Maria Gump Killed in Lockport Car Accident
The 73-year-old passenger died when a Corvette left Ridge Road and rolled over several times
Maria Gump, 73, of Williamsville, was killed in a car accident on Ridge Road near Stone Road in Lockport, New York, on Wednesday, according to the Niagara County Sheriff's Office.
A 2021 Chevrolet Corvette was driving along the road just after 6:30 p.m. when it veered off the pavement, struck a culvert and rolled over several times, investigators said.
The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Corvette, an 83-year-old Cheektowaga man, also died in the wreck.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Why did the Corvette leave Ridge Road?
When a passenger is killed in a single-vehicle crash, investigators must determine why the driver failed to maintain the lane. National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, of Counsel at Counsel at Bond Legal. "When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist."
New York recorded 1,175 motor vehicle death in a recent year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
What are the rights of a passenger's family?
Passengers place their trust in the driver's ability to safely operate the vehicle. When that trust is broken, surviving family members often face unexpected financial burdens alongside their grief.
National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "The passenger may also open a claim with the insurance company of the vehicle they were occupied in if their driver is held liable."
Victims of car accident incidents may wish to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand their legal options.
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.