What Happens If You Intentionally Try To Run Someone Over In Rockland County?

A pedestrian accident is one thing, but what happens when you intentionally try to run someone over in Rockland County? In this situation, you could face much more serious criminal penalties. You can face these allegations even if you genuinely struck a pedestrian by accident. You may need to get in touch with an experienced defense attorney in Rockland County to prove that this collision was truly accidental.

Stony Point Man Accused of Attempting to Hit Pedestrian on Purpose 

In August of 2024, it was reported that a man had attempted to intentionally ram a person with his car in Rockland County. The incident occurred in a Stony Point parking lot, and it apparently began as a domestic dispute. According to numerous witnesses and the police, a man had attempted to intervene in a couple’s argument. This couple, which consisted of a boyfriend and girlfriend, allegedly sparked concerns when their altercation became violent.

The man who intervened allegedly did so because the girlfriend was being held in a headlock and suffering multiple strikes to the head and chest. Seeing this, the man approached with a baseball bat and tried to defuse the situation. At some point, the defendant got into his vehicle and attempted to ram the individual three times. Each time, he reportedly “narrowly missed” the intended target.

Police say that after attempting to intervene, the man swung his baseball bat at the approaching vehicle “in self-defense,” damaging the windshield at one point. After the police arrived at the scene, the defendant was arrested and charged with numerous offenses. These include assault, attempted assault, and “obstruction of government administration.”

A Vehicle Is Considered a Deadly Weapon in New York 

A vehicle is considered a “deadly weapon” according to New York law, especially if you use it to intentionally strike a pedestrian. As a result, you might face much more serious charges than assault if you try to hit someone with your car. Theoretically, you could be charged with attempted murder. You might also face charges of assault with a deadly weapon – especially if you strike and injure the intended target.

What if I Accidentally Struck a Pedestrian? 

If you accidentally struck a pedestrian, you should not have to face charges such as attempted murder or assault. However, you must prove that your pedestrian accident was not intentional – and an experienced lawyer may be able to help you accomplish this goal.

Find an Experienced Defense Attorney in Rockland County 

If you’ve been searching for experienced New City criminal defense lawyers, look no further than Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants throughout New York – including those accused of traffic offenses. We know how easy it can be to face manslaughter or even murder charges for accidental collisions. Reach out today to learn more about your legal options – and get started with a defense attorney.

Sources: 

patch.com/new-york/nyack/man-tried-run-over-bystander-who-defended-girlfriend-police

nyc.gov/assets/nypd/downloads/pdf/community_affairs/nypd-school-safety-public-awareness-bulletin.pdf