New York roadways are some of the most complicated in the nation. They are busy, packed with cars, trucks, taxis, emergency vehicles, messenger couriers, pedestrians and others. Operating a vehicle recklessly or negligently can result in personal injury and sometimes even death. Even a vigilant driver can still be taken by surprise.

Two drivers in Brooklyn recently experienced just that on a Saturday afternoon. The accident left a young boy dead, while a woman and two other children were left injured. One man driving an SUV was apparently turning left when he was hit by another car.

Tragically, the car pinned a nine-year-old boy. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Also injured were a five-year-old boy, a ten-year-old girl, and a 47-year-old woman. Thankfully none of their injuries were life-threatening. Both drivers remained on the scene to speak with authorities.

There is a question of whether either driver was distracted, perhaps by a cell phone call or text message. Perhaps one of the drivers was in a hurry and didn't pay attention to traffic signals. At last report, law enforcement was still investigating this car accident, though there were no signs of criminal conduct.

Fortunately, New York law allows for civil litigation when there is evidence of negligence or reckless driving. Any personal injury compensation awarded for a successfully litigated case could ease the victim's pain and suffering while covering the costs of medical bills, any necessary rehabilitation, and lost wages. Similarly, if a family member was killed in a traffic accident, the surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for the suffering incurred.