Daniele Muratore Killed in Vienna Pedestrian Accident
51-year-old Rome resident struck after two vehicles collide on State Route 13
Daniele Muratore, 51, of Rome, was killed in a pedestrian crash on State Route 13 near Trestle Road in Vienna on Aug. 25, according to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office.
Paramedics from AmCare Ambulance Service and Camden volunteer firefighters rushed to the scene at approximately 6:50 p.m., but the victim was pronounced dead before transport. Investigators determined a northbound car slowed to allow the crossing, but a second vehicle rear-ended it, spinning the first car onto the shoulder where it struck Muratore, killing him.
The crash closed the highway between Trestle Road and Hillsboro Road for several hours.
The State Police assisted deputies with the ongoing investigation.
According to the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, New York averages about 300 pedestrian deaths yearly.
What is the investigation progress on State Route 13?
Deputies are examining the sequence of events that led the second driver to strike the stopped vehicle. In pedestrian accidents such as this, crash reconstructionists analyze skid marks, vehicle data recorders, and driver distraction to understand why a vehicle failed to stop in time.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Catastrophic injuries from pedestrian crashes happen because a human body offers almost no protection against a moving vehicle, unlike occupants cushioned by seatbelts and airbags. Secondary strikes against pavement often worsen severe trauma within an instant."
"An attorney coordinates with medical experts and accident reconstructionists to document catastrophic injuries, ensuring insurance companies cannot minimize the financial toll facing affected families," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
How does rural corridor data compare to statewide pedestrian risks?
While urban centers report higher total numbers of pedestrian incidents, rural highways often see higher death rates due to increased vehicle speeds and limited shoulder space.
Investigators will review the historical crash frequency along this specific stretch of State Route 13 to determine if infrastructure or lighting played a role in the collision.
New York wrongful death statute
Under N.Y. EPTL § 5-4.1, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. New York applies pure comparative fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of parental guidance, funeral expenses, and the decedent's conscious pain and suffering.
"Filing a wrongful death claim gives surviving family members a clear way to seek answers after a fatal car accident," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
Formica, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, noted, "Serving as an advocate, an attorney handles the complicated legal steps so grieving relatives can focus completely on emotional healing during a very difficult time."