Philip Jacobus Killed in Olive Car Accident
72-year-old man dies after oncoming vehicle crosses center line on State Route 28
Philip Jacobus, 72, was killed in a two-vehicle collision on State Route 28 in Olive, New York, on Aug. 23, according to the State Police.
The westbound Chevrolet crossed into the eastbound lane for unknown reasons and struck the oncoming Mercedes-Benz head-on. Rescuers extricated both drivers from their vehicles. Jacobus, who was driving the Mercedes-Benz, received lifesaving measures at the scene and was initially taken to Health Alliance Hospital. He was later transferred to Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The driver of the Chevrolet, a 19-year-old Smithtown man, also received emergency treatment at the scene before being taken to Health Alliance Hospital, where he died.
The crash remains under investigation.
Why did the Chevrolet cross the center line on State Route 28?
Investigators are working to determine what caused the westbound vehicle to drift into opposing traffic. In head-on collisions such as this, crash reconstructionists examine roadway evidence, vehicle data recorders, and toxicology reports to understand the sequence of events.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "When vehicle accidents result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, victims are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action."
How common are fatal head-on collisions in New York?
While overall traffic death in New York State decreased to 1,101 in 2024 from a decade-high of 1,175 in 2022, rural two-lane highways continue to present significant risks. Head-on crashes often result in severe or fatal injuries due to the combined speed and force of the impacting vehicles.
The sudden loss of a family member in these violent collisions leaves surviving relatives facing immediate emotional and financial burdens.
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.
"Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.