Drunk Driving Crash Kills Two on Southern State Parkway

A suspected drunk driver caused a devastating six-vehicle crash on the Southern State Parkway in Hempstead, Long Island, on a June evening around 10:15 p.m. near Exit 17S. According to New York State Police, a 36-year-old Oceanside woman was allegedly intoxicated and speeding when she sideswiped a BMW, lost control of her Cadillac Escalade, crossed the median, and struck a Toyota Highlander head-on. The collision killed two passengers in the Highlander, Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent B. Maxwell, 88, and left at least one other person in critical condition. Ten people and six vehicles were involved, and the highway was closed for hours. The driver now faces charges including aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, and driving while intoxicated. State police are asking anyone with video or information to come forward as the investigation continues.

While criminal charges address punishment, they do not compensate families for funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, or the loss of a loved one. A separate civil claim is how survivors recover those damages. New York law allows added damages in some drunk driving cases because the conduct exceeds ordinary carelessness. Evidence such as vehicle data, video, and witness accounts is strongest immediately after a crash and can disappear if not preserved. New York also sets firm deadlines for injury and wrongful death cases, so families who wait too long may lose the right to recover. An experienced New City, NY car accident lawyer can explain what compensation you are entitled to, and firms often help victims of drunk drivers on local roads gather proof before it is gone.

At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, the New City office has served Rockland County for over 50 years and recovered more than $500 million for clients in injury and accident cases. Founding attorney Barry S. Kantrowitz holds an AV Preeminent Martindale-Hubbell rating, the highest mark for legal skill and ethics. The firm reviews police reports, scene evidence, and medical records to build a clear case. If your loss came from another driver's negligence, you may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. If a drunk or reckless driver hurt you or took someone you love, reach out for a free consultation. You owe nothing unless they recover for you, and the first conversation is private and comes with no pressure.