It is a well-known fact that drivers should be on alert when driving, since the road is a dangerous place, but now the same may be true when individuals simply walk down a side walk.

Police are investigating after a 22-year-old driver lost control of his car and crashed into a phone booth, lamp post and parked cars before jumping the curb and killing two men who had been walking on a Queens sidewalk early this November.

The men, two construction workers, seemingly thought they were out of harm's way, when they were struck. Police say the driver was speeding and tried to hit the brakes, but lost control of the vehicle near Queens Boulevard and hit the men.

The speed limit at the site of the accident is 30 mph, but crash evidence suggests the driver was going much faster. The driver had two outstanding warrants and was taken into custody, but he will likely not face criminal charges for the death of the two men unless he was under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

If a loved one is killed in New York State due to the misconduct or negligence of another person in an automobile accident, it is up to you to take the first step. Generally, the New York wrongful death statute of limitations allows surviving family members two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. If a claim is not filed within this time period, the family will be forever barred filing a wrongful death lawsuit and being compensated for their loss. In some cases, the statute of limitations may be shorter or other time restrictions may apply. Therefore, it's important to speak with a New York wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.

There is no greater pain than losing a loved one, yet knowing that the loss could have been prevented if a driver had been more responsible only adds to that grief. Beyond the pain of losing someone you love, the fatal car accident can also cause financial hardships. In a successful wrongful death lawsuit, compensation may be awarded for funeral and medical costs, loss of earnings and lost benefits.

Victims of New York pedestrian collisions are left to their own resources for personal injury and wrongful death claims to hold wrongdoers responsible. Don't handle it alone, allow an experienced New York attorney to help you get the legal representation and compensation you deserve.