In areas of dense population, many individuals may choose to travel via alternative forms of transportation, such as a bicycle. With much less in the way of protective barriers, cyclists and drivers both have a duty of care to follow to prevent a dangerous accident. A man has been arrested and accused of DUI after a recent collision in New York where he allegedly struck four cyclists, leaving one in critical condition.
According to initial investigations, the four cyclists were waiting at a traffic light when the man pulled his car out of a parking space and came to a halt behind them. Authorities claim the man suddenly accelerated and struck the cyclists, then allegedly proceeded to back up, trapping of them underneath the vehicle in the process. He was reportedly pulled from the vehicle and held down by several individuals until authorities arrived at the scene.
The woman who was pinned under the vehicle reportedly suffered critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital for treatment. The driver of the car submitted to a breath test, and although the results are unclear, he was taken into custody shortly thereafter. He is facing multiple charges in relation to the incident, including vehicular assault and driving under the influence.
The penalties for a DUI conviction are severe, and those who face similar charges may find it beneficial to seek counsel in the initial stages of the process. A defense attorney can examine the situation and provide a client in New York with advice on making informed decisions throughout legal proceedings. If a conviction cannot be avoided, an attorney can assist in pursuing the most favorable outcome possible given the circumstances.
Source: New York Post, “‘Drunk’ driver accused of striking four cyclists in citywide bike tour“, C.J. Sullivan and Daniel Prendergast, Sept. 10, 2017
