Route 5 and Lakeview Road Hamburg Car Accident Death

In Hamburg, New York, the Town of Hamburg Police is currently investigating a tragic motor vehicle accident that claimed the life of a woman. The incident took place at the intersection of Route 5 and Lakeview Road around 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, as reported by the Hamburg police department.

The victim was 37-year-old Jenny E. Zuhlke of the four thousand block of Saint Francis Drive, Hamburg, NY , who tragically lost her life in the crash. The driver of the vehicle involved, 40-year-old Andrew Rydzewski, sustained serious injuries and was rushed to ECMC for medical treatment.

In the event of a car accident resulting in a fatality, the family of the victim may have several legal options available to them, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the applicable laws in their jurisdiction. Here are some potential legal options and our top New York car accident lawyers are here to help:

1. Civil Lawsuit: The family may choose to file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party or parties seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship. This lawsuit may be based on negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing.
2. Wrongful Death Claim: Many jurisdictions have laws allowing for wrongful death claims, which enable the family members of a deceased person to seek compensation for the losses they have suffered as a result of the death. These claims typically cover economic damages such as medical expenses and lost income, as well as non-economic damages such as emotional distress and loss of companionship.
3. Insurance Claims: The family may file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver or their own insurance company, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the available insurance coverage. This may include claims for wrongful death benefits, medical expenses, funeral expenses, and other damages covered under the insurance policy.
4. Criminal Prosecution: In cases where the accident was caused by reckless or intentional conduct, the responsible party may face criminal charges, such as vehicular manslaughter or homicide. While criminal prosecution is initiated by the state rather than the family, the family may have the opportunity to participate in the criminal proceedings as victims or witnesses.
5. Settlement Negotiations: In many cases, the parties involved may choose to negotiate a settlement outside of court, either through informal negotiations or through a structured settlement process. This can often result in a faster resolution and may provide the family with compensation without the need for a lengthy legal battle.

It’s important for the family of a car accident victim to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury and wrongful death cases. An attorney can provide guidance on the best course of action based on the specific circumstances of the accident and can help the family pursue the legal options that are most likely to result in fair compensation for their losses.