Any fatal car accident is a tragedy, but car accidents that take the lives of children or teenagers affect the entire community in a deep and lasting way. The community in Halfmoon, N.Y., is now reacting to a crash that killed two teens and injured two more.
The accident was caused by a driver who was speeding and quickly changing lanes prior to the accident, according to reports. The driver tested positive for alcohol after the accident, but his blood alcohol content (BAC) was not yet released.
The Halfmoon Crash
Three Shenendehowa High School students and a Shaker High School student were travelling home from a University at Albany basketball game when the SUV one of them was driving was struck by another vehicle.
The students’ 2000 Ford Explorer was travelling along the Northway, between the Thaddius Kosciusko Bridge and Exit 8, at 10:19 p.m. Saturday, December 1, 2012. Witnesses said that a 2004 Volvo, driven by a Clifton Park man, 22, was speeding and changing lanes before it crashed into the rear of the Explorer. The Explorer overturned several times before it stopped on the median.
Two of the teens, the male driver (17) and a female passenger (17), were killed in the accident. The other two passengers were injured and are said to have suffered multiple broken bones.
The Volvo’s driver tested positive for alcohol shortly after the accident. The results of a blood test were reported to the authorities, but have not yet been made public. No charges have been filed yet.
A candlelight vigil was held at Shenendehowa High School Monday evening. The school also put up a memorial with pictures and flowers for the lost students.
What to do if You are Involved in an Accident
If you were injured or lost someone in an accident, your first priority should be your health. Get all the medical treatment you need and retain documentation of your treatment. Filing an injury claim or wrongful death suit may help victims and families recover damages for medical bills, funeral expenses, and other losses. Gacovino, Lake & Associates can talk to you about your accident and possible claim. Contact us at 1-800-246-4878.
