Hyde Park, NY — January 14, 2025, Joshua Ortiz was injured in a multi-vehicle accident at about 3:15 p.m. on Albany Post Road.
Authorities said a 2017 Dodge Ram pickup rear-ended a 2002 Hyundai, then crashed into a 2023 Honda Accord, forcing the smaller vehicle into a fence in the 4600 block of Albany Post Road. The Hyundai was knocked into oncoming traffic, where it collided with a Hyde Park Central School District bus.
The Hyundai driver, 28-year-old Joshua Ortiz, was seriously injured in the crash, according to authorities. He had to be extricated from his vehicle before he was transported to a local hospital.
The Honda driver, 11 Haviland Middle School students and an aide from the bus were hospitalized for evaluation, authorities said.
A preliminary investigation indicates the Dodge driver was districted by something in his pickup before the crash, according to authorities. He was not injured.
The crash is still being investigated.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
The multi-vehicle accident on Albany Post Road in Hyde Park illustrates the complex chain of events that can occur when distraction or other factors lead to a loss of focus on the road. With several vehicles and individuals affected, including schoolchildren, it is crucial for investigators to conduct a comprehensive inquiry to understand what caused this crash and how similar incidents might be prevented in the future. To do this effectively, three critical questions must be addressed.
First, did authorities conduct a thorough investigation of the crash? Initial reports suggest that distraction may have been a factor for the driver of the Dodge Ram, but a complete analysis of the scene is essential to confirm this and identify other potential contributing factors. Did investigators examine the Dodge for evidence of sudden braking or steering input before the collision? Was the road evaluated for hazards such as poor visibility, uneven pavement or other conditions that could have exacerbated the crash? Additionally, documenting the sequence of impacts and gathering witness statements, as well as reviewing nearby traffic cameras, could provide a clearer picture of how the events unfolded.
Second, has anyone considered whether a mechanical issue in any of the vehicles could have contributed to the crash? While distraction has been cited as a potential cause, it is still important to rule out mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions in the Dodge or the Hyundai, that could have played a role in the collisions or reduced the drivers’ ability to avoid impacts. A detailed forensic examination of each vehicle involved, especially those that sustained significant damage, can help determine whether all systems were functioning properly. Preserving the vehicles for this purpose is essential.
Finally, has all available electronic data been collected? Modern vehicles are equipped with engine control modules (ECMs) that store critical data about the moments leading up to a crash, such as speed, braking, and steering inputs. This information could confirm whether the Dodge driver attempted evasive maneuvers or whether distraction delayed any response. Additionally, investigators should review dashcam footage, traffic camera recordings and any surveillance footage from nearby locations. Examining cell phone records for the Dodge driver could also help establish whether distraction was due to phone use. Collecting this evidence promptly is critical to ensure it remains available for analysis.
A crash involving multiple vehicles and injuries, particularly one that affects schoolchildren, demands a meticulous investigation to uncover all contributing factors. By addressing these three questions, authorities can provide clarity and accountability for all those affected.
call us 
Email Us 
Text us