head trauma and a number of other injuries. He was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center where he was listed in critical condition.
The driver was eventually apprehended by police. 37-year old Kabiru Mohammed of Mount Vernon was charged with fleeing the scene of an accident. NYPD officials say other charges may be pending as they continue to investigate the bicycle accident in the Bronx.
Last year the number of bicycle accidents in New York actually decreased but many ended in fatalities. Factors like visibility, road etiquette, and distraction often play parts in bicycle/car collisions in New York. While bicyclist do have a certain responsibility to obey the traffic laws and ensure vehicle drivers can see them (especially at night), the liability for such accidents often falls squarely on the driver.
There is no word on whether or not this young victim is expected to pull through. If he fails to do so, the driver of the hit and run vehicle could be charged with manslaughter.
Regardless of the criminal charges, family members of the young victim can sue with the help of a qualified New York City bicycle accident attorney. The driver could be ordered by a jury to pay financial damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
If you or a loved one has been in a similar accident, contact an attorney today to safeguard your rights and collect the money you may deserve. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation at or 212-385-1122 to learn your rights.