Wrong-way driver crossed median and struck Toyota Highlander head-on
March 15, 2026 | Hempstead, NY
Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent Maxwell, 88, lost their lives in a devastating collision on the Southern State Parkway, caused by an impaired driver traveling the wrong way.
Donald Maxwell, 82, and Liscent Maxwell, 88, died after a wrong-way driver caused a head-on crash on the Southern State Parkway in Hempstead.
What Happened in the Crash?
State Police reported the incident occurred around 10:13 a.m. just west of Exit 17 South. A westbound Cadillac Escalade, operated by 36-year-old Diana Kutateladze, sideswiped a gray BMW in the left lane. The Escalade then veered across the center median, entered the eastbound lanes heading west, and collided with several vehicles before slamming head-on into a Toyota Highlander carrying the Maxwells as passengers.
Both Maxwells were declared deceased at the scene. The multi-vehicle wreck involved six cars and 10 individuals. Several people required hospital treatment, with one unidentified person suffering severe injuries. Authorities cited excessive speed and driver impairment as key factors.
- Date and Time: March 15, approximately 10:13 a.m.
- Location: Southern State Parkway, west of Exit 17 South, Hempstead, NY
- Vehicles Involved: Cadillac Escalade, gray BMW, Toyota Highlander, and four others
- Injuries: Two fatalities, and multiple hospitalizations, including one critical case
- Charges Against Driver: Aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter, assault, driving while intoxicated (DWI), and reckless driving
Why Do Wrong-Way DWI Crashes Occur?
Impaired driving significantly heightens crash risks due to diminished judgment, blurred vision, poor coordination, and slower reactions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol contributes to about 30% of all traffic deaths in the U.S.
In New York, such incidents led to 371 deaths in 2022, marking a 45% rise over the prior three years. The Federal Highway Administration notes that wrong-way driving often stems from confusion at exits, signage issues, or intoxication.
Factor |
Contribution to Crashes |
Source |
|---|
Alcohol Impairment |
Reduces reaction time by up to 25% |
CDC |
Wrong-Way Travel |
Involved in 1 in 5 fatal highway crashes |
Federal Highway Administration |
Speed |
Increases crash severity by 50%+ |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
New York DWI Fatalities (2022) |
371 deaths |
New York State Police |
Legal Insights
National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline, shared perspectives on handling impaired driving incidents.
"In cases such as this, separate from any criminal charges, families of those affected may pursue compensation via a civil lawsuit against the at-fault driver," said Bond. "An attorney can offer compassionate support, safeguard legal rights, and ensure accountability for reckless behavior behind the wheel."
Key takeaways from Bond's analysis:
- Families may claim damages for emotional distress, loss of companionship, and related suffering.
- Legal representation helps navigate investigations and protect interests during recovery.
- Holding impaired drivers accountable prevents future tragedies and supports systemic changes.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, emphasized the importance of wrongful death claims.
"We recognize the profound challenges families endure after such losses, and protecting their rights is essential," said Formica. "A wrongful death attorney monitors official investigations and prioritizes the family's needs, allowing claims for companionship loss, pain, suffering, and emotional impact."
- Wrongful death suits can cover funeral costs, medical bills, and long-term financial support.
- Prompt action preserves evidence and meets filing deadlines.
- Experienced counsel ensures fair compensation aligned with state laws.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).