A five-car accident on the Tappan Zee Bridge has left one woman dead and several injured. A driver of a white SUV was going northbound in a southbound lane when he hit a Nissan head-on. The impact caused the Nissan to roll over several times, killing its passenger and injuring the driver. The other cars became involved when a third car hit the Nissan, and two other vehicles joined the pileup.
Authorities are reviewing the head-on collision and are trying to determine whether drugs or alcohol played a role. They have not found any evidence to support that; however, they are researching other possible causes, including a statement that the SUV driver’s wife made to the police about her husband suffering an anxiety attack prior to the crash.
The New York State Thruway Authority stated that they would be working with State Police to review the bridge’s signage and pavement markings at its entrances and exits. Although the New York State Thruway remains one of the safest highways in the nation, the Tappan Zee Bridge has a higher accident rate than most other areas of the New York State Thruway system.
Those who have been injured in automobile accidents may be struggling to pay medical bills. If they are unable to work, they may also be unable to keep up with their expenses due to lost wages. Additionally, the families of those killed in car accidents may find themselves trying to pay funeral expenses and other bills. A personal injury attorney may be able to help those who have been involved in automobile accidents. An attorney may review the details of the incident, including the police reports, in order to make recommendations regarding whether to pursue a case or not.
Source: ABC Local, “Thruway to review signage after fatal Tappan Zee Bridge wrong-way crash“, July 26, 2013
