Photo courtesy of News 12 Connecticut
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A tragic and high-profile drunk driving crash on the New York State Thruway is once again drawing attention to the devastating consequences of impaired driving across the Hudson Valley and New York City region.
The Incident: Fatal Motorcycle Crash on I-87
According to prosecutors, a former NYPD officer from Elmsford, Westchester County, has been indicted on serious criminal charges following a fatal collision that occurred just after midnight on July 27, 2023, in the Town of Cornwall in Orange County.
Authorities allege that the driver, while off duty, was operating his personal vehicle under the influence of alcohol when he struck a motorcyclist traveling northbound on I-87 (New York State Thruway). The victim was thrown from the motorcycle and suffered catastrophic injuries, ultimately losing her life at the scene.
The indictment includes:
- Second-degree vehicular manslaughter
- Multiple counts of driving while intoxicated (DWI)
Prosecutors further allege the driver had a blood alcohol content at or above the legal limit of 0.08%.
This case is being handled by the New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation, as required when a law enforcement officer is involved in a fatal incident.
A Stark Reminder: DWI Crashes Are Still Happening Across Westchester & NYC
While this crash occurred in Orange County, the legal and safety implications hit close to home for drivers throughout Westchester County, White Plains, Yonkers, and down into NYC (Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn).
Major roadways like:
- I-87 (New York State Thruway)
- Hutchinson River Parkway
- Bronx River Parkway
- I-287 in Harrison
…see heavy traffic day and night — and unfortunately, impaired driving continues to be a factor in serious and fatal crashes.
Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, they have little protection in a collision, making accidents involving drunk drivers particularly deadly.
Criminal Charges vs. Civil Justice: What Families Need to Know
While criminal charges may result in prison time, they do NOT compensate victims or their families for what they’ve lost.
If you or a loved one has been injured — or killed — in a drunk driving accident, you may have the right to pursue a civil personal injury or wrongful death claim.
This can help recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship
An experienced car accident lawyer can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, and build a case designed to hold negligent drivers fully accountable.
Why Trial Experience Matters in Serious DWI Cases
Not all personal injury attorneys are prepared to take a case to trial — but that’s often what it takes in high-stakes drunk driving cases.
At The Law Offices of Norman Gershon, you get:
35 YEARS OF TRIAL EXPERIENCE PUT TO WORK FOR YOU.
Norman Gershon is widely recognized as the attorney other lawyers call to try their toughest cases. His results include:
- $16.5 million verdict – bus collision with spinal fractures (Bronx)
- $14.5 million settlement – catastrophic bus accident injuries (Queens)
- $5.068 million verdict – motor vehicle accident with cervical fusion
- $2.5 million verdict – Westchester County intersection crash
These results reflect decades of courtroom success across Westchester County and NYC.
What Clients Say
“Smart, experienced, compassionate, tough… you owe it to yourself to have him assess your situation.” — Michael Benowich
“He got me a bigger settlement than I expected… kind, caring, compassionate.” — Nancy Joyce
“Top-notch… confident, prepared, and knew exactly how to handle the jury.” — Lance, NY
Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident? Protect Your Rights
Drunk driving crashes often involve complex legal issues — especially when:
- A government employee is involved
- Multiple parties may share liability
- Insurance companies aggressively defend claims
If you’ve been injured on roads like the Thruway, Hutch, Bronx River Parkway, or I-287, time is critical. Evidence can disappear quickly, and deadlines apply.
An experienced car accident lawyer serving Westchester County, White Plains, Yonkers, and NYC can help you take immediate action.
Speak With a Proven Trial Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by a drunk driving accident, don’t leave your future to chance.
The Law Offices of Norman Gershon has recovered tens of millions of dollars for injury victims and is ready to fight for you.
Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you pursue maximum compensation.
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