GMC Sierra struck a person near the northbound lanein South Bristol, leaving one seriously injured
April 06, 2026 | South Bristol, NY
Authorities arrested a 58-year-old Canandaigua resident after a vehicle struck a pedestrian, causing serious injuries along State Route 64.
Terry S. Cole, 58, was arrested after a pedestrian was seriously injured in a crash on State Route 64 in South Bristol.
What Happened in the Crash?
On April 6, Terry S. Cole drove a 2008 GMC Sierra southbound on State Route 64 near the northbound lane around 6:03 p.m. The vehicle hit an unidentified pedestrian walking nearby.
- Date and Time: April 6, approximately 6:03 p.m.
- Location: State Route 64, South Bristol, Ontario County, New York
- Vehicle Involved: 2008 GMC Sierra
- Driver: Terry S. Cole, 58, from Canandaigua
- Victim: Unidentified pedestrian with serious injuries
- Medical Response: Victim airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital
Investigators from the Ontario County Sheriff's Office reviewed evidence and, on April 20, concluded Cole drove recklessly. He was arrested at his home and charged with second-degree assault.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian safety remains a critical concern nationwide, as demonstrated in this South Bristol case. Reckless driving, failure to follow traffic rules, and other factors contribute to such incidents.
Common causes include:
- Inexperienced or distracted drivers
- Disregard for speed limits and pedestrian rights
- Navigating unfamiliar roads
- Impairment from alcohol or drugs
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes injure thousands of pedestrians annually, underscoring the need for thorough investigations.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Pedestrian Injuries (2021) |
62,000+ |
CDC |
Fatal Pedestrian Crashes (Annual Average) |
7,500 |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Common Cause: Distracted Driving |
8-10% of Cases |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of detailed accident reconstructions in pedestrian collision cases.
"Investigators must reconstruct the scene using available evidence to determine fault," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline. "In cases such as this, resources like witnesses, driver background checks, witness interviews, and insurance reviews are essential to support affected families compassionately while safeguarding their rights."
Key takeaways:
- Hire professionals to gather comprehensive evidence
- Conduct thorough background and witness verifications
- Review all applicable insurance policies promptly
- Seek guidance to navigate emotional and financial challenges
"Those harmed in collisions may pursue personal injury claims for medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, and suffering," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "Understanding your rights and acting quickly can provide recovery pathways, as the legal system aims to assist victims."
- Victims often face disruptions to daily life, work, and finances
- Immediate legal steps protect long-term interests
- Compensation can cover ongoing care and rehabilitation needs
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(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).