Last Updated on October 2, 2025

Man Arrested on DWI Charges During Fatal Pedestrian Accident Investigation in Wheatfield

A tragic incident unfolded in Wheatfield, New York on Thursday morning when a fatal pedestrian accident occurred on Niagara Falls Boulevard. The Niagara County Sheriff's Office was investigating this devastating crash when another dangerous situation developed that put additional lives at risk.

While deputies were working to secure the accident scene around 7:45 a.m., they had rerouted all northbound traffic to protect the integrity of their investigation. However, during this critical time, a driver allegedly disregarded all traffic control measures, drove around emergency vehicles, and traveled northbound in the southbound lane. The man was subsequently arrested on DWI charges, including Operating a Motor Vehicle While Impaired by Drugs and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, along with multiple traffic violations. You can read more about this incident in the original news report.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

  • Distracted driving, including texting, phone calls, or other activities that take attention away from the road
  • Failure to yield right-of-way at crosswalks and intersections
  • Speeding or driving too fast for weather or road conditions
  • Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs
  • Poor visibility conditions, such as darkness, fog, or weather
  • Inadequate street lighting or poorly marked crosswalks
  • Driver fatigue or drowsiness
  • Failure to stop at traffic signals or stop signs

When negligence on the part of a driver, municipality, or other responsible party contributes to a pedestrian accident, victims and their families may be entitled to seek legal compensation for their injuries and losses.

Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in Wheatfield, NY

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the vulnerability of individuals on foot compared to motor vehicles. When these tragic incidents occur due to someone else's negligence, victims and their families may have grounds for personal injury or wrongful death claims under New York law.

Potential liable parties in pedestrian accident cases may include negligent drivers, vehicle owners, employers (in cases involving commercial vehicles), municipalities (for poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage), and property owners (where hazardous conditions contribute to the accident). Compensation in these cases may cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages and future earning capacity, pain and suffering, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. While no amount of money can truly compensate for such devastating losses, legal action can provide financial security and hold responsible parties accountable. Our team at Porter Law Group has successfully represented clients in complex personal injury cases throughout New York State.

Damages and Compensation

Understanding the types of damages available in pedestrian accident cases is crucial for victims and their families. Economic damages cover quantifiable losses such as medical bills, hospital expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. These damages are calculated based on actual expenses and documented financial losses.

Non-economic damages address the intangible impacts of an accident, including physical pain, emotional suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability or disfigurement. In wrongful death cases, families may also recover damages for loss of companionship, guidance, and support.

Future losses are also considered, including ongoing medical care, therapy, and the long-term impact on earning capacity. In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

Compensation is calculated using medical records, expert testimony, employment records, and other evidence that demonstrates the full extent of losses. The purpose of this compensation is not only to help restore what was lost but also to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies from occurring. If you need assistance with your case, don't hesitate to contact our experienced legal team for guidance.

Pedestrian accidents can have life-altering consequences, and navigating the legal process while dealing with injuries or loss can be overwhelming. Having experienced legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve. For immediate assistance, you can reach us at info@porterlawteam.com or call our office directly.

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Why Choose Porter Law Group?

The attorneys at Porter Law Group have decades of experience representing individuals and families whose lives have been devastated by pedestrian accidents and other catastrophic injuries. We have obtained some of the largest settlements and verdicts in courts throughout the State of New York, and we are a state-wide firm that handles cases with a hometown feel.

Our clients come to us looking for guidance and answers during their most difficult times. With seasoned trial lawyers, the Porter Law Group has the resources necessary to help you navigate the most complex cases, even against major insurance companies that will stop at nothing to prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations with no upfront fees, and we only get paid when we win your case.

You only get one chance to hire the best lawyer for you and your family. Choose the lawyers most recommended by former clients and local attorneys, and the firm that obtains superior results. When you or a loved one's life has been devastated by a serious personal injury in New York, don't hire a lawyer without calling the Porter Law Group to learn why so many of our clients are thankful they trusted us with their case in their time of need.

Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in New York

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in New York, don't hesitate to reach out to the skilled legal team at The Porter Law Group. We offer free initial consultations and are ready to guide you through the complex litigation process of New York State. Let us put our knowledge and resources to work while you focus on recovering from your injuries.

Contact us today at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com. We serve clients across all of New York State and encourage you to contact us promptly after an accident to protect your legal rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

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Michael S. Porter
Personal Injury Attorney
Originally from Upstate New York, Mike built a distinguished legal career after graduating from Harvard University and earning his juris doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law. He served as a Captain in the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, gaining expertise in trial work, and is now a respected trial attorney known for securing multiple million-dollar results for his clients while actively participating in legal organizations across Upstate NY.
Legally Reviewed on October 2, 2025
Eric C. Nordby
Personal Injury Attorney
Eric, with nearly three decades of experience in personal injury litigation, holds a law degree with honors from the University at Buffalo School of Law and a Bachelor's Degree from Cornell University. His extensive career encompasses diverse state and federal cases, resulting in substantial client recoveries, and he actively engages in legal associations while frequently lecturing on legal topics.
This Article Was Professionally Reviewed
This page was Legally Reviewed by Eric C. Nordby on October 2, 2025. Our experts verify everything you read to make sure it's up to date. For information on our content creation and review process read our editorial guidelines. If you notice an error or have any questions about our content please contact us.
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