New Jersey Injury Attorney Blog

Two people were injured in a New Jersey car accident involving four vehicles. According to a report by The Star Ledger, the injury accident occurred on Cranbury Road in South Brunswick. Officials say the male driver of an SUV veered into oncoming traffic where he struck a subcompact car driven by a woman in her 70s before striking two other vehicles. The woman was critically injured and a driver of one of the other vehicles was hospitalized as well. It is unclear what caused the crash and an investigation is underway.

Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-88: "A vehicle shall normally be driven in the lane nearest the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway when that lane is available for travel, except when overtaking another vehicle or in preparation for a left turn." Additionally, "a vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from that lane until the driver has first ascertained that the movement can be made with safety." Drivers who make a dangerous lane change or who cross into oncoming traffic may be held liable for the damages they cause.

Auto accident injury victims who have suffered losses as a result of negligent drivers can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, and pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to fight for victims' rights and make sure that they receive just compensation for their losses.

The car accident lawyers in South Brunswick at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to protect the best interests of injured victims and their families. Please contact us at (609) 240-0040 for a free case evaluation.

A 36-year-old driver of a cement mixer was killed in a New Jersey car accident involving two other vehicles. According to a news report in The Star Ledger, the fatal truck accident occurred on Route 202 at Whitenack Road in Bernardsville. Officials are still investigating the cause of the fatal collision. The driver of the truck succumbed to his injuries after being flown to the hospital. A 24-year-old woman was also flown to a hospital with unknown injuries and a third driver, a 53-year-old woman, was treated and released for her injuries. The photos from the crash site show that the impact was severe enough to overturn the cement truck and crush at least one of the two passenger vehicles involved.

Any time there is a serious NJ intersection accident, it must be determined if one of the drivers failed to properly yield the right of way. Did one of the drivers run through a stop sign or a red light? Were any of the motorists speeding, distracted, under the influence, or otherwise negligent? In cases involving driver negligence, the at-fault driver can be held liable for the losses suffered in the crash.

The family of someone killed in a car accident on the job would be well advised to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who will help them pursue compensation both through workers’ compensation benefits, as well as through civil litigation against the at-fault driver.

The experienced Princeton auto accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to help families get the compensation they need after the loss of a loved one. If you have lost someone in a fatal New Jersey accident, please call one of our skilled personal injury attorneys at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

A woman was killed in a recent New Jersey car accident after a dump truck overturned and crushed her SUV. According to a news report in The Courier Post, the fatal truck accident occurred on Haddonfield-Berlin Road near Morris Drive in Cherry Hill. Officials say a vehicle making a left turn forced the dump truck driver to swerve out of the way, causing the sand in the dump truck to shift and making it tip over onto the SUV. The woman inside the SUV was fatally injured in the crash. Neither the dump truck driver nor the driver of the turning car was injured. It is unclear if either of them will be cited for the fatal truck collision.

Under New Jersey law, motorists making a left turn are legally required to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic. When an accident is caused by a driver making a dangerous left turn, there are a number of questions that must be asked. Was the driver distracted or under the influence of alcohol? Why was the oncoming vehicle unable to avoid the collision?

Motorists determined to have been negligent at the time of the accident can be held liable for the resulting damages. When someone is killed in a crash, the at-fault driver can be held liable for the victim's wrongful death. In such cases, compensation may be available to surviving family members for medical bills, lost future wages, funeral expenses, and other related damages.

A skilled fatal auto accident attorney in NJ at Lependorf & Silverstein can help protect the rights of injured victims and their families in New Jersey. Please contact us at (609) 240-0040 to schedule your free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Three people were injured in a New Jersey car accident after a car veered into oncoming traffic. According to a news report in The Press of Atlantic City, the car crash occurred on Ocean Heights Avenue in Egg Harbor Township. Officials say a 38-year-old man let his car cross a double yellow line before striking a car driven by a 47-year-old man. The two drivers and a 36-year-old passenger were all trapped inside their vehicles. They all suffered what were described as minor to moderate injuries. The first driver was charged with failure to maintain his lane, as well as failure to wear a seatbelt.

N.J.S.A. 39:4-88 states: "When a roadway has been divided into clearly marked lanes for traffic, drivers of vehicles shall obey the following regulations: a. A vehicle shall normally be driven in the lane nearest the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway when that lane is available for travel, except when overtaking another vehicle or in preparation for a left turn."

Victims of negligent drivers would be well advised to speak with an experienced injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the ongoing investigation. At-fault drivers may be held liable for losses such as medical bills, time away from work, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

The experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein help victims of negligent drivers get fair and full compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car crash, please contact us at (609) 240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

A 63-year-old Newark man was injured after a steel beam dangling from a construction crane on the New Jersey Turnpike swung and lopped off the top of his van. According to a news report in The Times of Trenton, the New Jersey construction accident occurred on the turnpike just south of Interchange 8. State troopers say construction workers who were working on the turnpike-widening project were trying to lift a steal beam with a crane. The force of the impact cut off the top of the man's Econoline van, causing it to overturn. He was left with facial lacerations, but his injuries are not considered to be life-threatening. Officials are investigating the cause of this accident.

Construction crane accidents can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. According to the web site Craneaccidents.com, there were 303 crane accidents in the United States in 2009, in which 197 people died. Crane accidents may be caused by operator error or negligence, a defective or malfunctioning crane, weather or wind conditions, and improper loading.

If a "bystander" or passerby is injured in a construction crane accident, the construction company and/or the agency that is undertaking the construction can be held liable for the victim's injuries. A number of questions may arise in such cases. Did the workers load the crane correctly? Was there a violation of safety procedures at the construction site, which caused or contributed to the incident? Were the workers properly trained and supervised?

Injured victims of crane accidents, whether they are construction workers or members of the public, should contact an experienced lawyer who will remain on their side, fight for their rights, and ensure that they are fairly and fully compensated for their injuries and losses. The skilled New Jersey crane accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully represented individuals and families who have been harmed by someone else's negligence. Please contact us at (609) 240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and case evaluation.

Several people were injured in an Atlantic County car accident that resulted in a female passenger getting trapped in one of the vehicles. According to a WPVI news report, the injury accident occurred near Ocean Heights Avenue and Blackman Road in Egg Harbor Township. Officials have not released information about how the collision occurred. The extent of the victims' injuries is also not known yet. Emergency workers rescued a woman from inside one of the damaged vehicles with the Jaws of Life. An investigation is ongoing.

According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, there were 10,388 reported car accidents in Atlantic County in the year 2010. That number reflects a slight decrease from the 10,685 accidents that occurred in 2009 and the 10,508 accidents that happened in 2008. Of the 10,388 Atlantic County car accidents that occurred in 2010, 2,745 resulted in injuries.

In car accident injury cases, it is important to determine fault and liability. If the crash was the result of negligence or wrongdoing, the auto accident injury victim can hold the at-fault party accountable for the crash with the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages and losses resulting from the accident from the responsible party.

The experienced Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help the victims of New Jersey car accidents obtain the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you have suffered an injury in a car crash, please call (609) 240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options at absolutely no cost.

There is a wide range of injuries that victims can suffer in a New Jersey car accident. Often, survivors of serious injury accidents struggle to regain the physical abilities they had before the accident. Unfortunately, some victims may suffer injuries that could lead to permanent disabilities, which can negatively affect their quality of life. In such cases, victims would be well advised to obtain more information about pursuing their legal rights.

Permanent disabilities include injuries and illnesses from which the victim will never fully recover. Examples of the most severe permanent disabilities that can occur in an auto accident include amputations, head injuries that lead to irreversible brain damage, and spinal cord injuries. These types of devastating injuries often make it impossible for a victim to return to his or her "pre-accident state." It is also possible that the victim may never be able to work again or provide for his or her family.

There is disability coverage available through the government for individuals who are unable to work because of a permanent disability. If the serious injuries were caused by a negligent driver, there may also be compensation available through a personal injury claim.

A personal injury claim is a civil lawsuit that allows the injured victim to pursue financial compensation for their losses from the at-fault driver. The claimant must prove that he or she suffered a loss, that the other person was negligent in some way, and that the negligent party's actions led to the victim's losses. In such cases, compensation may be available for the resulting medical bills, lost wages, cost of rehabilitation services, and other related damages.

The experienced Princeton car accident injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of dealing with permanent disability claims. We know how to get injured victims and their families the help and support they need. To discuss your legal options at absolutely no cost, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040.

At least two people were injured in a New Jersey car accident, which officials say, was the result of a motorist running a stop sign at a street intersection. According to a news report in The Asbury Park Press, the car crash occurred at Squankum Yellowbrook Road and West Farms Road in Howell. Officials say a 78-year-old Freehold man drove a car through the intersection and crashed into a pickup truck driven by a 47-year-old man from Toms River. Both drivers sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the car was issued a summons for failure to stop or yield.

New Jersey motorists are required by law to obey all traffic signals and traffic safety devices. According to N.J.S.A. 39:4-120.9: "The driver of a motor vehicle shall observe and obey an official traffic control device erected at a public-private intersection in the same manner as those erected at any other intersection." Drivers who fail to obey a traffic control device, in addition to facing citations, may also be held civilly liable for the damages they cause.

Victims of negligent drivers should speak with a personal injury lawyer to help them pursue financial compensation for their car crash injuries. In such cases, at-fault drivers can be held accountable for medical bills, the cost of rehabilitation services, lost wages and other related damages.

A skilled NJ auto accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein can hold negligent drivers accountable for the damages they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a complimentary consultation.

An Ohio State University student was killed in a New Jersey car accident after the vehicle in which he was a passenger, careened off the roadway and crashed. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal car accident occurred along Interstate 78 near exit 17 in Clinton Township. Officials say a rental SUV left the roadway before crashing into several trees and a streetlight. A male passenger was killed at the scene of the crash and two men and two women were hospitalized. All occupants were reportedly between 19 and 21 years old. It is unclear at this time what caused the crash, but officials say based on preliminary investigations that fatigue may have been a contributing factor.

Fatigued driving is when a motorist is sleepy or has actually fallen asleep while operating a vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 100,000 reported crashes each year result from fatigue. These estimated accidents result in approximately 1,500 deaths and 71,000 injuries nationwide. Many believe that these numbers are conservative because it is often difficult to prove that a motorist was tired or exhausted.

The family of someone killed in a single vehicle crash would be well advised to retain the services of a skilled New Jersey personal injury lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights are protected. If it is determined that the driver was negligent in some way, financial compensation may be available for the victim's family.

The experienced New Jersey auto accident injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of upholding the rights of injured victims and their families. If you have suffered an injury or have lost someone you love in a New Jersey car accident, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

At least three people were recently injured in a New Jersey car accident after a vehicle left the roadway and struck a pole. According to a WPVI news report, the injury accident occurred along Hurffville Road in Deptford. Officials say the driver lost control of the vehicle before it veered off the road. The driver and two passengers, all believed to be in their 20s, suffered serious injuries in the crash. It is unclear what caused the driver to lose control or if anyone will be cited for the crash.

Any time there is a single-vehicle crash there are a number of questions that investigators need to answer. What caused the vehicle to veer out of control? Was the driver speeding, drowsy, under the influence, or otherwise negligent? Did a second vehicle force the car off the roadway before leaving the scene of the crash? Was a dangerous roadway condition a factor in the accident? Did a defective auto part or mechanical malfunction contribute to the crash? Victims of single-vehicle crashes would be well advised to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney who will stay abreast of the ongoing investigation and help determine fault and liability for the crash.

An experienced New Jersey auto accident injury attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein knows how to protect the rights of injured victims of car accidents and how to hold at-fault parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a New Jersey car crash, please call our offices today at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case assessment.

With the holiday season comes an increased risk of DUI collisions, drowsy driving, and dangerous roadway conditions in New Jersey. However, there are a number of steps you can take to help decrease your chances of being involved in a car accident during this holiday season.

If you plan on consuming alcohol this holiday season, remember that it only takes a couple of drinks to impair your cognitive abilities. All drivers would be well advised to assign a designated driver, call a taxi, or simply spend the night at the location of the event until it is safe to travel in the morning. It is a common mistake to assume that a couple drinks of eggnog or wine is not enough to affect one's ability to drive. This is a common error in judgment that leads to numerous injury crashes during the holiday season.

Many New Jersey residents drive long hours to visit friends and family during the holidays. It is always a good idea to not travel too late at night or while drowsy. If you do choose to drive late at night, it may be in your best interest to have a wide awake passenger in the front seat keeping you company and making sure you are alert and focused. Studies have shown that drowsy and fatigued driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving.

Last but not least, remember that New Jersey roadways are prone to icy and wet conditions during the holidays. Even if the ice is not visible, there is the potential for the conditions to cause your vehicle to slide out of control. Remember to leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you and give yourself plenty of time to slow down.

The experienced Princeton car crash lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 to schedule your free and comprehensive consultation.

A 45-year-old man was killed in a New Jersey car accident when the armored truck he was driving veered out of control. According to an Associated Press news report, the car crash occurred along the New Jersey Turnpike in Woodbridge. Officials say the Garda Security International truck crashed into a guardrail and overturned. The 45-year-old driver from Jamaica, New York was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. A second 45-year-old man was rescued from the vehicle and transported to a nearby hospital with unknown injuries. It is unclear what caused the work vehicle to veer out of control.

Any time there is an injury accident involving a work vehicle, it is important to determine what caused the crash. Did the vehicle owner fail to properly maintain the vehicle? Was the employee properly trained and licensed to drive the vehicle? Many vehicles that are used for work, such as vans and trucks, have a top-heavy design that makes them prone to rollover accidents. Did the design of the vehicle contribute to the injuries suffered? Did the safety devices such as seat restraint systems fail to keep the occupants in the vehicle?

The family of a car accident victim may have it in their best interest to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney. Compensation may be available for their terrible loss through workers’ compensation death benefits and/or through a wrongful death claim if negligence was a contributing factor in the crash.

The knowledgeable Princeton fatal motor vehicle accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history and a successful track record of helping injured victims and their families. If you have been injured or have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car accident, please call us at (609) 240-0040 to schedule your free and comprehensive consultation.

Three men, aged 40, 34, and 32, were injured in a New Jersey car accident that occurred after a tire blew out on the Ford van they were in. According to a My Central Jersey news report, the rollover accident occurred on the New Jersey Turnpike in East Brunswick. Officials say the driver's side rear tire blew out causing the van to flip across three lanes of traffic. The 40-year-old driver and the 34-year-old front seat passenger had to be extricated from the vehicle and have been listed in fair condition. The 32-year-old back seat passenger sustained minor shoulder pain. It is not clear what caused the tire to blow out.

When a tire blows out on the roadway, there is the potential for the vehicle to veer out of control or even roll over. In such cases, vehicles that are prone to rollover accidents like vans, pickups, and SUVs are particularly dangerous. Victims of these types of accidents would be well advised to preserve the damaged tire and vehicle for a thorough inspection to determine if a defective auto part or mechanical malfunction caused the crash.

To help prevent blown tire accidents, New Jersey motorists would be well advised to check on the amount of wear on their tires. Low tread and uneven wear are signs of potential danger. Drivers also have it in their best interest to search recent tire recalls posted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to see if their tires are on the recall list for defects.

The skilled personal injury lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long and successful track record of representing car accident victims in New Jersey. If you or someone you know has been harmed in a New Jersey car accident, please do not hesitate to call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

A 9-year-old child was recently injured in a Newark car accident involving a vehicle in a police pursuit. According to a news report in The Star Ledger, the serious injury accident occurred in Newark's South Ward neighborhood near Clinton Avenue and Bergen Street. Officials say a white pickup truck drove through a red light and struck a sedan. A 9-year-old passenger in the four-door sedan was ejected when the vehicle struck a pole.

New Jersey police pursuit cases can be complex and challenging to handle. N.J.S.A. 59:5-2(b) provides immunity to police officers involved in a pursuit of a suspect. This does not, however, allow police officers to disregard public safety or act recklessly.

In addition, drivers whose negligence causes an accident can be held liable for the damages they cause. Examples of driver negligence include speeding, driving while intoxicated, failing to yield the right of way, driving distracted, and failing to obey traffic control devices. In cases involving serious injuries, the at-fault driver can be held responsible for losses such as medical bills, hospitalization, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The skilled auto accident injury lawyers in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to hold negligent, careless, and reckless drivers accountable for the injuries they cause. To discuss your legal rights with a skilled car accident attorney at no cost, please call our Princeton offices at (609) 240-0040.

A woman and a New Jersey State Trooper were recently injured in a three-car collision. According to a news report in The Republic, the car accident occurred on Route 46 near the Budd Lake firehouse in Mount Olive Township. The patrol car ended up off the roadway and the woman's vehicle was crushed under the axle of a work truck. The trooper sustained a concussion in the accident and the woman suffered broken bone injuries. The cause of the collision is under investigation and it is not yet clear if anyone will be cited for the crash.

Any time there are more than two vehicles involved in an injury accident, there is the potential for a complicated claim process. In such cases, investigators will have to determine which driver was at-fault, if speed, distracted driving, or recklessness was a contributing factor, and if any of the motorists should be cited for the crash. In accidents involving negligence or wrongdoing, the at-fault motorist can be held liable for the injuries suffered.

In such cases, injured victims can seek compensation to cover medical bills, hospitalization, lost wages, the cost of physical therapy, and other related damages. In cases involving multiple drivers, there is an increased risk of claims being denied and insurance companies passing the blame. A skilled car accident attorney will protect the rights of the victim while ensuring that the negligent parties are held accountable.

The reputed auto accident attorneys in NJ at Lependorf & Silverstein have a successful track record of obtaining the highest possible compensation for injured victims and their families. We have extensive experience dealing with hostile insurance companies. Please call our offices today at (609) 240-0040 before you talk to an insurance adjuster.

In Part Four of our auto accident prevention blog series, we discuss how practicing safe and defensive driving habits is the key to staying safe on the road and decreasing your chances of being involved in a New Jersey car accident. Defensive driving is commonly defined as going beyond mastery of the rules of the road and anticipating dangerous situations. Skilled defensive drivers remain focused and cautious and they make it a habit to not assume that other drivers will do the right thing.

Drivers can drive defensively by staying attentive and limiting distractions. Not only should cell phones be turned off before getting on the road, but passengers should also make sure that they do not distract the driver. Drivers that have to use the phone, turn to talk to a passenger, check their navigational device, or read a map should pull over first so it is safe to do so. It is critical that you give the road your undivided attention.

Remember the basics you learned as a teenager when you started to drive. After many years of safe travel, it is common for drivers to take their safety for granted. It only takes one moment of distracted driving or negligence to result in a serious injury accident. Motorists must remember the basics they learned in driver's education involving right-of-way laws (never assume another driver will properly yield), traffic safety devices (always wear a seatbelt), and traffic control devices (always remember to obey stop signs and red lights). If you have a teenager in the household, remind your son or daughter of the basics of safe travel on a regular basis.

A skilled New Jersey motor vehicle accident attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein can help injured victims and their families obtain the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one is ever involved in an injury accident, please do not hesitate to call our New Jersey offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

As Part Three of our auto accident prevention blog series, this blog will discuss the causes of vehicle accidents that drivers least expect. The dangers of drunk driving, distracted driving, and exceeding the speed limit are well known; however, there are many other causes of New Jersey car accidents that motorists would be well advised to avoid, as well. An accident is an event that happens unexpectedly. As drivers, although we hope for the best, we understand that we are at risk every time we get behind the wheel. Here are some types of accidents drivers least expect to encounter.

One unexpected cause of New Jersey car accidents involves wildlife on the roadway. Autumn is the time of year when drivers are most likely to strike deer in New Jersey. These types of accidents may be difficult to prevent, but drivers can help avoid striking animals by staying focused and attentive with their eyes on the roadway at all times.

Fatigued and drowsy driving is another cause of car accidents. It is important for all drivers to understand that that this is often as dangerous as drunk driving. If you find it difficult to keep your eyes open while driving, you should immediately pull over and rest before you get back on the road. Individuals with sleep apnea or who are up late driving are more likely to close their eyes, nod off, or lose focus than well-rested drivers. Drowsy drivers put themselves and others on the roadway at risk.

Other unexpected causes include dangerous roadway conditions and mechanical malfunctions. All drivers have it in their best interests to check their vehicles' tire pressure, routinely change their oil, make sure their brakes are in proper working order, and replace their headlights and taillights promptly. During rainy or cold weather, it is also important to ensure that your windshield wipers are working properly.

The skilled Princeton car crash injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long and successful track record of getting injured victims of New Jersey car accidents the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Part Four of our car accident prevention blog series will address the many ways to keep you and your family safe on the road.

This is Part Two in a four-part blog series where we will discuss car crash prevention tips to help you and your family travel safely.

Not all car accidents are preventable, especially if they occur as a result of someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. However, there are several preventive steps we can take in order to avoid car accidents that can result in serious injuries or even tragic fatalities.

Here are some easy-to-follow tips.

Driving Near Trucks
If you are driving near a large truck, keep a safe distance and avoid lingering in the truck's blind spots. Truck drivers have difficulty seeing immediately in front of their truck, directly behind the trailer, and near the back of the trailer on either side. Driving defensively and assuming that a truck driver cannot see you will help keep you from being involved in a New Jersey truck accident.

Proper Speed
Adjusting your speed for the conditions on the roadway is another important way to avoid being in an accident. When the roadway is wet, icy, or slippery it will be more difficult to slow down or control your vehicle. Under normal conditions, obey the speed limit. But it is important that drivers adjust their speed depending on weather, roadway, and traffic conditions.

Vehicle Maintenance
Another way to help reduce the chances of being involved in a car accident is to properly inspect and maintain your vehicle. Make sure you have properly working brakes and tires. Finding a mechanic whom you trust to regularly inspect your car for potential problems is key to preventing car crashes.

If you or a loved one is ever injured in a car accident, please contact an auto accident lawyer in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein at (609) 240-0040. Our experienced law team not only fights for your rights and helps you secure fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses, but also help ensure that the at-fault parties are held accountable.

Visit our blog again for more on auto accident prevention tips to help keep you and your family safe!

This is Part One in a four-part blog series where we will discuss car crash prevention tips to help you and your family travel safely.

The AAA Safety Foundation estimates that approximately 42.5 million Americans will travel this Thanksgiving, reflecting a 4 percent increase from last year. The group also estimates that 90 percent of all Thanksgiving travelers will choose an automobile for their mode of transportation. This means there will be a significant increase in the number of cars on New Jersey's roadways. Families taking to the roadway this Thanksgiving would be well advised to follow a number of safety tips to decrease their chances of being involved in a New Jersey car accident.

Before even getting into your car for a long trip, check the air pressure in your tires and to make sure they are not aged, worn, or bald. There are several questions you could put on a checklist to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the road. When was the last oil change done? Are the windshield wipers, taillights, turn signals, and headlights properly working? Are any of your passengers planning on packing something that will obstruct your view? Are your brakes in proper working condition? Do you have an emergency supply of food, water, and blankets in your vehicle in case you get stranded? These seemingly minor details can make all the difference.

When driving this holiday weekend, remember that there is an increased chance of drunk driving accidents on the roadway. You should keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you and if you see a vehicle swerving or see someone driving erratically, you should pull over and notify the police. If you have consumed alcohol during a gathering or party, do not drive. Take a cab or designate a sober driver to take you home.

The car accident injury lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, please call our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

Visit our blog again for more driving safety tips!

Some of the most devastating New Jersey car accidents involve head-on collisions, which are often the result of drivers who allow their vehicles to drift across double yellow lines. Those responsible may be held accountable for the injuries they cause. Victims of such accidents would be well advised to discuss their legal rights and options with a skilled personal injury lawyer who has experience handling similar cases.

According to the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety's 2010 Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash report, there were 55 head-on collisions in New Jersey involving vehicles traveling in opposing lanes of traffic. During that same year, an additional 19 head-on collisions involved vehicles making a left turn or a U-turn.

Some of the most common causes of wrong-way accidents include fatigued driving, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. A motorist only has to take his or her eyes off the roadway for a moment for his or her vehicle to cross over a double yellow line or center divider and cause a major injury from a head-on crash. In such cases, the negligent driver can be held liable for the resulting damages. Head-on collisions often occur at high speeds, which lead to devastating injuries for vehicle occupants.

Drivers responsible for causing a head-on collision can be held financially liable for losses such as hospitalization, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other related damages. Victims of New Jersey head-on collisions would be well advised to discuss their case with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.

The skilled car accident attorneys in NJ at Lependorf & Silverstein have years of experience handling cases involving head-on collisions in New Jersey. Our reputed personal injury lawyers know how to hold at-fault motorists accountable for the injuries they cause while protecting the rights of injured victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision in New Jersey, please contact our law offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.

New Jersey and other northeastern states have recently been hit by a rare October snow storm. New Jersey's snowbound roadways have seen a number of injury and fatal car accidents over these last few days. As we head into winter, it is a good time to refresh our memories about dealing with adverse weather and unsafe roadway conditions and the steps that New Jersey motorists can take to drive safely in cold and wintry conditions.

First and foremost, you should never get on the road without first clearing your windows of all ice and snow. Visibility is the key to driving safely during the winter. In fact, it may not be wise to drive at all during a winter storm. If you can avoid going out in inclement weather, please do so. Check the weather conditions before getting in your car. If you do have to drive, remember to keep your headlights on, stay on roadways that get cleared often, and keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

All motorists should remember that it is not always possible to see ice on the roadway. It is also important to make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter. Brakes should be checked, defrosters should be tested, wiper blades should be replaced, and anti-freeze levels should be monitored. Also, drivers should not allow their gas tank to get too close to empty during the coldest nights of the year.

The experienced NJ car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein hope you and yours stay safe during this upcoming winter season. If you or a loved one is injured in a New Jersey car accident as a result of someone else's negligence, please contact our law offices at (609) 240-0040 to better understand your legal rights and options.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. No amount of training and supervision can prevent all New Jersey car accidents involving teenage drivers, but there are a number of steps that parents can take to lessen the chances of their children suffering an injury in a car crash.

According to NHTSA, research shows that specific types of behavior often contribute to these tragedies. The inexperience and immaturity of teen drivers can be aggravated by speeding, drunk driving, disuse of seat belts, distracted driving (cell phones, loud music, teenage passengers), drowsy or fatigued driving, driving at night, and drug use. Therefore, eliminating these risk factors will likely decrease the possibility of a serious injury accident.

Teen drivers should not be allowed to drive with more than one passenger because of the increased risk of distractions. Additionally, all young motorists should learn early on to always wear a seatbelt and never use a cell phone while driving. Parents would also be well advised to monitor how late the teenager is allowed to drive and whether or not he or she has access to alcohol.

There are no guarantees that a teen driver will be accident-free, but safe driving habits can greatly decrease the likelihood of him or her getting into an accident. Often, teenagers learn from the examples set by their parents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, the experienced Princeton car accident lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein can help. Please call us at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Keeping your car in proper working order is an important part of staying safe on the roadway. All New Jersey drivers would be well advised to service their vehicles according to the maintenance schedule in their operator's manual and check the condition of their tires every month. A number of New Jersey car accidents involve driver error or negligence, but there are also many accidents every year that can be prevented by proper car maintenance.

Drivers should routinely check their tires. Motorists who consult their owner's manual to determine the proper tire pressure have a greater chance of avoiding tire failure on the roadway. While checking the tire pressure, it is also a good idea to look for signs of leaking, worn spots, uneven wear and tear, and low treads. Always know the age of your tires as older tires are more likely to blow out, deflate, or shred. Tire blowouts or tire tread separation can result in devastating car crashes.

Another car part that should never be taken for granted is your windshield wipers. These should be changed as often as twice a year. Having proper visibility during adverse weather conditions will greatly reduce the chances of an accident.

Drivers should also carefully monitor the effectiveness of their brakes. Brakes that are not in proper working condition can cause devastating highway and intersection accidents. Remember, drivers who cause accidents because they fail to properly maintain their vehicles may be held liable for the damages they cause.

The experienced New Jersey auto accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of protecting the rights of their clients. If you or a loved one has been hurt by someone else's negligence, call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation.

Four teenagers were injured in a New Jersey car accident that occurred as they were traveling to Gloucester Catholic High School. According to The Gloucester County Times, the injury accident occurred on Almonesson Road in Gloucester Township. Officials say the vehicle hit a curb and crashed into a utility pole. The four occupants, who were between the ages of 15 and 17, were extricated from the wrecked car and transported to a Camden hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

New Jersey car crash injury victims who were passengers in a crash often worry that they will hurt their friends if they attempt to pursue financial compensation for their suffering. It is important that injured victims and their families remember that the insurance policy of the at-fault driver will cover most of the damages suffered. In cases where the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance, compensation may be available through the uninsured/underinsured motorist clause of the victim's own insurance policy.

A personal injury claim is a civil lawsuit that allows injured victims to pursue financial compensation for the damages they have suffered in a crash. Losses that may be included in a personal injury claim include hospital expenses, lost wages, therapy fees, and physical suffering. Anyone with questions regarding how to seek fair and full compensation following an injury accident would be well advised to speak with a skilled personal injury attorney.

An experienced car accident attorney in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein has a long and successful track record of handling personal injury claims in New Jersey. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact our offices at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation.

Five teenage girls, whose ages ranged from 15 to 19, were injured in a New Jersey car accident after the SUV in which they were traveling struck a pole. According to a Fox news report, the serious injury accident occurred in Jersey City. The 21-year-old male driver of the SUV fled the scene of the crash on foot. It is not clear from the report why he lost control of the SUV. Of the injured passengers, two sustained life-threatening injuries and three others were treated and later released from the hospital. The male driver had a suspended license and faces charges for leaving the scene of a serious injury accident.

Passengers who are injured in a New Jersey car accident may be reluctant to pursue financial compensation for fear of hurting the driver who may be a friend or family member. It is important to remember that most settlements offered through insurance claims and civil litigation comes out of the at-fault driver's insurance policy.

Injured passengers in New Jersey have the right to pursue financial compensation for a number of different losses. Damages that are typically covered through civil litigation include medical bills, lost earnings, hospitalization, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The experienced Princeton auto accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of successfully helping injured passengers get the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you have been injured in a New Jersey car accident, please contact our offices at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

A 16-year-old girl was killed in a New Jersey car accident that may have involved a driver exceeding the speed limit. According to a news report in The Jersey Journal, the fatal car crash occurred on West Side Avenue near 75th Street in North Bergen. The victim was the passenger in a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu that veered out of control, hit a utility pole, and struck a tree. Authorities believe that excessive speed may have been a factor in this fatal crash. The 16-year-old passenger was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. The 20-year-old driver from Union City sustained non-life-threatening injuries. It is unclear if he will face any charges in connection with this fatal crash.

Speed is a common factor in motor vehicle collisions. Speeding drivers are more likely to lose control of their vehicle, and also have less time to react to traffic conditions around them. New Jersey Statute 39:4-98 requires all motorists to obey the posted speed limits. Drivers who violate NJS 39:4-96 by driving recklessly may be held criminally and civilly liable for their actions.

The family of a deceased car accident victim would be well advised to seek the counsel of an experienced wrongful death attorney. Compensation may be available for damages including medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of any future income.

The law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein handles all types of auto accident cases in New Jersey. Our skilled Princeton wrongful death car accident attorneys know how to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions. If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car accident, please contact us at 609-240-0040 for a no-cost consultation.

A 6-month-old boy and a 23-year-old female live-in domestic assistant were killed in a New Jersey car accident involving a Pontiac Sunbird and a 2007 Jeep Cherokee on September 6. According to a news report in The Star Ledger, the fatal car crash occurred on Church Street in Aberdeen. Investigators are still trying to figure out what caused the two vehicles to collide. In addition to the two fatally injured victims, a 3-year-old boy was injured as well. The three occupants of the Jeep, a 30-year-old man and his twin 3-year-old sons, were not injured in the accident.

According to The New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 4,483 total injury crashes in Monmouth County in the year 2010. During that same year there were 66,790 injury crashes throughout New Jersey.

Anytime there is a fatal New Jersey collision, it is crucial that investigators correctly determine who was responsible for the crash. At-fault motorists may be held liable for losses including medical bills, funeral expenses and lost future income if the victim's family chooses to file a wrongful death claim. It is unfortunately common for at-fault drivers to deny responsibility for a serious injury car crash and for insurance companies to deny adequate coverage for victims' families. In such cases, civil litigation may be the only way for the family to get the support they need.

The experienced Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein offer their condolences to anyone who has lost a loved one in a fatal crash. Please contact one of our skilled New Jersey auto accident attorneys at 609-240-0040 to better understand your legal rights and options.

Several people suffered injuries in a New Jersey car accident involving five vehicles on September 8, according to a news report in The Bergen County Record. The five-car pileup occurred on westbound Route 80 just past the Market Street exit in Paterson. It is not clear exactly what caused the crash or how many people were hurt. According to the report, the injuries suffered were not life-threatening.

There are many questions that must be asked following a multiple vehicle crash. Did one of the motorists violate New Jersey Statute 39:4-89 by following too closely behind another vehicle? Were any of the drivers reckless, careless or speeding? Did one of the motorists cause the crash by making a dangerous or improper lane change? Did distracted driving play a part in the crash? Negligent drivers can be held liable for the injuries and damages they cause.

It is important that anyone involved in a crash seek auto accident legal guidance from a skilled personal injury attorney. In cases where several victims are involved, there is the potential for insurance companies to pass the blame and for negligent drivers to deny responsibility. Drivers involved in such collisions should not accept a settlement from an insurance company without first discussing their claim with an attorney. By rushing to settle, injured victims will lose the opportunity to get fair and full compensation.

The experienced Princeton personal injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of handling car accident cases involving multiple vehicles. We make sure that our clients get the compensation they need to cover losses such as medical expenses and lost wages. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, please contact us today at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

A driver was injured in a car accident recently that resulted in the vehicle overturning. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the accident occurred at the intersection of Hooper and Oak avenues in Toms River. The report does not specify if a second vehicle was involved or the cause of the crash. The victim was taken by helicopter to the Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune. An investigation into the New Jersey rollover accident is ongoing.

There are a number of traffic violations that are often linked to serious accidents. Drivers violating New Jersey Statute 39:4-50 by driving while intoxicated have a greater chance or running a red light or failing to yield the right-of-way. Drivers violating 39:4-125 by making an illegal U-turn can cause catastrophic car accidents by turning into oncoming traffic. Drivers who run a red light or stop sign at an intersection may be cited by the authorities for violating New Jersey Statute 39:4-120.9. Such violations can also result in car accidents that can cause victims to suffer catastrophic injuries or even death.

Negligent drivers may be held criminally and civilly liable for their actions. Victims of rollover accidents in New Jersey would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced lawyer who will not only look into whether there were negligent drivers involved, but also whether a defective auto or defectively designed vehicle caused or contributed to the accident and/or injuries.

The rollover accident attorneys in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein handle all types of vehicle accident cases. We help our clients pursue compensation for losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and hospitalization. To discuss what your potential claim may be worth, call our law offices today at 609-240-0040. Consultations are always free.

A 21-year-old woman was recently killed in a car crash when her white Acura RSX veered off the roadway. According to The News of Cumberland County, the fatal accident occurred on Ramah Road in Lawrence Township. The Acura crossed the centerline, went off the roadway, struck a wooden pole, spun around, struck a tree, and ended up on its side. It is not clear what caused the single-vehicle crash but there were no signs of braking at the scene of the accident.

There are a number of causes of single-vehicle crashes and some of them do not involve negligent driving. The driver may be at fault if they were speeding, fatigued, distracted, or drunk. Circumstances in which a single-vehicle accident victim was not solely responsible for the crash include a dangerous roadway condition, a defective auto part like a faulty brake system, or the involvement of another vehicle that left the scene after the crash.

Anyone who has lost a loved one in a single-vehicle accident in New Jersey would be well-advised to preserve the damaged vehicle for a thorough inspection and to contact an experienced attorney. The vehicle should be examined by an expert for product defects, malfunctions, design flaws, and other evidence that may indicate negligence on the part of someone other than the deceased driver.

The experienced New Jersey car accident wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein are committed to helping families obtain fair and full compensation for the loss of their loved one in accidents due to negligence. Call our law offices today at 609-240-0040 to learn more about the legal options available to you if you have lost a loved one in a car crash in New Jersey. We always offer free consultations and comprehensive case evaluations.

A 55-year-old man was killed in a car accident recently after his vehicle slammed into a pole. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal crash occurred on Deliah Road near Kingsley Drive in Egg Harbor Township after the man lost control of his 1991 Buick LaSabre, causing the vehicle to leave the roadway and striking a pole. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of this fatal crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a report investigating the many causes of single-vehicle run-off road (ROR) crashes. Driver error was a strong commonality in many of the crashes investigated. Drivers who were drunk or speeding were found to have a much greater chance of driving off the roadway. Driver behavior was not, however, the only contributing factor in many of the accidents studied.

The report stated that run-off road crashes are more likely to occur in adverse weather conditions and during nighttime. A single-vehicle fatal crash involved a vehicle going off the roadway 90.2 percent of the time when the car was at a curve and only 62.1 percent of the time on a straight roadway. This means that the design of the roadway can contribute to a crash as well. Any time a crash occurs on a curve it must be determined if the roadway was designed poorly and if it was inherently dangerous.

There are many potential causes of a single-vehicle car crash in New Jersey and the driver is not always at fault. The family of someone killed in such an accident would be well-advised to preserve the vehicle in tact so it can be carefully examined by an expert for product defects, malfunctions, and other evidence in order to determine liability.

The experienced New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully handled numerous car accident cases on behalf of injured clients and families of deceased car accident victims. If you have been injured in a car accident, or, if you have lost a loved one in a crash, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

There are a number of steps that someone injured in a New Jersey car accident should take to ensure that their rights are protected. The authorities should be notified immediately following a crash and the injured victim should exchange information with any other parties involved and witnesses to the collision. The injured victim should also seek medical attention to increase the chances of a full recovery and establish a medical record of the injuries suffered. In addition, victims would be well-advised to keep a journal about the crash.

It is easy to forget important details about a collision. Taking notes about where the crash occurred, how it happened, how fast the vehicles were travelling, and the time of the accident can prove useful down the road. Once the specific details surrounding the incident are written down, the journal should become more personal.

Medical bills and lost wages are not the only kinds of losses that may be taken into consideration during a civil lawsuit. Injured victims of negligent drivers may also seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as physical pain and mental anguish. Keeping a daily journal about the struggles the injuries have caused can help prove the extent of suffering endured by the victim. Are you no longer able to do physical activities you once loved? Do you feel pain as you perform normal, daily activities? Write it down and be specific.

The reputed New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein help get our clients the compensation they need and rightfully deserve after they are involved in an accident caused by another person’s negligence. To learn how we can provide you with the legal representation you need during this difficult time in your life, call our law offices at 609-240-0040.

A man was injured recently when his vehicle overturned after crashing into another vehicle. According to a news report in The Times, the car crash occurred at Princeton Avenue and Spruce Street in Trenton. The collision between the two vehicles resulted in the man being suspended upside down in his overturned car. Rescue crews were able to extricate the victim and he was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. It does not appear that anyone else was injured in the New Jersey car crash. It is not clear what led to the collision or if the authorities intend to cite either driver for a traffic violation.

There are a number of questions that must be asked following an accident. What caused the two vehicles to collide? Did one of the motorists fail to obey a traffic control device? Did the design of the vehicle make it prone to overturning? Did safety devices in the vehicle such as airbags or seatbelts function the way they were supposed to function in the event of a crash? Did the roof collapse on the occupants? Was either motorist distracted or exceeding the speed limit? The answers to such questions may help determine who should be held civilly liable for the injuries and losses sustained by victims in the accident.

Injured victims of car accidents in New Jersey may seek financial compensation from the at-fault party by filing a personal injury claim. Losses that can be compensated include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The reputed New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have an excellent track record of helping victims who have been injured in an accident obtain fair and full compensation for all their injuries, damages, and losses. Call our law offices at 609-240-0040 today to discuss your legal rights and options if you have been injured due to another’s negligence.

Drunk driving is a serious problem throughout the United States and in New Jersey. Each year, a number of fatalities and injuries can be attributed to traffic accidents that involve alcohol and/or drugs. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs have less control over their motor functions and they are more likely to drive in an erratic or reckless manner. Consequently, the injuries suffered in drunk driving accident are often catastrophic or fatal.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the 37,261 traffic fatalities in the United States in 2008, 13,846 were alcohol-related. That means nationally, 37 percent of all fatal car accidents that year involved a drunk driver. New Jersey's average is slightly below the national average. In 2008, 590 people were killed in car accidents in New Jersey, with 33 percent of those fatalities involving alcohol. Additionally, 26 percent of all fatal car crashes in the state that year involved a driver who had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-50, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 percent or higher. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol may be held criminally liable for their actions by the authorities and civilly liable for the damages suffered if the injured victim or the deceased victim's family chooses to file a civil lawsuit following a car crash in New Jersey.

The skilled car accident lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein help victims who have been injured by a motorist who was driving drunk or otherwise negligent receive the compensation they need and deserve. To discuss whether you have a valid claim against a driver or to find out how much your claim may be worth, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040. We always offer free consultations to injured victims and their families.

Two drivers were killed in a head-on car accident in Salem County recently. According to Today’s Sunbeam, the fatal car crash occurred on Route 45 south of Lincoln Road in Pilesgrove Township. Both drivers were killed when an Acura Integra and an older Chevrolet pickup truck collided head-on. There were no passengers in either vehicle. It is not clear at this time which vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic or what may have caused this tragic collision.

It is often challenging to determine the cause of a head-on collision. In any similar car accident, there are a number of questions that must be asked. Was one of the motorists violating New Jersey Statute 39:4-86 by crossing into oncoming traffic to pass another vehicle? Did a dangerous roadway condition force one of the drivers out of their lane of traffic? Did a motorist lose control because of a defective auto part? Did fatigued, distracted, or drunk driving play a factor in the crash? Drivers whose negligence results in a head-on collision may be held liable for the damages suffered in the crash.

The family of a deceased New Jersey car accident victim would be well-advised to seek the guidance of an experienced lawyer to better understand their legal rights and options. In some cases, compensation may be available by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. Families may pursue compensation for losses such as medical expenses, funeral costs, and lost future income.

The experienced car crash lawyers in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of successfully helping injured victims and their families receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident that involved a negligent driver, call our law offices at 609-240-0040 today.

A 22-year-old woman was killed and six others were injured in a car accident recently. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal crash occurred at mile marker 111.3 on the Garden State Parkway in Middletown. A black Acura carrying five people crossed into the center lane and collided into a Dodge Durango carrying two people. Both vehicles ended up crashing into the left guardrail. A passenger in the Acura was killed and four other occupants were injured. A driver and passenger in the Durango were injured as well. It is unclear what caused the fatal collision or if anyone will be cited or arrested.

When passengers are injured or killed in a New Jersey car accident they may be left wondering how to pursue compensation. It is common for injured victims to worry that their friend or family member who was driving the vehicle may be held liable for the damages suffered. It is important that injured victims and their families remember that the insurance policy of the at-fault driver will cover most of the damages suffered. In cases where the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance, compensation may be available through the uninsured/underinsured motorist clause of the victim's own insurance policy.

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that allows the family of someone killed in a car crash to seek financial compensation for their losses. A personal injury claim allows a surviving injured victim to seek compensation for losses such as medical bills, pain and suffering, and time away from work. Anytime someone is injured in a car accident in New Jersey, it may be in their best interests to seek legal guidance from a skilled attorney.

The reputed Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a proven track record of successfully handling serious injury and wrongful death cases in New Jersey. We fight for our clients' rights and ensure that they receive fair and full compensation for all injuries, damages, and losses. To discuss your potential claim, call our law offices at 609-240-0040 today.

Early estimates for statistics on fatal highway car accidents in New Jersey show that fatalities are on the rise. According to NJ.com, there has been a 9.8 percent increase in deaths this year on New Jersey highways. There have been a total of 314 vehicle accident fatalities in New Jersey already in 2011, while 556 people were killed on New Jersey roads last year. Essex County led all counties with 32 fatalities, followed by Burlington County and Middlesex counties with 28 traffic fatalities each. Also, 27 traffic fatalities were reported in Camden and 25 people died in Ocean County.

One reason why the numbers appear so high is because the number of traffic fatalities in New Jersey in 2010 was the lowest they had been since the 1940s. Instead of maintaining a downward trend, the number of traffic accident fatalities has simply been on the rise. According to the article, it is believed that recent police layoffs may have also played a part in the increase of fatal car crashes in New Jersey.

When someone is killed in a car accident, the victim's family may seek compensation by filing a wrongful death claim. At-fault drivers may be held liable for damages including medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, and loss of companionship.

The experienced car accident lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of successfully handling wrongful death claims related to car accidents. We know how to prove liability and how to ensure the rights of victims' families are protected. If you have lost a loved one in a car crash in New Jersey, call our law offices at 609-240-0040 right away for a free consultation.

A child was injured in a car crash recently that involved a fatigued driver who fell asleep at the wheel. According to The News of Cumberland County, the accident occurred on Buckshutem Road in Fairfield Township during the early morning hours. A woman was driving two of her grandchildren, one in the front seat and one in back, when she fell asleep at the wheel. Her green Isuzu Ascension veered off the road, struck a utility pole, a mailbox, a street sign, and a second utility pole before coming to a stop. The child in the front seat suffered leg injuries and was trapped in the vehicle. The driver and the infant in the backseat were hospitalized as well for minor New Jersey car accident injuries.

Driver fatigue is a common problem that can put everyone on the roadway at great risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 56,000 drivers are cited every year for driving while fatigued. Approximately 40,000 people are injured and 1,550 people are killed every year as a result of drivers who fall asleep at the wheel. One alarming statistics from the NHTSA is that 37 percent of drivers surveyed nationally say they have nodded off for a moment while driving at some point.

Victims of accidents caused by drowsy drivers may pursue financial compensation for their injuries and accident-related losses through insurance claims or civil litigation. The parent of a child injured in a car accident in New Jersey may seek financial compensation on their child's behalf. The at-fault driver's insurance should cover losses such as medical bills.

The experienced car accident lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of successfully handling car accident cases in New Jersey. We protect the rights of our clients while making sure they get fair compensation for the injuries they have suffered. We also offer free consultations at 609-240-0040.

There are a number of causes of New Jersey car accidents. One form of dangerous driving that can lead to a serious injury accident is making an unsafe lane change. It is common in these types of collisions for a driver to deny responsibility and for the victim to have to prove who was responsible for the collision.

It is the responsibility of all New Jersey motorists to check their rear view mirrors and to monitor their vehicles' blind spots before making a lane change. Drivers who change lanes without signaling or consciously looking for traffic can cause rear-end collisions, sideswipe collisions and rollover crashes. If the injured victim is a motorcyclist or bicyclist there is an even greater chance of a catastrophic injury or fatality.

Victims of unsafe lane change accidents would be well advised to call the authorities, exchange information with the other driver as well as anyone who may have witnessed the crash, to seek immediate medical attention and then to call an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney.

Victims of serious injury accidents often have to prove who caused the crash before receiving compensation for their medical bills, lost wages and suffering. This can be done through an insurance claim or through civil litigation. A skilled personal injury attorney can help prove liability and make sure the at-fault motorist is held accountable.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a negligent driver in New Jersey, please contact the skilled Princeton vehicle accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights. Call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help.

A 78-year-old woman was killed in a car accident after a New Jersey man driving an SUV struck her. According to an Associated Press news report, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The Paterson man was backing his SUV into a parking space when he struck two women. The 78-year-old victim sustained fatal injuries and a 41-year-old woman has been listed in stable condition. The driver has been charged with unsafe backing, failure to exercise due care and driving with a suspended license.

New Jersey motorists must be careful when and where they back up their vehicles. New Jersey 39:4-127 states: "No vehicle shall back or make a turn in a street, if by so doing it interferes with other vehicles, but shall go around a block or to a street sufficiently wide to turn in without backing." New Jersey Statute 39:4-36 requires all motorists to exercise due care while driving near or around pedestrians. Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in New Jersey may not only receive citations or face criminal charges, but also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused by the accident.

The family of a deceased car accident victim in New Jersey can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault motorist. Civil lawsuits are sometimes the only way to get fair compensation for the losses suffered in a fatal New Jersey car accident.

The experienced Princeton fatal car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to hold at-fault motorists liable for the damages they cause. If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car accident, please contact us at 609-240-0040 to get the help and guidance you need.

A man was killed in a pedestrian accident in Newark recently, which officials say involved a drunk driver. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal accident occurred at the intersection of South 17th Street and Madison Avenue in Newark. The victim was pinned under a black Mazda and both of his legs were severed. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he died. The female driver of the Mazda was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving.

There is no question that drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs put the lives of all commuters and pedestrians in jeopardy. New Jersey Statute 39:4-50 defines a drunk driver as “a person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more.” Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not only face criminal charges, but also be held civilly liable for any injuries or damages they may cause.

The family of someone killed in a drunk driving car accident in New Jersey may pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault motorist. Drunk drivers may be held liable for all accident-related damages, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost future income.

The wrongful death attorneys in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to hold at-fault motorists accountable for their actions. We make sure that our clients get the compensation they need and that their legal rights are protected. If you have lost a loved one in a car crash that involved a drunk driver, please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free, comprehensive, and confidential consultation.

Part of the process of receiving compensation for a car accident in New Jersey is proving who was at fault for the collision. When the at-fault motorist denies responsibility, it becomes the victim's responsibility to prove fault by utilizing firsthand accounts, police reports, other physical evidence, and eyewitness testimonials. One way to help bolster your personal injury case is to have photographic evidence of the accident, your injuries, and other damages you have suffered.

Before camera phones became popular, it was always a good idea to keep a disposable camera in your glove compartment. This may still be a worthwhile venture, but a camera phone with a good quality resolution should be sufficient. Photos should be taken of the damage to the vehicles, the positioning of the vehicles, and the site where the car crash took place. Having photos of skid marks may also prove valuable. Injured victims should also take photos of their injuries.

Remember, an accident scene is very quickly cleared up. A lot of important evidence that is critical to your case may be lost if you do not act quickly. The first priority immediately after a New Jersey vehicle collision is to make sure you and others in your car are safe. Once that is accomplished, make sure you or others have not been seriously injured. After that, proceed to collect all the evidence you possibly can to help strengthen your case and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation from the negligent motorist(s) at fault.

The experienced car accident attorneys in New Jersey of Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims get the compensation they need following an auto accident. We provide no-cost consultations and case evaluations on all potential claims at 609-240-0040. Call us today to find out how we can help you.

A pregnant 29-year-old woman was killed in a car accident in Gloucester County recently after her vehicle was struck head-on on Pitman-Downer Road in Washington Township, according to a news report in The Gloucester County Times. The woman was driving a 2005 Ford Escape west when an eastbound 2011 Toyota Camry veered into her lane of traffic. The woman and her unborn child suffered fatal injuries. She was nine months pregnant at the time of the fatal New Jersey car accident. CBS 3 News reported that the 21-year-old male driver of the Camry admitted to looking at his GPS when he veered into oncoming traffic. It is unclear from the report if the driver will be cited or arrested for causing this tragic head-on car collision.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-82.1: “Whenever any highway has been divided into two roadways, every vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway and no vehicle shall be driven over, across or within any such dividing space.” Such New Jersey car accidents are often caused by distracted drivers who are, for example, talking on a cell phone, texting, eating or fiddling with controls in the vehicle. Distracted driving is negligent driving. When you take your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off driving, then you are putting yourself and others in grave danger.

The family of someone killed in a car accident in New Jersey due to another's negligence may pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim. In such cases, compensation may be available for damages including hospital bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

The skilled Princeton wrongful death lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein offer their condolences to anyone that has lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in New Jersey. If you would like to discuss your legal rights and options for holding a negligent driver responsible for their actions, please contact us at 609-240-0040 to schedule your free and comprehensive consultation.

A police officer and another driver were injured recently in a car accident that occurred at an intersection in Bergen County. According to NJ.com, the injury accident occurred at Route 17 and Highland Cross in Rutherford. The police vehicle was travelling east when it crashed into a northbound car at the intersection. The police officer was heading toward a traffic stop to assist another officer at the time of the New Jersey injury car crash. It is not clear if the police vehicle had its emergency lights on at the time. The extent of the injuries suffered by the accident victims in this case is also unclear.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-91: “The driver of a vehicle upon a highway shall yield the right of way to any authorized emergency vehicle when it is operated on official business.” New Jersey motorists must yield the right of way to emergency vehicles that have their sirens or lights on. When an emergency vehicle does not have emergency lights on, determining liability for a car crash in New Jersey may become more complicated.

Anyone injured in a New Jersey intersection car accident would be well-advised to seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney. Compensation may be available for losses such as medical bills and lost wages. The process of seeking and obtaining such compensation is often complicated, and having the right representation can make all the difference.

The reputed car crash attorneys in Princeton of Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims of car accidents in New Jersey receive the compensation they need and rightfully deserve after an accident. If you believe that your injuries were caused by a negligent driver, please call our offices at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

An 18-year-old teenager was killed in a car accident recently after his vehicle struck a tree and rolled over on Mount Pleasant Road in Upper, New Jersey, according to a news report in The Star-Ledger. Three passengers in his vehicle were injured as well. It is not clear at this time what caused the vehicle to roll over. The extent of the passengers' injuries is also not known at this time.

In any single-car collision, there are a number of potential factors that must be considered. Did driver error play a part in the New Jersey rollover car crash? Is it possible another vehicle forced the car off the roadway? Did the vehicle roll over because of defective design or an auto defect? Was the accident caused by a dangerous or defective roadway? In any auto accident case in New Jersey, it is important to ask these questions in order to determine precisely what occurred and why.

Anytime someone is killed in a car accident in New Jersey it must be determined if someone else’s negligence contributed to the fatal crash. In such cases, compensation may be available for damages such as medical and hospital bills, funeral expenses, and lost future wages. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, and rehabilitation.

The experienced Princeton car accident lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein help those who have suffered a loss due to a car crash in New Jersey. Our attorneys will analyze all aspects of a case and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

Uninsured motorists cannot sue for personal injuries suffered in an accident, even if they were a passenger in their own vehicle, according to a recent ruling by the New Jersey Supreme Court. The Star-Ledger reports that under the recent ruling, uninsured passengers may not pursue compensation for the personal injuries they have suffered either, if they are the registered owner for a vehicle that does not carry auto insurance. However, the law still maintains that if a person is uninsured but does not own an automobile, they can file a lawsuit. Before this decision by the Supreme Court, it was unclear if uninsured passengers were allowed to seek compensation for their injuries. The intention of the law is to force all motorists, whether they are driving or not at the time of the New Jersey car accident, to have adequate auto insurance coverage.

All registered vehicles in New Jersey require insurance coverage. Auto insurance coverage options usually include liability insurance, personal injury protection (PIP) and uninsured motorist coverage (UIM). Liability insurance covers vehicle damage, personal injury protection covers medical bills, and uninsured motorist coverage offers protection in case of a car crash with someone who does not have insurance or who has inadequate insurance coverage.

When someone suffers a serious injury in a car accident, they would be well-advised to seek legal guidance from a skilled New Jersey car crash attorney. Injury law can be complicated and it is never easy to deal with an insurance company. An experienced lawyer can protect the rights of the victim while pursuing fair compensation for the damages suffered.

The knowledgeable lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein serve all of New Jersey. Let us help you get the compensation you need for medical bills, time away from work, and financial compensation for the pain and suffering you have endured as the result of the negligent actions of another. Call us at 609-240-0040 if you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey.

A decade ago, New Jersey adopted the Graduated Driver’s License law to help bring down the number of fatal car accidents that involved teenagers. Basically, the law restricts the number of passengers allowed in a vehicle driven by a teen and limits the use of electronic devices in the vehicle while driving. According NJ.com, the number of fatal car crashes that involve teens is down about 42 percent since New Jersey adopted this law 10 years ago. In 2010, 33 teenagers were killed in car accidents in New Jersey, which is the lowest number of total teen car accident fatalities since 2001.

The most common causes of teen car crashes in New Jersey are speeding, distracted driving and driver inexperience. Parents would be well-advised to teach their teens safe driving habits, to limit their teens’ nighttime driving, not allow multiple teenagers in one vehicle at a time, and to completely ban cell phone use while driving. It is also the responsibility of parents to lead by example. If your teen sees you talking on a cell phone or texting while driving, they are likely to do the same.

When a minor is injured in a New Jersey car crash, the victim’s family may pursue financial compensation on the minor’s behalf. By filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault party, compensation may be available for losses such as hospital bills, medical expenses such as rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and more. Although these laws have significantly reduced the number of car crashes that involve teens, there are still thousands of young people in our country who are seriously injured or killed in car accidents every year.

The experienced Princeton car crash lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein provide free consultations to anyone who has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey caused by a negligent motorist. We will fight for your rights, remain on your side, and hold the negligent parties liable for your injuries, damages, and other accident-related losses. Call 609-240-0040 today to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.

Recently, a 51-year-old woman was killed in a car crash after her vehicle veered off the roadway on the Garden State Parkway in Wall, NJ, according to a news report in The Star-Ledger. When the woman’s vehicle veered off the roadway, it struck a tree and a part of the tree went through the passenger window and fatally injured the woman. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. An investigation is underway to determine what caused the driver to lose control of her vehicle.

There are a number of potential causes for single-vehicle car crashes in New Jersey. While driver negligence is one common cause, there are usually several other issues that must be examined in these cases. Did a second driver force the vehicle off the roadway before leaving the scene of the crash? Did a hazardous roadway play a part in the crash? Did a defective part such as a defective tire make the vehicle veer off the road? The accident site and the vehicle should be inspected before the authorities determine the cause of the crash.

The family of someone killed in a New Jersey single-vehicle car accident would be well-advised to preserve the damaged vehicle for a thorough inspection by an expert who will examine it for defects, malfunctions, and other accident-related evidence. It may also be in their best interest to contact a skilled attorney to ensure that their rights are protected.

The reputable Princeton wrongful death car accident lawyers offer free consultations at 609-240-0040 to anyone who has lost a loved one in a fatal car crash in New Jersey. Call us today to learn more about your legal rights and to find out how we can help you hold a negligent motorist accountable for their actions.

A 34-year-old driver was injured in a car accident recently that involved an SUV rollover at Bridgeton Pike and Elk Road in Elk Township, according to a news report in The Gloucester County Times. The driver was reportedly traveling west in a 2006 Ford Explorer when it collided with a 2002 Ford Taurus. The driver of the SUV became trapped inside the vehicle when it overturned after the collision. Officials are in the process of determining who was at fault for the New Jersey SUV rollover accident.

Typically, intersection accidents in New Jersey involve a driver failing to obey traffic safety laws, such as violating New Jersey Statute 39:4-120.9 by failing to stop at a red light or stop sign, which can result in a serious injury accident. To determine who was at fault, authorities may investigate the scene of the crash, interview the drivers involved, and even seek eyewitness accounts of the accident.

Even in cases where the authorities choose not to cite the at-fault driver, compensation may still be available to the injured victims. If the at-fault motorist’s insurance refuses to offer an adequate settlement, the injured victim may pursue compensation through civil litigation. Compensation should be available for losses such as medical expenses, time away from work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The skilled New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein make sure that injured victims of car accidents get the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. We help hold at-fault motorists liable and protect the rights of our injured clients. Call 609-240-0040 today if a negligent driver has hurt you or a loved one.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as “when individuals commit a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” Aggressive drivers who commit multiple traffic offenses at once have the potential to cause serious injury accidents and they put everyone on the road at great risk.

Aggressive driving typically involves several traffic violations. For example, a driver who is speeding, tailgating, or making unsafe lane changes is driving dangerously aggressive. Not only may aggressive drivers face multiple citations, they may also be held financially liable for any accidents and injuries they cause.

Aggressive driving is not the same as road rage, which is a criminal offense involving an assault with a vehicle or weapon. Road rage may involve loss of temper that results in an act of violence or aggression. Aggressive driving is not necessarily brought on by a particular incident. Some examples of aggressive driving include excessively speeding, tailgating, erratic lane changes and failure to obey traffic lights.

Victims of accidents caused by aggressive drivers often suffer serious injuries or death. Compensation is available to victims of aggressive drivers if the victim or the victim's family chooses to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault motorist. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, and other related damages.

The New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims of accidents caused by aggressive drivers receive the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If an aggressive driver has injured you or a loved one, please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

Weather forecasters are calling for at least five days of rain in New Jersey thanks to a slow-moving storm that is affecting much of the Northeast. Northern New Jersey is expected to get the most rainfall, and is expected to get up to 5 inches. Meteorologists say this has been a wetter-than-average spring. Rain can not only cancel baseball games and keep farmers off the field, but it can also make driving a nightmare. In rainy conditions, it is difficult to see other vehicles, road signs, and oftentimes even the road itself. It is extremely important to make sure during such inclement weather that motorists can see and be seen on the roadway to reduce the chance of a New Jersey car crash occurring.

First and perhaps most importantly, slow down when it is raining. This should be obvious, but people are so used to driving certain speeds on certain roads that they forget the need to slow down in wet weather. Many people fail to realize or remember that it takes longer to stop or adjust to wet weather conditions. Try to stay towards the middle lanes of traffic since water is more likely to gather and pool in the outside lanes. Make sure you maintain proper following distances. Turn your headlights on, even in a light rain. It will help you see the road and let others see you.

A number of people in New Jersey are seriously injured in car accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of other motorists. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash in New Jersey, please call our experienced Princeton car accident attorneys to obtain more information about pursuing your rights. Call our law offices at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you receive fair compensation for your injuries and accident-related losses.

Three people were injured in a head-on collision recently on Main Road in Vineland, New Jersey, according to The News of Cumberland County. Officials say that the driver of a Jeep let the vehicle cross the double yellow line before crashing head-on into a Mercury Mariner. Both drivers and a passenger in the Mercury were hospitalized with complaints of pain, though none were reported to be seriously injured. It is what may have caused the driver of the Jeep to drift into oncoming traffic.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-86: “The driver of a vehicle shall not drive to the left side of the center line of a highway in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit the overtaking and passing to be made in safety.” Motorists responsible for veering into oncoming traffic may be held liable for any accidents or injuries they cause.

Injured victims of New Jersey car accidents often suffer substantial physical and financial damages. Compensation may be available for these losses through civil litigation. A successful personal injury claim may result in compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, time away from work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The knowledgeable New Jersey car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help victims who have been injured by a negligent driver receive the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in New Jersey, please contact us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you.

A child was thrown from a vehicle in a car accident recently that was caused by a vehicle fleeing the police in East Orange. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the accident occurred on Central Avenue near Shepard Avenue. Police were pursuing a vehicle when it struck a van that was carrying a driver and at least one passenger. No life-threatening injuries were suffered in the collision. Three people were taken into custody following the New Jersey car crash.

Police departments have immunity from liability with regard to accidents caused by criminal pursuits under New Jersey Statute 59:5-2(b) 2. However, there are protocols police agencies must follow. Law enforcement agencies must make a judgment by weighing the reasons for pursuing a suspect against the risks involved in terms of public safety.

In such cases, the driver who leads officials on a pursuit can be held liable for injuries caused to innocent bystanders. Injured victims of negligent and reckless drivers may pursue financial compensation by filing a personal injury claim. The at-fault motorist may be held liable for all of the damages suffered. Damages commonly covered by a successful civil lawsuit include hospital expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

The knowledgeable New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long history of holding at-fault motorists liable for the injuries they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash caused by a negligent motorist, please contact us at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation today.

Recently, a 31-year-old woman was seriously injured in a car crash after she was ejected from an overturned vehicle at West Church Street and Good Intent Road in Gloucester Township, according to a news report in The Gloucester County Times. For unknown reasons, the 41-year-old man driving the vehicle lost control and veered into oncoming traffic before driving off the roadway. The vehicle overturned and the female passenger was ejected. She has been listed in severe but stable condition, while the driver was able to be treated for his injuries at the scene of the New Jersey car crash.

Whenever a single-vehicle crash occurs, there are a number of circumstances that must be investigated. Was the motorist speeding? Did a second motorist cause the driver to veer out of control? Did a hazardous roadway condition contribute to the crash? Passengers who suffer serious injuries in a car accident in New Jersey often struggle with how to pursue financial compensation for the losses they have suffered for fear of hurting a friend or family member who was driving the vehicle at the time of the accident. Ideally, insurance companies will cover most of the damages suffered following a serious accident. However, injured passengers often have it in their best interest to discuss their legal options with a skilled attorney before making their decision regarding whether or not to file a claim.

The New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to get injured victims of New Jersey car accidents the compensation they need and deserve from negligent parties. We provide free case evaluations at 609-240-0040 to anyone who has been injured in a car crash in New Jersey. Call us today to find out how we can help.

Car accidents are the leading cause of death for children between the ages of three and 14. One of the biggest steps a parent can take to prevent their child from suffering a serious injury or fatality is to have an effective child safety seat, if appropriate. In New Jersey, children under the age of eight who weigh less than 80 pounds must ride in a child safety seat or booster seat in the rear seat of a vehicle.

Once a child weighs over 80 pounds or is older than 8-years-old, they no longer are legally required to ride in a child safety seat. This does not mean, however, that it is not in their best interest to continue to ride on a safety seat or booster seat. The size of a child will change the effectiveness of a seatbelt. Parents must determine the best options for their children.

Babies from birth to 12 months old should always ride in a rear-facing seat. Children between the ages of one and three should stay in the rear-facing seat until the height of the child exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended height for the seat. It is at this time that the child may begin riding in a front-facing car seat that is secured to the vehicle by a harness. Between the ages of four and seven, the child may outgrow the forward facing seat and begin to use a booster seat. Children over the age of eight should continue to use a booster seat until they are big enough to wear a seatbelt properly.

If you or your child has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey you believe was due to the negligence of another motorist, please contact the experienced Princeton car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein. Call us today at 609-240-0040 to schedule your no-cost consultation.

A 42-year-old man was killed in a car crash recently after the vehicle in which he was a passenger crashed into a tow truck on the Garden State Parkway in Upper Township, according to a news report in The Star-Ledger. A 29-year-old woman let her SUV veer onto the shoulder of the roadway where it slammed into the tow truck. The male passenger in the SUV died shortly after the crash. The female driver has been listed in stable condition and the authorities obtained a blood sample to determine if she was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The results have not been released.

According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), in 2009, eight people were killed in car accidents in Cape May. During that same year, 583 people were killed in car crashes in all of New Jersey. Whenever a passenger is killed in a car accident, an investigation is needed to determine who was responsible. Depending on the type of insurance a victim had, the family of the deceased may be able to hold the at-fault motorist financially accountable for their actions.

A New Jersey car accident wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that allows the family of someone killed in a crash to pursue compensation for their losses from negligent parties. Depending on the circumstances, the deceased victim’s spouse, children, and/or parents may be able to pursue damages such as hospital bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, and loss of companionship.

The knowledgeable New Jersey wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help victims’ families understand their legal rights and options following a fatal accident. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident in New Jersey that you believe was caused by another motorist’s negligence, please call 609-240-0040 to receive more information about pursuing your legal rights from one of our highly skilled lawyers today.

Six people were injured in a car crash recently on northbound Egg Harbor Road in Washington Township in which police report involved a careless driver, according to a news report in The Gloucester County Times. The collision occurred when a 2007 Hyundai crashed into the back of a 1999 Nissan, which then struck a 2007 Acura SUV which in turn crashed into the back of a 2008 New Jersey Transit bus. The chain reaction crash resulted in injuries to six passengers on the bus. Three of the injured victims were transported to nearby hospitals. The driver of the Hyundai was charged with careless driving.

New Jersey Statute 39:4-47 states, “A person who drives a vehicle carelessly, or without due caution and circumspection, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property, shall be guilty of careless driving.” Injured victims of careless motorists in New Jersey may pursue monetary compensation for their accident-related losses by filing a claim against the negligent motorist. A successful civil lawsuit could result in compensation for hospital bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and more. In some cases, non-economic losses such as emotional trauma and physical pain may result in additional compensation.

The car accident lawyers in Princeton at Lependorf & Silverstein offer free consultations to anyone injured in an accident caused by a careless driver in New Jersey. Call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to learn more about your legal rights today.

NJ.com reports that a 17-year-old passenger was killed in a car accident recently after the vehicle in which he was a passenger went out of control and crashed into trees off Clearstream Road in Jackson, NJ. For unknown reasons, the vehicle crossed the center lane, drove past oncoming traffic, and off the roadway. The teen suffered fatal injuries and the driver of the vehicle, also a teen, remains in the hospital. It is unclear at this time what may have caused the young driver to lose control of the vehicle.

More people were killed in car accidents in Ocean County than any other county in New Jersey during 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That year, 63 people were killed in car crashes in Ocean County. In cases where a passenger is injured or killed in a car accident, the at-fault driver may be held liable for the injuries and damages sustained by an accident victim.

The family of someone killed in a New Jersey car accident may pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim. Compensation may be recovered for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

The skilled Princeton car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have seen fist-hand how devastating a fatal car accident is for a family to cope with. We dedicate our practice to protecting the rights of those who have been wronged by another’s negligence. Let us review your case for free. Call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you.

Collecting evidence is an important step in the process of securing fair compensation for the injuries suffered in a New Jersey car accident. Some of the evidence should be collected and documented immediately following a crash, but many important pieces of evidence can be preserved shortly thereafter.

Photographs can be powerful tools in documenting a car crash. Photographic evidence of the location of the accident, the vehicles involved, the damage done to the vehicles, and of the injuries suffered can all be useful. Returning to the crash site can be a valuable experience if many of these photos could not be taken the day of the accident. Take notes of the location, how the accident occurred, and what you were doing at the time of the crash. If possible, take photos of the crash site from many different angles and try to take the photos around the same time of day that the crash occurred.

Your vehicle should be preserved in its damaged state for an investigation and photographs should be taken of any other vehicles involved. Also, if anyone witnessed the crash, their contact information could prove invaluable. It is also important to request a copy of the police report. This report may not be used to prove liability but it will include proof that you were involved and that you were injured. In many cases, the police report will provide the investigator’s determination of how the crash occurred and who was at fault.

The knowledgeable New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein also recommend that injured victims keep a journal of the injuries they have suffered. Write down not only the financial losses you have suffered but also how your injuries has affected your daily life. To discuss ways to protect your rights and get the compensation you rightfully deserve, please call our offices at 609-240-0040. We always offer free consultations and comprehensive case evaluations to injured victims and their families.

Injured victims of New Jersey car crashes have the right to pursue financial compensation for many of the losses they have suffered. Unfortunately, it is common for insurance companies to deny claims or refuse to pay an adequate settlement. In such cases, the injured victim would be well-advised to research their legal options and to seek the counsel of a skilled attorney.

You should make sure that you have as much solid evidence as possible to back up your personal injury claim. Do you have medical records proving the injuries you have suffered? Did you request a copy of the police report that contains details that support your involvement in the crash? Do you have contact information for witnesses who saw the car accident?

When dealing with a New Jersey insurance company, it is important to take extensive notes of all statements that are made. Write down the details of every conversation you have with the insurance company and all of the questions you are asked. Throughout the process you should stay honest and concise. You should also never admit fault for a crash. If your claim is still denied, you may request a letter of explanation detailing their denial. If you disagree with their decision, you may reapply or file an appeal.

The experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to deal with insurance companies following a serious injury accident. If you are worried that your claim may be denied, please call our offices at 609-240-0040. We will review your accident and help you determine the best course of action in your particular case. Call us today to find out how we can help.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that car accidents are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States. Additionally, “mile for mile, teenagers are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers.” While not every accident can be prevented by careful driving habits, there are a number of steps that teenagers should take to decrease their chances of being involved in a car accident. The NHTSA points out three key factors to reduce teen driver fatalities – increasing seatbelt use, implementing graduated driver licensing, and reducing/eliminating teens’ access to alcohol.

How safely teens drive depends on the example their parents set. There are a number of steps parents can take to make sure that their teens are safe while driving. Experts suggest installing a camera in the car to monitor their driving habits. There are also several other steps you can take as a parent, such as restricting all access to alcohol; always make sure they buckle up; ban all texting and talking on the cell phone while driving, even if there is a hands-free device; and set a curfew. For example, make sure your teen has their car in the driveway by 10 p.m. Also, you should require your teen not to have more than one passenger at a time. Statistics show that more accidents involving teens occur when there are more passengers in the same age range in the vehicle.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident that was the result of another motorist’s negligence, the New Jersey car crash lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein are here to help. We offer free consultations to all injured car accident victims and their families. Call us today at 609-240-0040 to examine your legal rights and options.

A 47-year-old woman was killed recently in a New Jersey car accident when her vehicle veered off the roadway. According to a news report, the fatal car accident occurred on Main Street near Union in Toms River. For unknown reasons the victim’s vehicle veered off the road and struck a utility pole and tree. She was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Investigators are trying to determine what may have caused her to lose control of the vehicle.

According to the 2009 Crash Facts report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 63 people were killed in Ocean County car accidents. This number represents a significant increase from the 38 people who were killed in Ocean County car accidents in the year 2008.

Family members of someone killed in a New Jersey car accident would be well advised to preserve the vehicle in its damaged state for thorough expert analysis. In cases that involve single car collisions, it is important to look into whether a dangerous roadway or defective auto part caused the accident. A qualified expert will conduct an independent and through analysis of the vehicle to determine whether the accident was caused by a defective or malfunctioning auto part.

If you have lost a loved one in an auto accident in New Jersey, please contact the experienced New Jersey wrongful death car crash lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation at 609-240-0040. We will analyze all facets of the incident, hold negligent parties accountable and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your losses.

Five people were injured recently in a car accident that involved four vehicles inside the Holland Tunnel in Hudson County, according to a news report in The Jersey Journal. An investigation is underway to determine what may have caused the four vehicles to collide. The victims of the multi-vehicle collision suffered neck, back, and head injuries. It is unclear if any of the drivers involved will be cited for the New Jersey car crash.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 22 people were killed in car accidents in Hudson County during the year 2009. During that same year, 583 people were killed in car accidents in the entire state. Anytime there is a serious injury or fatality accident in New Jersey, it is important to determine what caused the crash and how it could have been prevented.

Depending upon the type of insurance coverage the injured victims of a New Jersey car accident have, they may need to prove who was responsible for the crash. Car accidents that involve multiple vehicles often result in complicated claims processes because they involve several victims and insurance companies. Anyone injured in this type of crash would be well-advised to not accept a settlement until after they have the offer reviewed by an experienced personal injury attorney. Rushing into a premature settlement may make it impossible for the victim to receive fair and full compensation for all the injuries, damages, and losses suffered in a crash.

The skilled Princeton car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein have a long and successful track record of representing injured clients and their families in a wide variety of personal injury cases, including car crashes. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, please contact us at 609-240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation.

When someone has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, it is necessary to notify the police. The police report is an official document that contains information about the crash and a determination as to who may be responsible. A police report will not only document a victim’s involvement in an accident and show that injuries were sustained, but it may also help prove liability.

A police report can also serve as a useful tool for a skilled attorney during the process of negotiating terms with an insurance company. The report will contain pertinent information about the crash such as the date, time, location, weather, and traffic conditions. It will also include the police officer's observations and opinions regarding who the officer believes caused the crash. If the officer believes a driver violated a traffic law, the information will also be included in the report.

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, make sure that you discuss your side of the story with the officer filing the report. If you are too hurt to do so, or a police officer does not show up at the crash site, you can file a report at the station. Having this useful document can make the difference between holding an at-fault driver accountable for their actions and not being able to receive compensation for your losses.

The experienced Princeton car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein understand how to get our clients the compensation they rightfully deserve after a crash. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please call our offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

New Jersey is a "choice state," which means that drivers may choose no-fault insurance or a standard policy that allows them to sue an at-fault driver following a car accident. With New Jersey no-fault insurance it is typically only possible to file a lawsuit if the injuries suffered are severe and the damages suffered exceed the limits of the victim’s insurance policy. In such cases, it may be necessary to prove fault for the crash. If the injured victim has chosen a basic insurance policy, it may be necessary to prove fault even following a minor collision.

Proving fault is relatively easier when one of the drivers is cited for the crash by the authorities. Driving while intoxicated, running a red light and speeding are all forms of driver negligence that may result in a citation or arrest. A driver does not, however, need to be cited for an accident to be held civilly liable for the damages suffered.

Many car accidents involve partial liability shared between two drivers. In such cases, both drivers may share the costs of the injuries suffered. A determination must be made as to whether both drivers share equal responsibility or if one driver was more responsible for causing the crash. These are examples of cases where having an experienced and knowledgeable Princeton vehicle accident lawyer on your side could make a significant difference in the type of compensation you receive.

The skilled New Jersey personal injury attorneys of Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims of New Jersey car accidents obtain fair and full compensation for the injuries, damages and losses they have sustained. Please contact us at 609-240-0040. We will examine the facts and circumstances of your case and help you determine the best course of action.

A driver and passenger, both 19 years old, were injured in a New Jersey car accident which may have involved an improper left turn. According to The Times, the injury car accident occurred at South Broad Street and Kim Valley Road in Hamilton. The crash occurred when the 19-year-old driver turned his car in front of a truck. When the two vehicles collided, the passenger in the car was trapped inside. The driver of the car suffered lacerations and the passenger sustained leg injuries. It is not clear if the driver of the truck was injured. Police have cited the car's driver for making an unsafe turn.

New Jersey statute 39:4-115 states that a driver "intending to turn to the right or left at an intersection where traffic is controlled by traffic control signals or by a traffic or police officer, shall proceed to make either turn with proper care to avoid accidents." Drivers must yield right-of-way to all oncoming vehicles before making a turn.

At-fault drivers in such cases can be held liable for injuries, damages and losses. Passengers who are injured in a crash may pursue compensation for accident-related damages such as medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy and continuing treatment and care. When the at-fault driver is a friend or family member of the victim, the injured passenger may be hesitant to file a claim. Injured victims of New Jersey accidents should know that most damages suffered in a crash are covered by the driver’s insurance company and not directly by the driver.

The knowledgeable Princeton motor vehicle accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims understand their legal rights and options. We help our clients receive fair compensation for all their losses. To discuss your potential claim, please call our offices at 609-240-0040.

A 73-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman were killed in a head-on car accident recently. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal crash occurred on West Jersey Avenue in Hamilton, New Jersey. Officials say a 2002 Toyota Sienna and a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer collided head-on. The two fatally injured victims were the sole occupants of their respective vehicles. It is unclear which vehicle turned into oncoming traffic and what led to this tragic New Jersey car accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 43 people were killed in car accidents in Atlantic County in 2009. During that same year, 583 people were killed in crashes in New Jersey. Anytime someone is killed in an accident, a thorough investigation will be needed to determine who or what was at-fault for the crash and who, if anyone, should be held liable for it.

Anyone who has lost a loved one in a fatal accident would be well-advised to speak to an experienced wrongful death lawyer. If another motorist's negligence caused a crash, the victim’s family can file what is known as a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. Compensation may be available for all losses suffered, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, and emotional distress.

The Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help families receive the compensation they need following a tragic accident. We understand that significant financial hardships a victim’s family suffers and treat every case with care, attention, and commitment. Call us at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

A 47-year-old man was killed in a car accident recently that involved a runaway tire. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal crash occurred on the Garden State Parkway near Exit 138 in Kenilworth, NJ. The man was driving his white Hyundai Sonata with his 25-year-old daughter when a rear wheel of another vehicle bounced over the median and crashed through his windshield. The man was killed in the accident while his daughter was uninjured.

Under New Jersey Statute 39:4-56.8, the public entity responsible for the upkeep, design, and maintenance of a roadway may be held responsible for a crash that involves debris they failed to remove. Whenever someone is killed because of debris on the roadway, it will become necessary to determine if the government body in charge of the road was responsible for the debris or if a motorist let the debris fall from their vehicle. If it is found an accident was caused by a negligent driver, they may be able to be held responsible for the accident and related damages.

The family of someone killed in a car accident in New Jersey may pursue financial compensation for their tragic loss by filing a wrongful death claim. Damages that are usually covered by a wrongful death claim include funeral bills, lost future income and benefits, loss of love and companionship, and more. If an accident was a hit-and-run and the driver is not found, the uninsured motorist provision in the victim’s car insurance policy may also cover damages.

The reputed Princeton fatal car crash lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein offer their condolences to anyone that has lost a loved one in a car accident in New Jersey. Please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation to learn how we can help you receive compensation for your loss to help you during this difficult time.

An 18-year-old Middletown man was killed in a car accident recently when the vehicle in which he was a passenger struck a tree. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal crash occurred on Cooper Road near Route 35 in Middletown, NJ. The victim was riding in a 1992 Honda Accord that split in two when it veered off the highway and struck a tree. The young victim was killed and his two friends, both 18-year-old men, suffered severe injuries. Police believe that excessive speeding played a factor in the crash and they are trying to determine if the driver was under the influence of alcohol.

Drivers under the age of 21 who have alcohol in their blood may face serious criminal penalties if they are involved in a serious accident. New Jersey law only requires a blood alcohol concentration of .01 or above for an underage driver to face DWI charges. The family of someone killed by an underage drunk driver may also pursue monetary compensation for their loss.

Filing a civil lawsuit against a friend or friend of the family can be a difficult and stressful process. The family of someone killed in a New Jersey car accident would be well-advised to recognize that the at-fault parties' insurance will have to cover the bulk of the damages suffered in the crash. When someone losses a loved one because of the actions of a negligent driver, they should not also have to bear the burden of the financial losses suffered in the crash.

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident in New Jersey that you believe was caused by a driver’s negligence, the knowledgeable Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein can help you determine if you have a meritorious wrongful death claim. Please call us today at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

Two people were killed in a car accident on the New Jersey Turnpike in Middlesex County recently. According NJ.com, the fatal car crash occurred near Exit 13 in Woodbridge. The passenger and driver were killed when their 1998 green Dodge Neon crashed into an overpass column. Police say that the driver may have been exceeding the speed limit when the vehicle veered out of control and crashed into the support.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 583 people were killed in New Jersey car crashes in 2009. During the same year, 48 people were killed in car accidents in Middlesex County. Whenever there is a traffic fatality, it is in the best interest of the victim’s family to speak to an experienced wrongful death attorney to obtain more information about pursuing their legal rights.

Following a fatal car accident, a victim’s family may seek compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, lost benefits, and pain and suffering. The victim’s family may also hold the at-fault driver liable for their loss by filing a New Jersey wrongful death claim. A full investigation of an accident may be needed to prove fault and liability in a car accident case.

The Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully protected the rights of those who have lost loved ones in New Jersey car accidents as a result of someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. We protect our client’s rights while holding at-fault parties civilly liable for their actions. Please call us at 609-240-0040 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.

A 20-year-old woman and two men, ages 20 and 21, were killed in a car accident recently when their vehicle crashed into the side of the Pine Beach Elementary School in Ocean County. According to NJ.com, police have stated that it appears as though the 2011 Hyundai Accent was traveling at a high rate of speed when it crashed into the brick wall of the school library. All three occupants of the vehicle were killed in the collision, and officials say the occupants were not wearing their seat belts at the time. A follow-up report states that heroin and prescription painkillers were found in the car after the fatal crash.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the 583 car accident fatalities in New Jersey in 2009, 63 occurred in Ocean County. Thorough investigations are needed following fatal car crashes to determine who was at fault and how it could have been prevented. In cases where a dangerous roadway, defective auto part, or another motorist is found at fault for the crash, the driver’s family may pursue compensation for their loss. In cases involving the death of a passenger, the at-fault driver may be held liable for the damages suffered.

The family of a passenger who is killed in a New Jersey car accident may file a wrongful death claim against the driver responsible for the crash. Family members of a deceased car accident victim can seek compensation from the at-fault party for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

The Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help New Jersey car crash victims and their families understand their legal rights and options. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, please contact us at 609-240-0040 for a no-cost consultation and case evaluation.

A 19-year-old man from Middlesex County was killed in a car crash recently after he lost control of his vehicle and crashed. According to The Star-Ledger, the fatal accident occurred on the Garden State Parkway in Woodbridge, NJ. The teenager was traveling south in his 1995 Honda Civic when his vehicle spun out of control and struck a 2009 Hyundai Sonata, which in turn struck a 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. Police believe the fatally injured victim was not wearing a seatbelt since he was ejected from his Civic during the crash. It is unclear at this time what may have caused his vehicle to veer out of control.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 48 people were killed in Middlesex County car accidents in 2009. During that same year, 583 total people were killed in New Jersey car crashes. Anytime someone suffers a fatal injury in a crash, the victim’s family has it in their best interest to speak to a wrongful death attorney to discuss their rights and options.

In many cases, the family of someone killed in New Jersey car accident is able to pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. The party responsible for the crash can range from a negligent driver to the government in charge of maintaining a dangerous roadway or the manufacturer of a defective vehicle part, which may have contributed to the crash. Every case is different and only a skilled attorney can properly assess fault and liability.

The experienced New Jersey fatal car crash lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully helped numerous families determine fault and liability in the aftermath of a fatal car accident. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free, comprehensive, and completely confidential consultation.

A 30-year-old woman and her two sons, ages 5 and 11, were injured in a Bergen County car accident involving a suspected drunk driver. According to The Record, the car accident occurred on Route 46 in Saddle Brook. The woman was stopped at a red light in her 2001 Mitsubishi Montero when she was rear-ended by a 2004 Honda Accord. The woman and her two sons were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The 45-year-old driver of the Accord was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

New Jersey statute 39:4-50 defines a drunk driver as "a person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent." Drivers determined to be under the influence of alcohol may be held liable for the injuries and damages they cause.

Victims of drunk driving accidents who would like to seek compensation for their injuries may file a personal injury claim. A successful civil lawsuit may result in compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, missed wages, and physical therapy. A family may also pursue compensation on behalf of an injured child.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car crash, please contact the experienced Princeton personal injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein to find out how to pursue legal action. We understand how to assess liability for an accident and will hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

A 17-year-old high school senior was killed in a Middlesex County car accident when she lost control of her vehicle. According to a news report in The Star Ledger, the fatal car crash occurred on Route 130 in North Brunswick. For unknown reasons, the victim's vehicle slid across the highway and into oncoming traffic where it was hit by a truck. Police have not ruled out the fact that her vehicle may have been struck by another car before veering out of control. The crash remains under investigation.

According to a 2009 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, 48 people were killed in Middlesex County car accidents. During that same year, 583 people were killed New Jersey car crashes. Any time someone is killed in a New Jersey auto accident, an investigation is needed to determine who was at fault and if the at-fault party may be held liable for the damages.

The family of someone killed in auto accident would be well-advised to seek legal guidance from an experienced New Jersey wrongful death attorney, who will analyze all facets of a particular incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable. In many cases there may be compensation available to the victim’s family if they choose to file a civil lawsuit against the driver responsible for the crash. Successful claims result in compensation for the victim’s family for all crash-related losses such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages and pain and suffering.

The experienced car accident lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein have helped numerous New Jersey families successfully file auto accident-related wrongful death claims. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, which you believe was caused by someone else's negligence or wrongdoing, please contact our law office at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

Under certain circumstances, the government may be held liable for the damages caused on a dangerous roadway. Common liability issues for the government include roadside hazards, pavement edge drops, poorly marked construction zones, inadequate warning signs, poorly designed roadways and visual obstructions. In such cases, the government agency responsible for the design and maintenance of the roadway may be held liable for an accident.

Weather conditions are a common and uncontrollable factor in many New Jersey car accidents. Motorists and the government cannot be held responsible for adverse weather conditions. The injured victims of weather-related car accidents may have to rely on their own insurance coverage to receive compensation for their loss. It is the responsibility of each car driver to adjust their speed to fit the weather conditions and to pull over when the adverse conditions make safe travel impossible.

However, the government is not exempt from all weather-related car accidents. For example, if the government fails to repair roads damaged by the adverse conditions, they may be found liable for the accidents that potholes or uneven surfaces cause. Anyone injured in a New Jersey weather-related car accident has it in their best interest to discuss the specifics of their case with a skilled attorney.

An experienced accident New Jersey lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein understands the intricacies of personal injury litigation and the involvement of government liability in New Jersey. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, call our office at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal options.

Hit-and-run or leaving the scene of a car accident is a serious crime under New Jersey law. New Jersey Statute 39:4-129 states: "The driver of any vehicle, knowingly involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to any person, shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident." It is important to remember that victims of hit-and-run accidents have a right to pursue compensation for their injuries whether the police find the driver or not.

Victims of hit-and-run drivers would be well-advised to initially treat the accident as they would any other car accident. Victims, if they are in a position to do so, should write down every detail about the crash and collect information from anyone who may have witnessed the accident. It is also important to notify the authorities and seek medical treatment for any injuries suffered. If the motorist is found, the victim may hold the at-fault driver liable for the accident by filing a personal injury claim.

If a hit-and-run driver is not found, the injured victim may still seek compensation by using their own uninsured motorist coverage. Compensation may be available for any damages sustained such as medical bills, lost wages, physical pain and mental anguish. It is important to discuss your case with a skilled New Jersey personal injury attorney before speaking with your own insurance company or the at-fault party's insurance company.

The experienced Princeton injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein protect the rights of New Jersey motorists. If you have been injured by a hit-and-run driver, please call us at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation. We will remain on your side, fight for your rights and strive to make sure that you receive full compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.

One person was killed in a Newark car accident involving a vehicle going off an overpass. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal car crash occurred on Routes 1&9 near Route 22 in Newark. One person was killed and a second person was critically injured after their vehicle veered off the highway. The cause of this crash is under investigation. However, many local residents have commented on the newspaper's web site that this ramp is potentially dangerous. Many believe that this particular overpass can be hazardous, even in safe weather conditions.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's FARS report, 583 people were killed in New Jersey car accidents in 2009. Of those fatalities, 41 occurred in Essex County. Anytime someone is killed in a New Jersey crash, it is important that investigators consider all possible causes of the crash.

The governing body in charge of a roadway must make sure that it is reasonably safe for travel. Defective design, poor maintenance, lack of safety features and insufficient warning signs could make the government liable for any accidents that occur on their roadways. Any legal action against a governmental entity can be extremely complex because of the specific procedures involved.

The reputed wrongful death New Jersey attorneys at Lependorf Silverstein have a history of holding at-fault parties liable for fatal crashes. We help families receive compensation for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, please call our offices at 609-240-0040 to determine your options.

A Collingswood man was killed in a New Jersey car accident when his vehicle veered off the roadway and into a tree. According to The News of Cumberland County, the fatal car crash occurred on Route 55 in Vineland. The accident victim died from internal injuries after being airlifted to a nearby hospital. It is not clear at this time what caused the vehicle to veer off the road and into a tree. Police do not believe that weather was a factor. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash.

A car accident may not always be the driver's fault. Sometimes, a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction could play a part. In certain cases, a dangerous roadway condition could cause or contribute to a New Jersey car accident.

When negligence or wrongdoing is involved in a fatal car crash, the family of someone killed in a New Jersey car accident may be able to pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim. Compensation may be available for medical bills, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and even lost future income. It is important that victims' families refrain from speaking to insurance adjusters or rushing into a settlement without learning about all of the circumstances surrounding the car accident.

If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car accident and are dealing with an ongoing crash investigation, please contact the experienced Princeton auto accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein. Call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you through what may be a complex legal process.

A 54-year-old man was killed in a New Jersey car accident that involved a 2003 Dodge Ram and a 2003 Ford Taurus crashing head-on. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal car accident occurred on Route 71 in Brielle on January 17. Police believe the victim’s vehicle veered into oncoming traffic. The 54-year-old man from Brick died in a nearby hospital and the 17-year-old female driver of the Taurus sustained minor injuries. It is unclear what caused the victim to lose control of his vehicle.

According to the Department of Transportation's 2009 Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 34 people were killed in Monmouth County car accidents. During that same year, 583 people were killed in New Jersey car crashes. Whenever someone is killed in a New Jersey car crash, the victim’s family would be well-advised to seek the guidance of a skilled wrongful death attorney.

Driver error does play a factor in many head-on collisions, but it is not the only possible cause of a crash. In some cases, a defective auto or a dangerous roadway may contribute to the accident. Additionally, there are many cases where other vehicles may be involved. The family of someone killed in a head-on collision has it in their best interest to retain the services of an experienced car accident attorney who will work with investigators to determine the true cause of the accident.

The NJ personal injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help their clients assess liability for a crash. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims may seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost wages and other damages. If you have lost a loved in a car accident, please contact us at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

It is important to be mindful of what you say, especially to an insurance company, in the aftermath of a serious car accident. Accidentally or inadvertently accepting responsibility or taking the blame for a crash may affect the amount of compensation that may be available to you. That is why anyone who is seriously injured in a New Jersey auto accident would be well-advised to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before discussing their case with the insurance companies involved. This is the conclusion of our three-part series discussing what you should do after you are involved in a car accident in New Jersey.

There are several steps you can take while speaking to an adjuster that could help prevent you from making mistakes that could jeopardize your claim. When speaking to an adjuster, you may want to request that your conversation is not taped. Without a lawyer present, speaking on the record could be a mistake that comes back to hurt you. If an adjuster requests a medical release, it would be in your best interest to refuse that request. It is common for these medical releases to be connected to your entire medical history and not just your condition that resulted from the accident in question.

There are signs you should look out for that may indicate that an insurance adjuster plans on refusing you payment. If the adjuster is avoiding you and does not return your calls, you should be concerned. If the adjuster does not want to put anything in writing, you also may have a problem.

Remember that insurance companies are highly profitable corporations. To remain that way, they often find ways to refuse claims and dismiss cases. Before speaking with the insurance company involved with your car accident, please contact a New Jersey personal injury attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein by calling 609-240-0040 to discuss your claim. Our knowledgeable and skilled lawyers have successfully fought insurance companies on behalf of injured clients in New Jersey for many years.

Determining the losses suffered following a serious New Jersey car accident can be a complicated process. Accepting a settlement that does not adequately cover the medical expenses related to a serious injury will jeopardize a victim’s ability to pursue additional compensation. That is why it is crucial to speak to an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney when trying to determine the value of your claim. This is the second part in our three-part series that discusses the steps you should take following involvement in a New Jersey car accident.

A skilled lawyer will work with medical professionals to determine the true cost of an injury. Many serious injuries require extensive medical treatments that may sometimes span several weeks or months. Broken bones, for example, require expensive rehabilitation for full mobility and strength to be recovered. Catastrophic injuries such as brain damage and spinal cord injuries may require a lifetime of nursing care and medical support.

Prescriptions, medical equipment, and follow-up hospital visits are medical expenses that are often overlooked by insurance companies. Even someone with adequate health coverage may find themselves fighting with their insurer to have the procedures they need covered. In cases where a serious injury causes cosmetic damage, it is common for health insurance companies to refuse coverage for plastic surgery because the procedure is not deemed necessary. This is one of many potential stressful situations an injured victim may face following a car crash in New Jersey. To make sure all of your medical expenses are covered, you may need to file a New Jersey personal injury claim with the assistance of a lawyer.

The reputed Princeton car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein understand the type of compensation that is available to victims of New Jersey car crashes. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation. Let us help you determine the potential value of your personal injury claim.

Tomorrow, we will conclude our three-part series about what to do after you are in a car crash in New Jersey.

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, you may be left wondering what actions you should take. What you do and what you say immediately following a car crash may affect your ability to fully recover from the crash both physically and financially. If you have questions regarding what you should do following a New Jersey car crash, do not hesitate to ask for assistance from an experienced personal injury attorney who will advise you about your legal rights and options. This is the first part in a three-part series about what you should do after a car accident in New Jersey.

It would be in your best interest to seek medical attention immediately following a serious car crash in New Jersey. Even if you are not sure about the extent of your injuries it is in your best interest to see a medical professional. Many injuries such as back injuries, concussions, and whiplash get worse over time if they are not properly diagnosed and treated. The only way to increase your chances of having a full physical recovery is to receive prompt and proper medical treatment.

If you later decide to pursue compensation for the accident, you will be thankful that you saw a doctor right away. Failure to get a checkup or treatment after a crash could be detrimental to your personal injury claim. For example, if you did not seek medical help, it may appear as if your injury was not that serious. Additionally, seeing a doctor will create a medical record of your injuries, which may be used in court to prove the extent of your injuries.

The Princeton personal injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have had a successful track record of helping injured victims receive fair and full compensation for all damages and losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation.

Remember to check back with our blog tomorrow as we continue to discuss the steps you should take following a New Jersey car crash.

New Jersey and most of northeast United States is currently being hit by snow storm after snow storm. According to The Star-Ledger, New Jersey residents in Iovino and Bergen Counties have recently experienced over a foot of snow. There have already been multiple car accidents related to these poor weather conditions, including a jackknifed tractor-trailer in Woodbridge along Interstate 287.

It is important that drivers in New Jersey use extra caution during this winter season. Of course, the best way to avoid an adverse weather traffic accident is not to drive at all. If you can avoid driving in snowy conditions, you should. That said, if you do have to drive in snowy and icy conditions there are important safety tips to remember while behind the wheel.

Snow and ice on the roadway make it much more difficult for vehicles to stop. No matter your speed, it is crucial that you leave adequate space between you and the car in front of you. When you do have to slow down or stop, make sure you brake gently to avoid skidding. If you feel you brakes locking up, take your foot off the brake and gradually reapply them gently.

It is also a good idea clear off your windshield before starting the vehicle and to make sure your lights are on at all times. Remember to drive slower than normal if your visibility is limited by the snowfall. If there is virtually no visibility, pull over and wait for the conditions to improve.

If you exercise reasonable caution during dangerous weather conditions and are still involved in a car crash in New Jersey, you may be able to pursue financial compensation for your accident. A New Jersey car accident attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein helps injured victims receive fair compensation for their injuries. We offer free consultations to injured New Jersey car accident victims and their families. Call us today at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

A 53-year-old man was killed in a head-on collision in Gloucester Township. According to The Gloucester County Times, the fatal accident occurred on Sicklerville Road. The man was driving his Hyundai south when he crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a Chevrolet Tahoe. The driver of the Hyundai died in a nearby hospital while the driver of the Tahoe sustained only minor injuries in the crash. Investigators working on the accident are trying to determine if the snow storm was a contributing factor in the fatal New Jersey car crash.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation keeps crash records to monitor the trends of car crashes in the state. In the year 2009, there were 257,801 New Jersey car accidents. Of those crashes, 64,348 caused injuries and 533 of those collisions resulted in at least one fatality. Whenever there is a fatal collision, investigators need to determine if driver negligence, adverse weather conditions, or dangerous roadways contributed to the crash.

The family of someone killed in a head-on collision has it in their best interest to preserve the vehicle for a thorough investigation. It is common for police officers and insurance companies to assume that the driver was responsible for leaving their lane of traffic. There are cases, however, where a dangerous roadway or a defective auto product may have caused or contributed to loss of vehicle control.

The Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help families assess fault and liability for fatal car crashes in New Jersey. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, funeral costs, and lost future wages. If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car accident, call our office at 609-240-0040 right away to discuss your legal rights and options.

Recently, two men were injured in a Trenton car crash that may have been caused by dangerous road conditions. According to The Trenton Republican-Times, the accident occurred on Highway 65 north of Trenton on Monday, January 10. Police say a 38-year-old man from Princeton lost control of his pickup truck on the icy road and spun into the opposing lane of traffic. As it spun out of control, the truck crashed into a car driven by a 24-year-old man from Unionville. Both drivers sustained moderate injuries. It is not clear if either driver will be cited for the New Jersey car accident.

When there are snowy and icy weather conditions, it is the legal responsibility of all drivers to exercise caution and reasonable care when behind the wheel. It is also the duty of the governing body in charge of the roadways to provide safe driving conditions. When a vehicle slides on the ice, it must be determined if driver error or an unreasonably dangerous roadway in New Jersey led to the loss of control.

Injured victims of car accidents in New Jersey may be able to pursue financial compensation for their losses by filing a personal injury claim. The at-fault party may be held civilly liable for the damages suffered. Common losses that are compensated by a claim include medical bills, loss of earnings, hospitalization, and pain and suffering.

The New Jersey accident attorneys Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims pursue the compensation they need following a serious car crash. We offer free consultations to anyone injured in a car accident in New Jersey. Call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help today.

In 1982, only 11 percent of Americans wore seat belts. A new report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that now, about 85 percent of all American adults wear seatbelts, according to Businessweek. This increase in seatbelt use correlates with a steady decrease in motor vehicle injuries and fatalities over the past couple of years. New Jersey ranks among the few states with a high 90 percent seatbelt use rate. However, despite this decrease in traffic fatalities, car crashes remain the top cause of death for young people aged 5 to 34.

New Jersey’s seat belt law is Statute 39:3-76.2f. It requires all drivers and front seat passengers to wear a seat belt. Legislation passed in January 2010 requires all backseat passengers to also wear a seat belt. Additionally, the driver is responsible for making sure all occupants in the vehicle under the age of 18 are wearing a seat belt.

While wearing a seat belt can greatly reduce one’s chances of being seriously injured if involved in a New Jersey car accident, it cannot prevent all traffic fatalities and catastrophic injuries. Additionally, there are circumstances where seat belts fail to work properly in a car crash. If you have been injured in an accident despite wearing a seat belt or if the seat belt you were wearing failed to work, it may be in your best interest to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.

The Princeton auto accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein would like to remind you to wear a seat belt whenever you are in a car. If you are injured in a car accident in New Jersey, do not hesitate to call 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal options. We always offer free consultations and comprehensive case evaluations to injured victims and their families.

One person was injured in a car crash that involved two passenger vehicles and a tractor-trailer. According to a news report in The Bridgewater Patch, the accident occurred on the Interstate 287 near mile marker 12.6 in Bridgewater. It is still unclear what caused the three vehicles to collide, and the crash remains under investigation. The injured victim has reportedly suffered serious injuries.

According to the Department of Transportation's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 583 people were killed in New Jersey car accidents in the year 2009 and 13 of those fatalities occurred in Somerset County. When someone is killed because of a driver’s negligence or recklessness, the victim’s family may pursue financial compensation with a wrongful death claim. When a victim survives a car accident, they may file a personal injury claim to hold the at-fault driver civilly liable for the damages.

Whenever there is a collision that involves multiple vehicles, it can become complicated for an injured victim to pursue compensation for the accident. Insurance companies often pass the blame or outright deny benefits. Additionally, if an insurance company offers a quick settlement to an injured victim, it may be in the victim’s best interest to speak with an attorney before accepting the settlement.

The reputed Princeton car accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims in New Jersey hold negligent drivers responsible for their actions. Please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you.

A Somers Point man was killed in a car accident when a car crashed into a tavern on January 6. According to a news report on NJ.com, the fatal accident occurred outside Gregory’s Bar in Somers Point. The man who was killed was a passenger in a car that police believe was speeding at the time of the crash. The 21-year-old driver and a 26-year-old pedestrian were also seriously injured.

New Jersey Statutes 39:4-98 and 39:4-99 make it a violation to exceed the speed limit. When a fatal accident occurs, investigators must determine if the driver was operating the vehicle at an unsafe speed. When speeding is a contributing factor in a fatal New Jersey car accident, the driver may be held liable for any damages suffered by victims.

The family of someone killed by a negligent or reckless driver may pursue financial compensation for their loss by filing a wrongful death claim. Compensation may be sought for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, and emotional trauma.

The Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help families in New Jersey receive fair compensation for the loss of a loved one due to another person’s carelessness. No amount of money can actually compensate for the loss of a loved one. It is impossible to put a price tag on the love and companionship we lose as a result of a beloved family member’s death. The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to help the deceased victim’s family recover financially from the loss and to punish the wrongdoer for their negligent actions. We understand the emotional and financial devastation that can be caused by a sudden death in the family. Please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 if you have lost a loved one because of a driver’s negligence.

Recently, a motorist was injured in a New Jersey car accident that occurred on the New Jersey turnpike. According to a news report on MyCentralJersey.com, the crash occurred in Monroe near Exit 8A of the New Jersey Turnpike and involved a disabled vehicle. The severity of the motorist’s injuries is not known.

There are many potential causes of a vehicle crashing into a disabled vehicle. It must be determined if the disabled vehicle was in the lane of traffic or if it had been properly moved onto the shoulder. If the disabled vehicle is out of traffic, investigators must determine what led the other driver to veer out of their lane. If the motorist was driving distracted or recklessly before the collision, they may be held liable as well.

All possible causes of a car crash must be evaluated before determining who was at fault for a collision. New Jersey car crash victims would be well-advised to preserve their vehicle for a thorough inspection by a qualified expert and to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss their legal rights and options.

The New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein help our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses that have resulted from a car crash with a negligent driver. We offer free consultations to injured victims or their families. Call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help.

Two people were recently injured in a car crash that involved two cars colliding head-on into each other. According to The Clark-Garwood Patch, the car accident occurred at Central Avenue and Hardwick Avenue in Westfield. For unknown reasons, a Ford Focus and a Chrysler Town & Country minivan collided head-on. Both the male driver of the Focus and the female driver of the minivan were hospitalized following the crash, which is under investigation.

Intersection collisions often occur as a result of one driver failing to properly yield right-of-way. According to New Jersey Statute Section 39:4-90: “The driver of a vehicle approaching an intersection shall yield the right of way to a vehicle which has entered the intersection. When two vehicles enter an intersection at the same time the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right of way to the driver of the vehicle on the right.”

Drivers who fail to properly yield right-of-way to other motorists may be held liable for an accident they cause. A skilled attorney can help assess fault and liability following a crash so that the victim may pursue financial compensation for their injuries and damages. Once liability is established, the victim may be able to pursue compensation for all accident-related medical costs, loss of wages due to time spent away from work, and pain and suffering.

The knowledgeable New Jersey car accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have experience holding at-fault parties civilly liable for the accidents they cause. We offer free consultations on all potential claims. Call us at 609-240-0040 if you or loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident caused by another’s negligence.

A recent car accident involved a guardrail going through the front of a vehicle all the way to the trunk has New Jersey residents worried about the safety of guardrails on roadways. According to a news report in The Bergen County Record, most New Jersey guardrails stand vertically. Only select locations such as embankments that slope upward currently have guardrails that are buried in the ground. Many New Jersey motorists worry that the state’s choice to mostly use vertical guardrails puts motorists at risk of impalement in a car collision.

Injured victims of New Jersey car accidents would be well-advised to preserve their vehicle in its damaged state and to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. There are many serious injury accidents that are caused by dangerous roadways or hazardous highway conditions. It is the legal obligation of the governing body in charge of maintaining the roadway to provide reasonably safe conditions for motorists.

When a lack of a guardrail or an inappropriately placed guardrail leads to a serious injury, the government in charge of the road may be held liable for the damages. Holding the government legally responsible for an accident can be complicated, however. Victims may require the services of an experienced New Jersey car accident attorney who will analyze all aspects of the crash and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable.

The Princeton car accident injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have a successful track record of helping auto accident victims obtain fair and full compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

A 42-year-old man has been accused of leaving the scene of a car accident and then attempting to cover up the evidence of the crash. According to a news report in The New York Post, the hit-and-run accident occurred in southern New Jersey on December 15. Police believe the man fatally struck a pedestrian and then left the scene of the accident. According to officials, the man then tried to pretend that he hit a deer by rubbing deer meat onto his damaged car. He faces charges of a felony hit-and-run crash causing death.

It is illegal to leave the scene of any New Jersey car accident, especially when it involves injury or death. According to New Jersey Statute 39:4-129: “The driver of any vehicle, knowingly involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident.” The family of someone killed in an accident involving a hit-and-run driver would be well-advised to speak with an experienced New Jersey wrongful death attorney to discuss their legal options.

Compensation may be available to the victims of hit-and-run drivers even when the at-fault party is not found. In such cases, the uninsured/underinsured clause of the victim’s own insurance policy can be used to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost future wages, and more. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you should be covered if you are involved in an accident with a hit-and-run driver.

The New Jersey car crash attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein understand the legal rights of car accident victims. We have a long history of holding at-fault parties accountable for the damages they cause. We offer free consultations to anyone affected by a New Jersey hit-and-run driver. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free, comprehensive, and confidential consultation.

Three people were injured in a car accident in New Jersey that involved two vehicles crashing into each other head-on. According to a news report on 6ABC.com, the car crash occurred at the intersection of Route 47 and Goshen Landing Road in Middle Township. Three people were seriously injured after a white Mercedes and a red Mustang collided. At this time, it is unclear which vehicle veered out of its lane of traffic or if either driver will be cited for the New Jersey car crash.

Head-on car collisions often lead to devastating injuries and fatalities. According to New Jersey Statute 39:4-82: “Upon all highways of sufficient width, except upon one-way streets, the driver of a vehicle shall drive it on the right half of the roadway.” A thorough investigation of a car accident in New Jersey is often needed to determine why a vehicle left a lane of traffic. Negligent, distracted, fatigued, and drunk drivers are commonly involved in these types of car accidents. Defective auto products can also lead to these types of car crashes.

The Princeton car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein help injured victims assess liability following a car crash in New Jersey. Our experienced attorneys offer free consultations to anyone who has been injured in an accident involving a negligent driver. Injured victims in such cases can claim compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and other related damages. Call our law offices today at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help.

A 24-year-old Livingston woman was killed in a car crash in New Jersey when her car left the roadway and crashed. According to The Livingston Patch, the fatal car accident occurred on Route 280 in Roseland when the woman’s vehicle veered off the road at a curve and crashed into a fence. She sustained fatal head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the New Jersey car accident.

There are many potential causes of a single-vehicle car accident in New Jersey. The family of someone killed in a car crash would be well-advised to preserve the vehicle intact for a thorough examination by an expert. A knowledgeable attorney may be able to determine if a dangerous roadway, an auto defect, or any other factors led to the fatal New Jersey car crash.

A New Jersey wrongful death claim is a way for a victim’s family to hold an at-fault party civilly responsible for a fatal car accident. Compensation may be available for funeral bills, medical expenses, lost future wages, and pain and suffering. In cases involving a single-car crash in New Jersey, it is particularly important to seek representation because insurance companies often tend to assume that human error was the primary cause of the crash.

The Princeton wrongful death attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein offer their condolences and understanding to families who have a lost loved one in a New Jersey car accident. We are here to help guide you through what can be a complex legal process during an emotionally difficult time. Please call us at 609-240-0040 to find out how we can help you and your family.

It is the responsibility of all motorists to be attentive and cautious at all times. Human error is not, however, the cause of all New Jersey car accidents. Poorly designed and maintained roadways have been known to lead to serious injury crashes. In such cases, the governmental agency in charge of maintaining the roadway may be held liable for the accident.

New Jersey has a number of roadways that have a history of serious accidents. A 2010 study released by the Tri-State Transportation Campaign listed Route 30 in Atlantic County, Route 130 in Burlington County, and US 1 of Middlesex as the three most dangerous roadways for pedestrians. According to CBS News, Interstate 76 in New Jersey is the second most dangerous roadway in the United States for motorists.

There are many dangerous road conditions that can lead to a car crash in New Jersey. For example, some roadways have a dangerous design that makes it inherently hazardous for drivers. Steep curves and sudden dips are common examples of poor roadway design. Other hazardous roadways have inadequate paving and potholes. When the road surface is uneven or poorly maintained, drivers are more at risk of losing control of their vehicles.

Smaller vehicles such as bicycles and motorcycles are particularly more vulnerable to potholes and uneven pavement. Roads that do not have guard rails or shoulders may also lead to serious accidents that could have otherwise been prevented. Some roads have inadequate signage and limited visibility.

The New Jersey car accident lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein know how to hold governing bodies liable for a dangerous roadway. Victims of accidents caused by dangerous roadways should preserve their vehicle, seek medical attention, and to call our offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation on their case. Personal injury and wrongful death claims against New Jersey governmental agencies must be filed before the statute of limitations expire. It would be in your best interest to seek immediate assistance from a skilled Princeton personal injury lawyer.

One person was seriously injured in a car accident that occurred on a highway ramp in New Jersey recently. According to NJ.com, the multiple-vehicle car crash occurred on Route 440 at eastbound Woodbridge Avenue in Edison. It is unclear how the collision occurred, but the report states that a total of six people have been injured. At least one of those victims sustained serious injuries.

There are many potential causes of a New Jersey car accident. Drivers who tailgate or follow other vehicles too closely have been known to cause rear-end collisions when they cannot properly adjust to the speed of traffic. Distracted driving is also a common cause of serious multiple-vehicle collisions. The injured victims of a car crash in New Jersey that involves multiple cars would be well- advised to speak with an attorney before dealing with the many insurance companies involved in the collision.

Personal injury claims involving many drivers and insurance companies can become extremely complicated. Insurers may offer inadequate settlements that do not fully cover the losses sustained in the car accident. An experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney will ensure that the rights of the injured victims are protected and that the settlement adequately compensates the victims.

The Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein serve victims injured in car crashes in New Jersey. We strive to get our clients the compensation they need for medical expenses, time away from work, and the cost of continuing treatment. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation on your case.

Earlier this month, one person was seriously injured in a New Jersey car crash on a highway ramp. According to NJ.com, the multi-vehicle car accident occurred on Route 440 at eastbound Woodbridge Avenue in Edison. It is unclear how the accident occurred, but the report states that six people have been injured, and at least one victim sustained serious injuries from the New Jersey car accident.

There are many potential causes for these types of car accidents in New Jersey. Drivers who tailgate or follow other vehicles too closely often cause rear-end collisions. Rear-end car accidents are also caused by drivers who travel at an unsafe speed and fail to slow down in time for traffic ahead.

Personal injury claims involving multiple drivers, victims, and insurance companies can become extremely complicated. If you have been involved in such an accident, it would be in your best interest to talk to a lawyer who has experience with personal injury lawsuits and who will fight for your legal rights and protect your best interests. It is never a good idea to rush into a settlement with an insurance company before completely understanding the extent of your injuries or damages.

If you have been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, please contact the Princeton car crash injury lawyers of Lependorf and Silverstein to examine your legal rights and options. We will ensure that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve and that the negligent parties are held accountable. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

A hit-and-run car accident is when the driver, in most cases the one who causes the car accident, flees the scene. Under New Jersey law, all motorists are required to stop and remain at the scene of a car accident until authorities arrive. Moreover, drivers are required to exchange important information such as insurance, driver's license and contacts with other parties involved in the crash. When a driver leaves the scene of the car accident without doing any of the above, the injured victims are placed in a difficult situation.

Injured victims in a hit-and-run car accident are left holding the bills. There are several expenses to worry about in the aftermath of a New Jersey car accident. Medical expenses, loss of earnings and cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle are some of the basic damages and losses victims must face.

There are a number of steps you should take after a car accident to increase your chances of receiving compensation for your losses. It is important that you call the authorities immediately following a hit-and-run collision. Take notes regarding everything about the collision and every detail you remember about the other vehicle and driver involved. Even if you are not sure about the extent of your injuries, be sure to seek medical attention.

Finally, it would be in your best interest to seek the counsel of a knowledgeable New Jersey car accident lawyer who will ensure that your rights are protected. When the responsible driver is not found, an attorney can help an injured victim deal directly with his or her own insurance company. Anyone with adequate uninsured motorist coverage (UM) will be protected from hit-and-run drivers.

When you have to deal with an insurance company, it is important to speak with a personal injury attorney first. The Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have had an excellent track record helping injured victims receive fair compensation for their losses. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free and comprehensive consultation.

A 65-year-old man was killed in a West Milford car accident on a dangerous section of roadway known as "Dead Man’s Curve." According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the fatal car accident occurred on Clinton Road in West Milford. The man’s 2004 Nissan Sentra crashed into a concrete divider on a steep turn on the road. He was ejected from his vehicle and trapped underneath it. He died at the scene of the crash. Authorities have stated that they are debating whether this dangerous section of roadway needs to be better designed or altered to prevent such accidents.

A number of New Jersey car accidents occur due to dangerous or defective roadways. Roadways can be dangerous because they are not properly designed or because they have visibility issues such as obstructions. In car accident cases where a dangerous roadway is believed to be a contributing factor, the governmental agency in charge of maintaining that roadway could be held liable for the injuries or damages caused. An experienced attorney will review the history of the roadway or intersection where the collision took place to determine if the location has a history of serious car accidents.

The experienced Princeton personal injury lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein have an excellent track record of holding negligent public entities responsible. Please remember that there are strict statutes of limitations in dangerous roadway cases that involve governmental agencies. If you have been injured in a New Jersey car accident involving a dangerous or defective roadway, please contact our law offices at 609-240-0040 to discuss your legal rights and options.

With the holidays just around the corner and the snow beginning to fall, it is now more important than ever to practice safe driving techniques. In New Jersey, our winters are cold and the roads become icy, which can cause traffic accidents. Some safe driving habits that you can practice to help keep you and your family safe this holiday season include:

• Drive slower and leave at least three times more room in front of you to stop between you and the car ahead of you.
• Brake gently. If you start to skid, ease off the brake and stay calm. Don’t stop suddenly.
• Use lower gears to keep traction. This will come in handy if you drive on hills.
• Turn on your lights even during the day time to increase your visibility to other motorists.
• Keep your lights and windshield clean. Salt, snow, and other substances can leave your windshield cloudy and limit your visibility.
• Take extreme caution when driving over bridges, overpasses or roads that don’t see a lot of traffic. Even if the temperature is warm, you may still encounter ice.
• Avoid using the cruise control feature on your vehicle over icy roads.
• Even though slow moving snow plows can be an annoyance to drive behind, ignore the urge to pass them. Chances are that the road ahead of them is in much worse condition than the road behind them.

Remember, all motorists have a responsibility to themselves as well as to each other to adhere to all traffic rules in order to prevent New Jersey car accidents. However, if you are involved in a car crash that is the result of someone else’s negligence, the experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein can help. Call us today at 1-609-240-0040.

One driver was killed and others were injured in an eight-vehicle car accident on the New Jersey Turnpike. According to a news report inThe Star-Ledger, the fatal New Jersey car accident occurred south of interchange 13A in Elizabeth. The car crash involved a dump truck, two tractor-trailers, a box truck, a pickup truck and three other passenger vehicles. The driver of the pickup truck was killed in the fatal New Jersey car crash and several other drivers were injured. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of this fatal New Jersey car collision.

Multiple car collisions create unique difficulties for victims and their families. Following a typical New Jersey car accident, injured victims may contact the insurance companies involved to sort out who is liable for the crash. After a multi-car collision, it is common for insurance companies to pass the blame or offer an inadequate settlement to the victims. It is in the best interest of injured victims or the family of the deceased New Jersey car crash victim to speak with an experienced New Jersey car accident attorney before accepting a settlement from an insurance company or even talking to one.

The skilled New Jersey car injury accident lawyers of Lependorf and Silverstein understand how insurance companies work and what compensation may be available to the victims of serious car accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a New Jersey car collision, please call our offices at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.

This winter, New Jersey drivers will be required to clean snow and ice from their windshields and vehicles or risk facing fines, according to NJ.com. A new law went into effect on October 19 that requires drivers to clean off their windshields to the best of their ability before driving. This amends a previous law that punished drivers for failing to clear their windshields if any injuries or property damage occurred because a driver failed to clean their car.

Fines for failing to clean windshields, windows, and the car’s hood and roof will range from $25 to $75, but no motor vehicle points will be assessed for a violation of the rule. If the failure to remove snow or ice from a vehicle results in an injury or property damage, drivers will be fined between $200 and $1,000. Commercial motor vehicle drivers who fail to clean their windshields will be fined between $500 and $1,500 for each offense.

According to New Jersey state officials, snow and ice left on a vehicle can become a projectile, which can create hazards for other drivers. In addition, snow and ice on a windshield can obstruct a driver’s line of vision, which can lead to New Jersey car accidents.

The winter driving season is always hazardous for New Jersey drivers. Hopefully, this new law will have the intended effect of preventing accidents due to snow and ice buildup on vehicles. If you have been involved in a New Jersey automobile accident because of another driver’s negligence, contact the New Jersey automobile accident lawyers of Lependorf & Silverstein at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation on your case.

On October 10, New Jersey asked all drivers to participate in Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day, according to NJtoday.net.

The purpose of the program is to encourage drivers to obey all traffic laws, which include buckling up, not drinking and driving, not speeding, and avoiding distractions, including texting or talking on a cell phone while driving. According to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (NJDHTS), bad driving behaviors are the cause of approximately 85 percent of traffic accidents. Tragically, last year, 583 people died in New Jersey traffic accidents. While some improvements have been made, there is still a lot to do to decrease fatalities further.

According to a 2010 study, the percentage of New Jersey drivers who admitted to texting while driving increased 20 percent between 2009 and 2010. Younger drivers are still the most likely to text while driving, but there has been an increase in texting among drivers between the ages of 30 and 60. About 37 percent of drivers between the ages of 30 and 44 text while driving, and 17 percent of drivers between the ages of 45 and 60 text while driving.

Police departments throughout the state are going to report the number of New Jersey car crashes and fatalities that occurred on October 10, and the information will be posted on the NJDHTS website.

If you have been injured in a New Jersey car accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact the legal team at Lependorf & Silverstein. Our skilled New Jersey car crash attorneys have extensive experience in handling all types of automobile accident cases. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation on your case.

One Middlesex County town has OK’d the installation of red-light cameras at a few intersections known to be high producers of car accidents, according to MyCentralJersey.com. The red-light cameras are part of a five year pilot program designed to test the effectiveness of the cameras in preventing intersection accidents in New Jersey. The program was approved in 2008 and in order to be selected for participation, municipalities had to provide specific intersection locations where accidents were a regular occurrence. There are plans for installation of the red-light cameras in Rahway and South Brunswick. East Brunswick’s permit for installation is currently pending.

Intersections are one of the most common locations for car accidents to happen. Motorists will often speed through a yellow light or turn on a red light without first checking for pedestrians or other vehicles that have the right-of-way. With the implementation of the red-light camera program, some New Jersey towns are hoping that drivers will be safer when behind the wheel. According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, there were 57,039 intersection crashes in 2009 alone. These accidents ranged from minor to severe.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an intersection car crash, you deserve to know your rights and hold negligent parties responsible. At Lependorf & Silverstein, our dedicated New Jersey intersection accident attorneys have nearly 20 years experience each in handling a wide array of auto accident injury cases. You may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries and any property damage the accident caused. Call Lependorf & Silverstein today at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation.

An elderly man and his wife were traveling on the Palisades Parkway near Ramapo when, for an unknown reason, the man lost control of the vehicle, drove into the wooded median and then struck a large tree, according to the Times Herald-Record. The 81-year old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His 79-year old wife was partially ejected during the crash and was taken to a nearby hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Sadly, neither of the two occupants was wearing seat belts.

The cause of the accident is unknown, however, there are a number of reasons that may have contributed to the crash including slippery or dangerous roadways, defective or malfunctioning vehicle components or debris or an animal in the road that may have caused the man to swerve. An investigation will determine the cause of this tragic accident. If a defective vehicle part or dangerous roadways contributed to this collision, the family members of the victims could hold negligent parties responsible for the New Jersey wrongful deaths of their loved ones.

In the event that a defective part played a role, the family of the deceased may be able to hold the vehicle manufacturer liable, especially if the manufacturer knew of a problem and did nothing to remedy it. Should the roadways be found to have been in poor condition, thus contributing to the accident, the family may hold the city accountable.

Continue reading "Elderly Couple Killed in Ramapo Single Vehicle Crash" »

The new law requiring teen drivers in New Jersey to display a red decal on their licenses has been the center of controversy among legislators, according to an article on NJ.com. The law is named after a 16-year old girl who was tragically killed in a New Jersey auto accident in 2006 when she was a passenger and the driver of the vehicle had a provisional license.

Some legislators say that the new law targets teen drivers, making them easily identifiable to sex offenders, aggressive drivers, and police who may suspect them of reckless behavior simply because they are young. However, others say that the law protects teens by limiting how many passengers they can have at certain times of the day and setting a curfew restricting them from driving between 11pm and 5am, which is intended to help prevent car accidents in New Jersey.

Parents of some teen drivers don’t want the decals on the vehicles and say that there have already been incidents of teens being followed around, leaving the young drivers terrified. Kyleigh’s Law will undergo a six month review by the Attorney General to determine if the safety risks outweigh the benefits for young drivers.

Continue reading "Kyleigh's Law Getting Mixed Reviews from New Jersey Legislature" »

According to an NJ.com report, a fatal New Jersey car accident took place when a man driving his Toyota with a passenger in the front seat was cut off by a four door black Nissan who had swerved into the right lane. The man lost control of his vehicle, swerved and then crashing into a utility pole. The impact of the collision killed the driver and injured his passenger. The passenger was taken to the hospital and treated for neck and head injuries.

As we all know, automobile accidents in New Jersey can have devastating effects due to the sheer forces involved. The accident above tragically ended in death and caused serious personal injury to the passenger. Medical bills, rehabilitation, and possible job loss may result if the right help is not acquired. Head injuries alone can require months, if not years of rehabilitation. Depending on the severity of the accident, some head injuries may require 24-hour care. When an accident such as the one above occurs, the personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Lependorf and Silverstein can help.

Our skilled and knowledgeable New Jersey vehicle accident attorneys have years of experience in handling auto collisions that are caused by driver negligence that result in serious injury or wrongful death. We will aggressively fight for you in a court of law and thoroughly investigate your case so that you receive the compensation that you deserve. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, call one of our experienced attorneys today at (609) 240-0040 for a free consultation. We can help you through this difficult time and ensure you the best route to recovery.

While no one ever anticipates being involved in a vehicle accident in Princeton, it is important to be prepared. The first thing that you should do is be sure to keep your insurance information inside of your glove compartment. You should also keep copies of your insurance in the glove so that you can easily distribute your information to the other parties involved in the accident. Another important item to keep inside of the glove is a disposable camera for taking pictures of the damages that are sustained as a result of the accident.

The next thing to do is to make sure you stay at the scene of the accident until the police arrive and until after they leave. Be sure to take down the names of the officers present and tell them your version of what happened during the accident. Finally, exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, and insurance information with all other involved parties.

After a car accident in New Jersey, it is important to report what happened to your insurance company as soon as possible, no matter who was at fault or how minor or major the accident was. Let your insurer protect you and properly handle your case. If you have any questions about your policy, it is essential to call your agent to learn about your policy's conditions, declarations, and insurance agreements. However, you may want to consult with a Princeton car accident lawyer before settling through the insurance company since you may be entitled to receive compensation that is more sufficient. Make sure that you are in control of the repair process so that you can ensure that the repairs are to your satisfaction.

There is a lot to take into consideration after a New Jersey car crash, but you don’t have to face physical, financial, and emotional challenges alone. Contact the experienced Princeton car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein to learn more about your legal rights and options if you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence. We will protect your rights and help you obtain the compensation that you deserve. Call (609) 240-0040 today for a free consultation.

With nine out of ten Americans traveling this summer to various destinations, the following will address some tips that you as a driver may employ to ensure that you safely arrive to your destination.

1. Maintain Your Vehicle - A common cause of New Jersey car accidents caused by lack of vehicle maintenance is balding of the tires and tires being filled to the incorrect pressure. A bald tire is one with little or no tread left and will fail to properly grip anything but dry pavement, thus leading to many accidents during rainy weather. Some other common causes of accidents that could be avoided with proper maintenance relate to brake failure, broken brake lights, and worn windshield wipers.
2. Stay Alert - Several car accidents in New Jersey occur due to driver error. These errors take place both due to improper vehicle maintenance by the driver as well as actual human errors made by the driver of the vehicle.
3. Limit Distractions - The number one rule for all of us to follow is to stay focused on the road while driving. Too many accidents are caused because someone is on their cell phone, occupied with the radio, or searching for something in their vehicle that they do not even really need while driving.
4. Don’t Rely On Other Drivers - The second rule to follow is to never place other drivers into situations where they have to make allowances for your vehicle, because sometimes they will not. For example, if you cut someone off, they have to use their brakes to make space for you to move into the lane, and sometimes they do not allow you this room, leaving both of you at risk.
5. Wear Your Seat Belt! – No matter how short of a distance you may be driving, always wear a seat belt. Far too many fatal accidents occur because the driver or vehicle occupants were not wearing a seat belt. A seat belt’s performance may be hindered by reclining a seat, so be sure that you and your passengers sit in an upright position while traveling.

By following these simple safety tips, you can dramatically decrease the chances that you will be involved in an automobile accident.

At Lependorf & Silverstein, our skilled New Jersey car accident lawyers understand how devastating the aftermath of a vehicle collision can be. We are here to help. Call 609-240-0040 for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help you obtain compensation from negligent parties for medical treatment, hospital bills, loss of past and future wages, and more.

Every year in the state of New Jersey there are hundreds of thousands of automobile accidents. According to statistics released by the New Jersey Department of Transportation in the year 2009, there were 257,801 total reported accidents. The department reported that these accidents occurred during the approximately 72.849 billion vehicle miles travelled that year. This means that there were 3.53 accidents per every million vehicle miles travelled in the year 2009.

Of the 257,801 accidents reported within these New Jersey car accident statistics, 64,548 of those accidents resulted in some form of personal injury. This means that there were approximately .88 injuries sustained for every million vehicle miles travelled in the year 2009. On top of the over 60,000 injuries, the department recorded 533 accidents resulting in a fatality, meaning there are .73 fatalities for every 100 million vehicle miles travelled. Taking into consideration that most people drive thousands of miles yearly, it is not so far-fetched to assume that any resident of New Jersey can find themselves in a dangerous situation where an accident may occur at some point during the year.

If you should find yourself a victim in a New Jersey traffic accident caused by another motorist’s negligence, it is of the utmost importance that you consult with a knowledgeable, experienced Princeton personal injury attorney to investigate and handle your case. The skilled NJ car accident attorneys at the law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein successfully handle cases involving personal injury and are dedicated to protecting the rights of clients. For more information and a free evaluation of your case, call Lependorf & Silverstein at (609) 240-0040 today.

A 19-year-old man hit six teenagers with his vehicle in East Orange, killing one of the pedestrians. Police apprehended the young driver who left the scene of the accident and have charged him with six counts of aggravated assault. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, all six teenagers were hospitalized to treat the injuries they sustained. Four of the victims were released with minor injuries while another remains in critical condition. While the details of the accident have not been released, it is believed that the driver knew the victims and may have been arguing with them before the crash.

The lives of New Jersey pedestrian accident victims who endure catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injury or brain injury, will never be the same. While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss that a family experiences when a loved one is killed in an auto accident, expenses arising from a tragic accident can cause significant emotional and financial strain to victims' loved ones.

Insurance companies often treat accident victims different from patients who are ill. Often, families who are expecting full coverage for hospital fees are left with bills larger then they can afford. If you or a loved one has been wrongfully injured in a New Jersey car accident, it is crucial that you seek representation to get compensation for your serious injuries, damages and losses.

Continue reading "New Jersey Hit-and-Run Car Accident Kills Teenager" »

There are unfortunately several car collisions in New Jersey that take place on a daily basis. Some are serious injury or fatal crashes, but a majority of crashes are minor. Whatever type of Princeton auto accident you are involved in, it is important to know certain steps you need to take immediately after being in a car accident. The steps you take soon after a crash could make or break a potential personal injury claim or determine the type of settlement you receive from your insurance company later.

Immediately following a car crash, it is very important that you safely come to a complete stop. It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident in New Jersey, and, you should provide assistance to anyone who is injured. It is also important that you cooperate with the investigating police officer at the scene. If no officer arrives, file a police report with 24 hours. Keep notes and write down the police report number.

After calling the authorities, exchange information with the other driver. Identify yourself and exchange insurance details. You want the insurance company and policy number of the other parties involved in the accident. If there is an insurance agent and telephone number, secure that information as well. If you have a camera, take photos of the scene and the damage done to the vehicles. Take this moment to take any pertinent notes, such as noting details about the skid marks and the respective positions of the cars. Were there any witnesses to the accident? If so, try to get their information as well.

Continue reading "After a New Jersey Car Accident" »

Auto accidents in Princeton can lead to serious personal injuries that can negatively affect your life on a financial, emotional, and, physical level. In 2007, 2.2 million Americans were injured in automobile accidents. Common personal injuries from New Jersey auto accidents include whiplash, back injuries and limb injuries. Just because you are not sore or bleeding after an accident, it does not mean that you are uninjured.

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that can occur even after minor car accidents. They are most common in rear-end auto accidents. Some other victims experience vertigo or visual disturbances. Back injuries are also common after an auto accident. If you are experiencing lower back pain or limited movement in your back, you may have a serious injury including a herniated disc or a damaged disc. You may also have trouble sleeping or lying on a flat surface. Other types of injuries that occur after a car accident include internal injuries, broken bones and lacerations. Most injuries usually require some type of physical rehabilitation and medical treatment.

Any symptoms or pain that you experience after a car accident must be evaluated with x-rays and other diagnostic methods. Medical bills can add up fast after an accident. It is not only important that you get the medical care that you need, but also that you have proper legal representation to make sure that the insurance company is offering you a fair settlement. An experienced personal injury lawyer can also help determine whether there was any negligence or wrongdoing in your case and hold the negligent parties accountable.

A skilled New Jersey injury lawyer may be needed to help secure compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation and loss of wages. Insurance companies often attempt to settle quickly with the goal of reducing the value of your claim. Please do not get shortchanged in your case. If you have been injured in a New Jersey car crash, call a personal injury lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein at (609) 240-0040 to schedule a free consultation.

It is quite common for employees to sustain injuries while driving during the course of their employment. Examples include individuals who actually drive for a living such as delivery truck drivers, bus drivers, taxi or limousine drivers or individuals who need to travel from location to location to visit clients. The employee involved in the accident will be entitled to Worker’s Compensation benefits in New Jersey regardless of fault. Such accident related injuries are compensable under New Jersey’s Worker’s Compensation Law. And, if the accident is the result of a third party’s fault, the injured worker may be entitled to pursue a third party claim in addition to the Worker’s Compensation cliam.

A prime example of this type of case was recently argued in the New Jersey Appellate Division Court case entitled Contreras v. The City of New Brunswick A-3431- 08T1. The Court’s decision was reached on February 18, 2010 and involved a New Brunswick Police Officer who was injured while in the course of his employment while on patrol and operating a vehicle in the City of New Brunswick. Another vehicle ran a stop sign and struck the officer’s vehicle. The officer sustained multiple injuries that include facial fractures and lacerations, a left biceps tendon tear and knee contusions as well. The facial injuries resulted in blurred vision. The officer filed a worker’s compensation claim with his employer and a third party claim against the operator of the vehicle that caused the accident. At issue in this case was the permanent nature of the injury and if the injury caused the officer to “suffer a lessening to a material degree of his working ability.” The Court ruled that the blurred vision and sensitivity to light has caused the officer to work more night shifts when there is less light that will strain his eyes. In addition, The Court ruled that the fractures to facial bones and eventual knee surgery materially decreased his working ability.

As is clear from this decision, there are many, many factors to consider when evaluating if a work injury is compensable. If you have been injured during the course of your employment, you may be entitled to Worker’s Compensation benefits. Contact an experienced New Jersey worker’s compensation attorney at the Princeton office of Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today for a free consultation. The Princeton Worker’s Compensation law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. can put its Worker’s Compensation experience to work on your behalf. Contact an attorney at the Princeton office of Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today and learn the benefits available to you.

A 55-year-old East Windsor woman has been charged with vehicular homicide after it was discovered she was under the influence of prescription medication when she struck and killed a handicapped cyclist riding on Dutch Neck Road on February 16th.

The 54-year-old East Windsor male resident with cerebral palsy was pronounced dead at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton shortly after the accident near the intersection of Dutch Neck Road and Wilmor Drive. The man was operating a specially designed tricycle. According to police, the man was riding west on Dutch neck Road when he was struck from behind by the woman’s vehicle. The force of the impact sent him flying into a snow bank at the side of the road.

The man’s close relatives will be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. There are multiple elements to a wrongful death lawsuit in New Jerseythat an experienced wrongful death attorney can explore.

Conscious pain and suffering is one important element of a wrongful death lawsuit. An experienced wrongful death attorney will hire a medical expert who can review the autopsy and medical reports and opine as to the pain and suffering that the decedent experienced before his or her death. This pain and suffering is compensable.

Continue reading "Motorist Charged in East Windsor Cyclist's Death" »

As the State of New Jersey sits and braces for a major snowstorm, we look to both the joy and beauty of a snowstorm, but also the dangers that are inherent with this inclement weather.

Almost every one of us remembers the fun associated with a snow storm as a child. Perhaps school would be cancelled, we went sledding, built snowmen, had snowball fights, etc. Now, as an adult, we may enjoy the beauty that a significant amount of snow can bring, but we also must be extremely cautious to try to avoid the accidents that are so prevalent with this slippery substance.

Automobile accidents that occur as a result of snow are very common. Remember, in the State of New Jersey, you are obligated to operate your motor vehicle in a fashion that is safe given the conditions that are presented. What this means is that when it is snowing, you may have to drive below the speed limit, or you may have to give more room to the vehicle in front of you. Many rear end accidents occur because a driver stops and the driver behind him or her tries to stop but slides into the rear of the stopped vehicle. The driver of the vehicle that slid will often say that they are not at fault because they could not avoid sliding. Again, remember that you must drive in a fashion that is safe for the conditions presented. The driver that slid and rear ended the car in front will likely be cited for careless driving and will likely be responsible for damages that occurred to the occupants of the vehicle that was struck. Snowy roads demand an extra degree of caution by those traversing the roadways.

Slip and falls as a result of snow covered walks and parking lots are also very common with major snowfalls in the State of New Jersey. Absent a contract to the contrary with a third party, property owners have the legal obligation in the State of New Jersey to keep their walkways and sidewalks clear of snow and ice so that they are safe for pedestrians. What this means is that if you have a sidewalk in front of your house or business establishment, you must make sure that it is shoveled, sanded and/or salted. Otherwise you can be held legally responsible for an injury that occurs as a result of an unsafe condition leading to a slip and fall. If you slip and fall in the parking lot of a business or housing development, the owner of the property may be held responsible for the damages that you sustained.

If you are injured as a result of an auto accident or slip and fall in the State of New Jersey, call the attorneys at Lependorf and Silverstein immediately. We have been serving injury victims in the State of New Jersey for nearly twenty years and we know what immediate steps must be taken. Do not delay – call one of our attorneys today so that we can ensure that your case is handled in a professional fashion.

In what is being called a tragic accident, a 17-year-old girl has lost her life after being hit by a car in Randolph. According to a nj.com article, the young girl was crossing Route 10 when she was hit by a car driven by a 59-year-old Morris Township woman. Morris County Prosecutor stated that no criminal negligence on the part of the motorist caused this fatal incident. The motorist was driving westbound and had a green light at the time of the pedestrian accident. Apparently, the girl crossed the highway at the Center Grove Road intersection at 8:45 p.m.

As tragic as this accident is, it serves as a reminder of how important it is for drivers to be on full alert, even when it is their right-of-way or when they have a green light. Although at the time of the article’s release, it was said that the investigation into this accident is still ongoing, authorities may not charge the motorist who took this young girl’s life. However, blood and urine samples for testing to determine any alcohol or drug presence in the female driver are pending.

Continue reading "Randolph Pedestrian Accident Proves Fatal" »

Based on New Jersey State Police fatal accident statistics and data from the Ocean County and U.S. Census, Ocean County has been deemed the deadliest place to drive in New Jersey. According to a jacksonnjonline.com article, there were 589 roadway fatalities in the state of New Jersey in 2009. 64 of these tragic accidents took place in Ocean County. More specifically, fatal auto accidents in Ocean County averaged 34.5% higher than the state’s average per county and 16 more than Burlington and Middlesex Counties.

New Jersey Route 527 was the site of two serious school bus accidents which in total sent 5 children to hospitals in 2009. The reports also revealed that the county seat of Toms River lead Ocean County in fatalities with 10, 50% of which occurred on State Highways 37, Garden State Park and 35. Only 5 of the fatal Toms River accidents happened on city and county roads. In addition, Jackson Township experienced 9 auto accident fatalities, 2 of which took place on Interstate 95.

Continue reading "New Jersey 2009 Auto Accident Fatality Statistics Released" »

It may come as a surprise to many New Jersey residents to learn that there has not been a fatality-free New Years since 1986. Preliminary statistics have been released by the New Jersey State Police that reflect zero fatal auto accidents for the designated New Years holiday period. This phase began at 6:00 p.m. on December 31, 2009 and ended on January 4, 2010. However, based on a jacksonnjonline.com report, the Christmas holiday week brought 11 fatal accidents. The article also mentions that one individual was killed in an auto accident on New Years Eve Day in Egg Harbor Township, but the incident did not fall within the “holiday period.”

According to the article, the U.S. Department of Transportation distinguishes these holiday periods, which may range from one to five days. The preliminary numbers mentioned above are subject to change if municipalities report any crashes at a later time. These statistics may also change if a victim of an auto accident in New Jersey during the New Years holiday period succumbs to his or her injuries within 30 days of the incident.

Continue reading "First Fatality-Free New Years in New Jersey since 1986" »

A recent nj.com article discusses an accident along the New Jersey Turnpike in mount Laurel that injured a van and tractor-trailer driver. According to the report, the van, driven by a 67-year-old man, was exiting the James Fenimore Cooper Service Area when it collided with the tractor-trailer driven by a 41-year-old man at 5:45 in the morning.

As a consequence of the collision, the tractor-trailer uncontrollably slid off the road and fell down a steep embankment. The truck driver was stuck for almost two hours before firefighters specializing in “high angle rescues” were able to safely rescue him. However, the truck driver endured a broken leg and shoulder as well as facial injuries.

There is no doubt that auto accidents in New Jersey involving tractor-trailer trucks can have catastrophic consequences. When a motorist is injured in an auto accident at no fault of their own, compensation may be sought from negligent parties responsible for causing the accident and subsequent injuries. Whether your auto accident resulted from another motorist texting while driving, operating his or her vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving recklessly, you may qualify to receive compensation for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and loss of wages. However, in order for such an endeavor to be successful, you may want to consider seeking legal advice and representation from an experienced personal injury attorney.

Continue reading "Van Collides with Tractor-Trailer in Mount Laurel" »

Most residents of New Jersey are highly aware of large trucks playing a leading role in the state’s economy. According to the State of New Jersey Department of Transportation, 75% of the approximate 600 million tons of goods moved each year are transported by truck. While the NJDOT works to enforce and maintain truck safety initiatives and regulations, some truck drivers are not as familiar with truck operation requirements as they should be. It is for this reason and various others that truck accidents take place in New Jersey.

A recent auto accident in Paramus involved a tractor-trailer and a Honda Accord. According to a northjersey.com article, the driver of the Honda had to be extricated from his vehicle by rescuers. He was then taken to Hackensack University Medical Center. Based on the article, road conditions were wet and caused the driver of the Honda to lose control while driving along a curve. The tractor-trailer then T-boned the vehicle on its passenger side after the Honda crossed into the northbound lane. Alcohol was said not to have been an influencing factor in causing the collision, although the accident is reportedly still under investigation.

Continue reading "Paramus Auto Accident Involving Tractor-Trailer Injures One" »

As the site of a recent fatal auto crash that took place this summer, a few safety improvements will be made by the Thruway Authority on the Exit 15 off ramp. Some of the alterations will include raising the concrete barrier, improving signage, and lowering the recommended speed limit along the curved overpass from 45 mph to 40 mph in one section and 35 mph in another. However, a lohud.com article stated that most of the changes will be made next summer. The ramp joins the Thruway to Interstate 287 and Route 17 in Mahwah, New Jersey.

According to the article, 23 auto accidents have occurred on this overpass within the last three years. And although this does not reflect a high accident rate, it is important for safety improvements to be made to help prevent collisions. Most of the accidents along the ramp resulted from unsafe lane changes, speeding, and motorists following other vehicles too closely. In July of last year, a 44-year-old garbage truck driver was killed after his vehicle changed direction suddenly while speeding. He fell off the overpass, struck the highway below, and plummeted into the Ramapo River.

Continue reading "Safety Improvements for Ramapo Off-Ramp" »

Anyone who is trained to operate a public works truck, or even a normal passenger car, knows that there are several potential risks when a collision occurs. Due to the unpredictable nature of items on the road or a driver’s reaction to an accident ahead, multiple vehicles may be involved in a crash. A bayshorenews.com report addresses a recent accident in New Jersey that involved three vehicles, two of which were public works trucks.

It was reported that when one of the trucks made a right turn at an intersection, it clipped a telephone pole. As a consequence, the telephone pole fell down, caused wires to drop onto both the second Public Works truck and a third vehicle which was not identified in the report. All of the drivers were stuck in their vehicles until JCP&L workers arrived at the scene and cut the power on the telephone pole. Fortunately, none of the drivers or any pedestrians nearby were injured, but occupants in the vehicles were taken to a local medical center as a precautionary measure. At the time of the article’s release, the accident was said to be under investigation.

Continue reading "2 Middletown Township Public Works Trucks Involved in Accident" »

The anticipated increase in the number of freight trucks, tractor trailers and big rigs traveling through Morris County is estimated to rise to as much as 90,000 within twenty years (quite a large jump from the current approximate 20,000 to 30,000 trucks). According to an nj.com article, this shift in truck flow can be attributed to the expansion of the Panama Canal, which will accept much larger vessels and an expectedly huge increase in materials being shipped. Most of these ships transporting goods will come to ports in New Jersey and New York, which is good for business but brings the safety of Morris County’s freight hauling infrastructure to question.

In a large series of efforts being put together well ahead of time, Morris County transit officials have initiated a study of local road and rail systems to ensure that the freight hauling roadways will be ready for as much as triple the amount of powerfully large trucks. As it is, Routes 80 and 287 see a great deal of tractor trailers already, so the presence of more will require motorists to heighten their awareness as well. According to the report, Routes 23, 206, 10 and 46 are also not strangers to the tons of big rigs attempting to find shortcuts through New Jersey to transport freight from Port Newark.

A contract was approved amounting to $239,000 for a traffic consultant and the study is being funded by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. The assistant county transportation director said that the following will be done in accordance with these efforts:

• Economic impact analysis to include regions in Morris County that are most suitable for freight-related industry


• Collection of transportation data


• Short-term and long-term suggestions for highway and rail improvements

Continue reading "Traffic Increase of Freight Trucks Expected in Morris County" »

According to an app.com article, the construction of a new bus and truck inspection facility should be finished along the Garden State Parkway by June 30, 2011 on the spot of the existing Herbertsville facility. Located at mile marker 94.6 on the southbound side of the highway, the new facility will contain a waiting area for passengers of buses that are determined to be unsafe after being inspected. The executive director of this project stated, “It’s not our intention to delay passengers, but if the bus shows signs of being unsafe, we need to pull it off the road.”

Based on authority reports, the article also mentions that approximately 1,185 buses have been stopped so far this year by State Police from Troop “E” based in Middletown, and 122 buses have been inspected by troopers and the Department of Transportation’s motor carrier and bus inspection unit. And buses aren’t the only vehicles being examined. Apparently 964 trucks out of 7,140 stopped were also inspected by DOT officials and State troopers for appearing to be unsafe.

Continue reading "Garden State Parkway to Have New Bus and Truck Inspection Facility" »

A safety measure that should have helped preserve life instead took the life of a New Jersey man. Three years ago, a 34-year-old man was killed when the car he was riding in crashed into a guard rail while traveling southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike near Route 80 in Ridgefield. According to an NBC news article, the 34-year-old was not killed by the impact of the crash, but by a perforated guard rail that punctured the passenger side of the car and then struck the man.

Reportedly, the attorneys representing the deceased man’s family argued that the guard rails were installed both too close to the road and atop too high of a curb. If not for the improper installation, it was argued, the tragedy may have been avoided. Unfortunately, according to the report, even though the conditions in which the guard rails were installed were brought to the attention of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, the supposed problems have not been corrected. A spokesperson from the Turnpike Authority failed to comment on the accident citing pending litigation.

Accidents that result when local municipalities, and other groups in charge of road maintenance and upkeep, fail to properly perform their services are not the fault of motorists. In the above mentioned case, a dangerous road condition played a detrimental role in the loss of human life. While there is no way of knowing whether or not an alternative installation or modification of the guard rail would have made a difference, such a safety issue is certainly worth looking into if it means that potential lives may be saved as a result.

For all instances where individuals are injured or lose their lives, a New Jersey fatal car accident lawyer can help you hold local municipalities liable for monetary damages resulting from the accident. Not only are these types of tragic accidents unexpected, they often leave families to cope with emotional grief and financial stresses that no one should ever have to endure. Wrongful death litigation can be very complex, which is why obtaining legal assistance from a professional can make all the difference in receiving recompense for medical bills, lost wages, and even funeral costs from the negligent party or parties whose actions contributed towards the accident.

Continue reading "Perforated Guard Rail to Blame for Death of New Jersey Man" »

As Halloween approaches, New Jersey Police officers are reminding citizens to be on alert whether they are driving or walking along the streets. Based on an nj.com article, there has already been an increase in pedestrian fatalities this year, with 127 deaths reported compared to 103 last year during the same timeframe. Five of those pedestrian victims have been 16 years of age or younger, which is why the recent warning relating to Halloween emphasizes being cautious of the whereabouts of children.

According to a New Jersey police Sgt., children have been known to run into the street without checking for vehicles in the hubbub of trick-or-treating, and wear costumes that limit their vision, not to mention their visibility to others. In order to help monitor the safety of children as well as others out on the night before Halloween and on the day of Halloween, stations will be putting extra troopers in areas where trouble and mischief is known to be more prominent.

New Jersey Police reported that since 2001, there have been 10 pedestrian fatalities on Halloween and there was one pedestrian death each Halloween during 2008, 2007, 2006, and three deaths in 2005. Two teenagers were killed in 2004.

Continue reading "New Jersey Police Warns Drivers to be Careful Halloween Weekend" »

Citizens across the United States put their lives in the hands of bus drivers on a daily basis. Transit companies have the responsibility of properly training drivers to operate their large vehicles efficiently and safely so that passengers and other drivers on the road can travel without harm befalling them. This degree of trust, however, becomes shaken from time to time, as a recent Greyhound bus collision on the New Jersey turnpike demonstrates.

According to an article, the Greyhound bus was carrying five passengers at the time it collided with a tractor-trailer. The bus driver and all passengers were injured, but the condition of the truck driver was not provided. The degree of the bus driver’s injuries is not known at this time; however, she was flown to a hospital after having been trapped inside the bus. It was reported that the passengers’ injuries were not serious.

Although it has not yet been determined what exactly caused the Greyhound bus to crash into the tractor-trailer along the New Jersey Turnpike, contributing factors may have been driver inattention or distraction, dangerous road conditions, or even a defective auto part. Investigators may also examine whether or not cell phone use caused the bus accident. A victim of a bus accident may be able to seek compensation from those responsible for the incident to help pay for costs associated with any injuries sustained. However, in order for a bus accident victim to be successful, the services of an experienced personal injury attorney are usually required.

Continue reading "Greyhound Bus Collides with Tractor Trailer on New Jersey Turnpike" »

It seems to be the cause of far too many auto accidents, especially those that involve motorcycles: loss of control. Whether a motorcyclist comes across an obstruction in the road, poor road conditions, or experiences problems due to an auto part defect, losing control of a vehicle can have catastrophic affects on a motorcyclists’ life.

In the most serious of cases, losing control of a motorcycle can lead to wrongful death, as was the case in a recent collision in Tinton Falls. According to an app.com article, a 36-year-old motorcyclist died on Route 33 the morning of September 18, 2009. Although this unfortunate accident is still being investigated by officials, it has been reported that the man crashed into a cement divider due to losing control of his motorcycle.

Investigators of this motorcycle collision may want to examine whether or not evidence points to another vehicle being involved that may have contributed to the motorcyclist losing control.
When a negligent driver causes an auto accident to take place that inflicts serious injury on another person or causes a wrongful death, he or she may be held legally and even criminally responsible. Wrongful death can devastate a family and also impose many financial hardships due to losing a family member that may have been the sole wage earner.

Continue reading "Loss of Control: Tinton Falls Motorcycle Accident Kills Man" »

A recent pedestrian accident should serve as a reminder to all motorists how important it is to be aware of individuals crossing the street. There is really no excuse for an automobile, bus, truck, or motorcycle to strike a pedestrian, especially during broad daylight. According to a recent article, a 26-year-old woman endured several injuries after she was hit by a school bus that was making a left-hand turn at Avenue C and 54th Street. The Bayonne woman suffered leg fractures and head trauma and was transported to the Jersey City Medical Center where she was reported to be in critical condition.

This accident was almost a hit-and-run since the bus driver was oblivious to the fact that he had struck a pedestrian. Another driver had to follow the bus half a block to get the bus driver’s attention. The bus driver told police that he did in fact see a woman lying in the street when he looked in his rearview mirror, but that he had no reason to believe that he was involved. As of now, the 69-year-old bus driver, who is a retired Bayonne police officer, is not facing any charges for the accident.

Continue reading "Bayonne Pedestrian Suffers Serious Injuries After Being Hit by School Bus" »

It seems as though the advancement of electronic devices, particularly cell phones, has shaped drivers into compulsive multi-taskers, which unfortunately translates to a heightened risk of auto accident injury when a motorist is texting, talking, or dialing on a cell phone. Fortunately for New Jersey, a driver’s temptation to use his or her cell phone is curbed due to the fact that it is illegal for drivers of all ages to use hand-held communication devices. In fact, now as a primary offense, law enforcement can pull a driver over for utilizing such devices while driving.

Many auto accidents and pedestrian accidents in New Jersey are caused by driver inattention or distraction, which can be attributed to cell phone use in some cases, even though it is against the law to distract oneself with a device such as a cell phone. Causing others to suffer catastrophic injuries and even wrongful death is definitely not worth sending your friend a message that can wait until you are no longer driving. Bringing such dangers to light, a comprehensive study conducted by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute this past summer reveals how any use of a cell phone while driving increases the risk of an accident occurring.

According to a courierpostonline.com article, the study revealed that a driver’s eyes are taken off the road for approximately 4.6 seconds out of every six seconds driving when he or she sends or receives a text message. To put things in perspective, at 55 mph, this amounts to driving the distance of a football field while not paying attention to the road in front of you. The study also revealed that drivers who choose to text and drive are more than 20 times more likely to be in a collision than a non-distracted driver is.

Continue reading "Study Emphasizes the Many Dangers of Cell Phone Use While Driving" »

There has been much discussion about the apparent dangers of cell phone use and driving, whether it’s sending a quick text message or answering a call. It shouldn’t be surprising then that pedestrians can be just as distracted when on the phone as drivers are while driving; however, this does not excuse a driver from striking and killing a pedestrian that was texting or talking on the phone at the time of an accident.

A recent article from nj.com reported that a man that was on his cell phone while standing by the side of the road along Route 77 was hit by a tractor-trailer and killed on the morning of September 16, 2009. Apparently, the man stepped into the roadway in front of the tractor-trailer. As of now, charges have not been filed against the truck driver; however, it was reported that the accident is currently still under investigation. Police have not revealed any speculation as to why the man entered the truck’s pathway.

Continue reading "Tractor-Trailer Strikes Man on Cell Phone" »

A recent auto accident lawsuit reported by ifawebnews.com emphasizes the importance of following through with your auto insurance after being involved in a collision. A Cayuga County District Attorney is now being sued by Allstate Insurance Co. for an accident that involved one of their policyholders. While he was using a county-owned vehicle, the District Attorney allegedly hit another car that was being driven by the Allstate customer. The District Attorney told reports that he thought the county’s insurance company had handled the claim.

According to the article, the $9,494 suit is intended to pay for the losses suffered by the Allstate customer, and the company itself will seek attorney and court fees as a part of the suit. The District Attorney stated that the other car “swerved into his lane”, thus causing the crash; however, the final answer as to the main cause of the accident may have to be settled in court.

Not every auto accident leads to a hefty lawsuit in front of a judge. However, if a driver neglects to properly report an auto accident to his or her auto insurance provider, then problems may arise. Even though being in a car crash can be a frightening experience that leaves those involved feeling upset at the other driver or concerned about potential financial consequences, procrastination is not a solution to settling such an ordeal. In some cases, receiving legal advice or representation from a car accident attorney in New Jersey can make all the difference in obtaining compensation to help pay for damage to your vehicle or even medical expenses resulting from injuries sustained during the crash.

Continue reading "New Jersey Auto Accident Suit Against District Attorney" »

A 23-year-old, Bloomfield man lost control of his car at 12:09am on August 6, 2009 and crashed on the northbound side of Route 287 in Harding Township. The car accident in New Jersey was a single-vehicle incident but none the less serious considering that the man’s 1997 Audi caught fire after hitting a tree off the highway’s shoulder. Fortunately for the driver, a passing motorist pulled him from the burning vehicle. However, the man still suffered multiple injuries and burns as a result of the accident and is listed in critical condition.

Although it is unknown at this time what caused the man to lose control of his car, many factors, such as dangerous road conditions, inclement weather, obstructions in the highway, or a defective auto part, can influence a driver’s ability to keep his or her vehicle on the road. One of the most preventable reasons for a driver to lose control of the car is driver inattention or distraction, sometimes even caused by another passenger in the vehicle. Unfortunately speed is another factor that forces things to get out of hand in the blink of an eye. A National Highway Transportation Safety Administration study revealed that 5.973 million traffic accidents were reported in 2006 with 2.575 million people suffering injuries and 42,642 fatalities taking place.

Continue reading "Car Catches Fire in Harding Township Single Vehicle Accident" »

More than a dozen southern New Jersey communities will be hosts to the fourth Pedestrian Decoy Program on August 14, 2009. The initiative aims to spread awareness of traffic laws by enforcing the rules of the road to help lower an increase in deaths on New Jersey roadways. According to an article, state and local authorities are concerned that the growing number of motorists turned pedestrians could negatively impact the already growing number of pedestrian deaths in New Jersey. The Pedestrian Decoy Program may force some motorists to consider the necessity of yielding to pedestrians regardless of whether or not pedestrians are following the rules of the road, particularly since violations occurring during the program could result in traffic citations of $100 or upward, and points being added to their license.

The director of New Jersey’s Division of Highway Traffic Safety said that the number of fatal car crashes involving pedestrians is “too high” and “unacceptable.” From the program’s inception in 2006, the number of fatal pedestrian auto crashes has significantly decreased. In 2006, 164 of the 771 fatal auto crashes in New Jersey involved pedestrians. However, the following year, only 150 of 774 fatal auto accidents resulted in pedestrian death. In 2008, both the number of deaths and the number of accidents decreased, with only 138 pedestrian deaths having occurred out of 590 total car crashes resulting in fatality. Sadly though, after posting the lowest level of New Jersey pedestrian deaths involving automobiles since the 1940s, the numbers started increasing in January of this year, and unfortunately haven’t ceased. Based on the report, as of August 12, 2009, there have been 103 New Jersey pedestrian accident deaths out of 344 auto accidents. At the same time in 2008, the total number of pedestrian deaths had only amounted to 79.

Continue reading "New Jersey Pedestrian Decoy Program Hopes to Raise Awareness of Laws to Decrease Fatalities" »

What began as a simple ride on a motorcycle ended with two New Jersey residents being injured during a collision with a pickup truck on New Hampshire’s Route 125. The truck accident occurred in the early evening at the intersection of Route 125 (White Mountain Highway) and Exit 18, which is the on-ramp to the Spaulding Turnpike. The two motorcyclists were thrown from the bike after crashing into the 2000 Chevy S-10 pickup truck. Both remain hospitalized for their injuries. The pickup driver was treated for injuries and released.

Although this truck and motorcycle crash is still being investigated to determine the exact cause, trucks can have devastating effects on smaller vehicles in collisions, especially if a motorcycle is involved. Truck accidents in New Jersey are often caused by driver fatigue or failure to respond in a timely manner to other vehicles on the road. In some cases, even defective auto products may play a significant role in causing a truck accident.

Continue reading "Two New Jersey Residents Injured in Truck Accident" »

Seven people were struck and injured by a suspected drunk driver in a pedestrian accident in New Jersey, which occurred after the driver's car apparently jumped a curb, the Associated Press reports. The driver ran into a crowd of people who were gathered on a sidewalk because some of the stores were holding outdoor sales at 57th Street and Bergenline Avenue. One victim, a 44-year-old man, was pinned underneath the vehicle and suffered major injuries including fractured legs and hips. Six other victims, who ranged in age from 13 to 65, sustained relatively minor injuries. Police say the driver, a 43-year-old New Jersey man, will be charged with drunk driving.

It is against New Jersey law to drive a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent. Those who are convicted of drunk driving face serious criminal charges, but they can also be held civilly liable for any injury caused to others because of their negligent and reckless behavior.

Continue reading "North New Jersey DUI Pedestrian Accident Injures 7" »

An 81-year-old Ocean County woman was killed and her companion was injured in a New Jersey car accident on Route 70 in Medford, the Burlington County Times reports. The man and woman were headed west on Route 70 in a 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis when the car went off the right shoulder and crashed into a utility pole. Both were trapped in the wreckage and had to be cut free by firefighters. The woman suffered several broken bones and internal injuries and was pronounced dead hours after the accident. The man suffered cuts and a broken ankle. The woman's death is apparently the 30th auto accident fatality in Burlington County this year and the second in Medford in two days.

About 6 million people in the United States are involved in car accidents every year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). About 43,000 auto accident victims are killed and 2.6 million are injured each year, making auto accidents the leading cause of death among Americans between ages 4 and 44. While a majority of these injuries are relatively minor, some are devastating permanent injuries that have long-term impact on accident victims and their families.

Continue reading "New Jersey Car Accident Kills Woman on Route 70" »

Two Jersey City police officers and two others were seriously injured after a two-car accident at the corner of Bayview Avenue and Martin Luther King Drive, according to a news report in The Jersey Journal. The two police officers in the cruiser suffered head injuries. There is not much information about whose fault the auto accident in New Jersey was or what type of injuries the people in the other vehicle suffered.

Anytime a car accident involves a government employee or someone who is on-the-job, matters can get complicated. If you have been seriously injured because of someone who is acting as an employee at the time of the crash, you could file a personal injury claim not only against the person who caused the accident, but also their employer. If the employer happens to be a public entity or a governmental agency, please remember that there are strict statutes of limitations and you will need to file your claim within 90 days (or three months) of the accident or injury.

Continue reading "Two New Jersey Police Officers Injured in Two-Car Collision" »

Pedestrian accident deaths have skyrocketed in New Jersey, a recent report states. Last year, auto accidents dropped 18.5 percent. However, pedestrian accident fatalities rose by a whopping 36.5 percent. New Jersey State police statistics show motor vehicles were responsible for 86 walking deaths. Three victims were under 16 and 38 were over 49.

What are the most common causes for these fatal pedestrian accidents in New Jersey? According to the columnist, based on statistics provided by the Administrative Office of the Courts, speeders, reckless and inattentive drivers are each ticketed at a rate 22 times greater than pedestrian violators. Police also concede apparently that they tend to target drivers over jaywalkers, especially those who speed and drive under the influence.

Continue reading "Pedestrian Accident Deaths Rise in New Jersey" »

According to a report from multiple New Jersey news resources, including NJ.com, studies show that a startling number of drivers like to text on the way to their destinations, which creates more potential for New Jersey car collisions.

A report released by Fairleigh-Dickinson University shows that texting while driving is up by 40% in the state of New Jersey, with an estimated one in five drivers admitting a history of sending text phone messages while en route in a vehicle.

Apparently, government strategies such as fines for driving cell phone users are having less than the desired impact. Add to that the emergence of driving while texting, which shows an ever more insidious encroachment of new technology into our personal safety. The public used to be worried about drivers just talking on phones, even with Bluetooth or other wireless hands-free headsets studies showed that just diverting mental attention to a conversation could have an adverse effect on a driver’s response times.

Texting while driving goes several steps beyond this concern. The driver has to hold the phone in range of view while simultaneously viewing the road, all while manipulating the small cell phone keyboard!

Is driving while texting a victimless crime? Those impacted by its effects don’t think so. All kinds of potential accidents can result from an inattentive driver, and with the minimum state auto liability rates not even high enough to cover basic auto damage, many of these cases are ending up in NJ courts.

Continue reading "Put Down That Phone: NJ Drivers Continue to Text Behind the Wheel" »

A 26-year-old man from Mount Laurel, died in a motorcycle crash in New Jersey after his motorcycle collided with another vehicle in Medford. According to this news report, the motorcyclist was riding a 2006 Suzuki westbound on Church Road when a 22-year-old woman driving a Chevrolet Tahoe made a left turn in front of him.

The motorcyclist suffered fatal head injuries. This is apparently the 30th auto accident in Burlington County in 2009 and the second motorcycle fatality in Medford in the last two months.

New Jersey Vehicle Code section 39:4-123 prohibits motorists from making improper right or left-hand turns. New Jersey Vehicle Code section 39:4-11.5b states that motorists who are attempting to make a turn must "come to a complete stop and yield to all traffic and pedestrians before proceeding."

Whether you have been injured in a car accident or motorcycle accident in New Jersey, you need the help and guidance of a skilled New Jersey personal injury lawyer who will help determine who was at fault and hold the negligent parties or wrongdoers accountable for their action.

Continue reading "Fatal New Jersey Motorcycle Accident" »

An Asbury Park officer has been hospitalized for several days after sustaining serious injuries as a result of being hit by a car while on duty. The Officer suffered broken bones and has been listed in fair condition at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, according to a report.

The Pennsylvania driver involved in the car accident in New Jersey has been charged with offenses including assault by auto and driving under the influence. The 23 year old driver and his three passengers had been in Asbury Park to see a concert.

The injured Officer and another officer were at the scene of an accident at Memorial Drive and Springwood Avenue. A vehicle drove onto the accident scene and the Officer repeatedly tried to stop this vehicle but the car hit the officer. The car sustained extensive windshield and roof damage in the crash.

The hurt Officer and his family would be wise to contact a skilled New Jersey automobile accident attorney. There are multiple facets to his case. Most importantly, the officer has a worker’s compensation claim as well as a third party case.

Continue reading "Asbury Park Cop Hospitalized after Being Struck by Car" »

Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous auto accidents because they usually result in catastrophic injuries or death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are about 40,000 fatal auto accidents in the United States on average each year. Out of these fatal auto accidents, about 25 percent or 10,000, involve rollover accidents.

Rollover accidents often cause serious injuries such as paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, bone fractures, internal organ damage and amputations. Many of these injuries could leave you with permanent disabilities that could affect your ability to earn a living. A number of rollover accidents involve sport utility vehicles and light trucks. This is largely because of design and product defects associated with these types of vehicles.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rollover auto accident in New Jersey, it is extremely important that you retain the services of experienced rollover accident attorneys to fight for your legal rights. You may be able to recover monetary compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, loss of wages, loss of enjoyment of activities and other related costs.

Continue reading "New Jersey Vehicle Rollover Accidents" »

A New Jersey driver reportedly caused the death of an Evesham man in a pedestrian accident, according to this news report in the Burlington County Times. The pedestrian accident victim was reportedly walking on the southbound shoulder of a road when he was struck by the northbound vehicle. Police say the drugs inside the man's vehicle were unauthorized prescription painkillers.

Pedestrian accidents are devastating to pedestrians because when a pedestrian is hit by a car or another vehicle, the laws of physics almost guarantee that he or she will be badly injured. Like all drivers, New Jersey drivers have the legal obligation to watch for pedestrians on the road.

Unfortunately, many drivers are negligent. More than 20 percent of New Jersey traffic deaths in 2005 involved pedestrian accidents, while the national percentage was just 11.2 percent. The most common causes of pedestrian versus auto accident include inattention, intoxication, falling asleep at the wheel and distractions such as texting or talking on the cell phone.

Continue reading "Fatal Pedestrian Accident" »

A New Jersey man was killed in a motorcycle accident after he crashed into a car that turned in front of him, according to this news report. Police officials investigating the fatal motorcycle crash said the car, in which two people were riding, turned into a driveway in front of the motorcycle. The motorcyclist apparently struck the car and was thrown off his bike. He was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of personal injuries and death in the United States. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,000 motorcyclists were killed in 2001. That number, nationwide and in New Jersey, has been climbing as more and more people are starting to ride motorcycles because it is a cheaper mode of transportation, especially in the light of climbing gas prices.

Motorcyclists are more likely to suffer major injuries or death in the event of an auto accident because they are riding an open vehicle with very little protection. All they have is their helmet and protective gear such as leather jacket or boots, which is hardly sufficient protection in the event of a crash. In most cases, motorcyclists are seriously injured or killed as a result of negligence on another driver's part.

Continue reading "Fatal Motorcycle Accident Kills New Jersey Man" »

Auto accident victims who claim they have been injured as a result of auto product defects in New Jersey and across the nation from Chrysler and General Motors vehicles are being left high and dry because of the auto makers' bankruptcy filings. According to this news report, consumers and consumer advocates are outraged that auto makers, that are being financed by tax payers, are throwing "consumer safety protections out the window."

The bankruptcy of Chrysler and GM has led to new complications, particularly with regard to product liability lawsuits. According to several consumer advocates, the car companies will back up their warranties for auto parts, but will not take responsibility for personal injuries caused by defective auto parts. So, for example, if your brakes are bad, they'll fix them. But if you crash and get seriously injured because of defective brakes, then your auto maker (Chrysler or GM) won't be held liable for that.

Auto product defects are more common than we know or hear about every day. Thousands of auto accidents occur nationwide and in New Jersey because of defective auto products such as tires, airbags, seatbelts, seatbacks, engines and steering. Defective design of a vehicle can also cause catastrophic injuries or deaths in an auto accident.

Continue reading "GM and Chrysler Bankruptcies Affect Auto Product Liability Lawsuits" »

A recent article from JusticeNewsFlash.com described a New Jersey pedestrian accident which claimed the life of an elderly Trenton man. Officials with the Trenton Police Department say that the 86-year-old man died from injuries he suffered when he was struck by a motorcycle driven by a 49-year-old man of Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania. According to law enforcement officials investigating the New Jersey pedestrian accident, the incident occurred around 7:15 on the evening of May 9, 2009. Officials from the Trenton Police Department say that the motorcyclist was riding his motorcycle down an undisclosed Trenton street when he struck the pedestrian with his motorcycle.

After striking the pedestrian with his motorcycle, Trenton Police report that the driver then crashed into a telephone pole at a high rate of speed and died from injuries he suffered in the collision. Emergency response personnel responding to the auto accident in New Jersey claim that the elderly man died instantly at the accident scene from the grave injuries he received from being struck by the motorcycle. After striking the telephone pole, the motorcyclist was reportedly thrown from his motorcycle an undisclosed distance and later transported to the Capital Health System at Fuld Hospital in Trenton for treatment for his injuries. He was admitted with injuries described as ‘critical’ and died from his injuries approximately three hours after being admitted for treatment.

The investigation into the tragic accident was still underway when the article was published, but Trenton police say that the motorcyclist had just left a nearby bar shortly before the pedestrian accident occurred. They suspect that alcohol may have been a factor in the fatal accident but are withholding making a formal statement pending the results of blood tests.

Continue reading "New Jersey Pedestrian vs. Motorcycle Accident Kills Elderly Man and Driver" »

A driver sustained serious injuries after two school buses collided in a New Jersey bus accident, according to an Associated Press news report. Some students also suffered minor injuries in this crash. Authorities say the driver of a Delsea Regional High School bus, which was not carrying any students, ran a stop sign and crashed into a bus carrying students from St. Augustine Prep School in Buena Vista and Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Franklin Township. Merisa Tolentino, a 37-year-old woman who was driving the private bus, suffered head, neck and back injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

Not following traffic rules -- such as stopping at stop signs, waiting at a red light or yielding to pedestrians -- is usually treated as negligence on the part of the driver. If you have been injured as a result of someone else's negligence, then you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and related expenses that include cost of hospitalization, medical costs, future treatment and loss of wages if you had to miss work because of your injuries and/or hospitalization.

If you were on the job at the time of your injury, then you are entitled to NJ workers compensation benefits from your employer. If the negligent party was also on the job at the time of the crash, then that individual's employer could also be held liable for your injuries and loss. Knowledgeable and experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyers will be able to explain these issues and guide you through a complicated legal process after a personal injury accident.

Please call our skilled Princeton personal injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation and case evaluation. We will fight for your legal rights and make sure you are fairly compensation for your injuries and loss.

A 28-year-old Middletown Township woman was seriously injured in an auto accident in New Jersey involving two cars and two heavy trucks, according to an article in the Asbury Park Press. Mary Anderson was driving alone in an Oldsmobile Alero northbound near New Monmouth Road and had to be extricated from the car after the accident. The car crash is still under investigation by police. Anderson remained in critical condition in an area hospital. None of the other drivers was seriously injured, the report stated.

New Jersey car accidents occur for various reasons. Sometimes, these crashes are caused by a driver's error or external factors such as weather or a dangerous roadway. Sometimes, it occurs because of a mechanical problem with the vehicle or a product defect issue. However, when a car accident involves a collision, someone is almost always at fault. The negligent driver or the driver at fault is usually held financially responsible for the accident, resulting injuries and/or damages.

The process of sorting through insurance issues or determining liability is never easy. It is an extremely complex process and can be time-consuming and tedious, especially at a time when you are trying to recover from serious injuries. The first step you should take if you have been seriously injured in a New Jersey car accident is to get prompt medical attention. The second step, especially if you believe you have been the victim of someone else's negligence, is to contact experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys who will investigate your case and make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages and loss. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey auto accident, please call Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation and evaluation of your case.

A 27-year-old bicyclist suffered severe injuries on Route 46 in Parsippany, The Star-Ledger reports in a story. The bicyclist, who has not yet been identified by officials, was discovered injured by another driver who then called authorities. The injured victim was found lying on the shoulder of Route 46 east between Cherry Hill Road and Lackawanna Avenue. The bicyclist was still straddling the bike he had been riding, the news report states. He was severely injured and was taken to an area hospital. Police are looking for anyone who may have witnessed this possible hit-and-run bike accident in New Jersey.

Whether involving a pedestrian, bicyclist, or another vehicle, leaving the scene of a New Jersey car accident is a crime. The law (39:4-129 – Action in case of accident) states: "The driver of any vehicle, knowingly involved in an accident resulting in injury or death to any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close thereto as possible but shall then forthwith return to and in every event shall remain at the scene until he has fulfilled the requirements of subsection (c) of this section. Every such stop shall be made without obstructing traffic more than is necessary. Any person who shall violate this subsection shall be fined not less than $2,500 nor more than $5,000, or be imprisoned for a period of 180 days, or both. The term of imprisonment required by this subsection shall be imposed only if the accident resulted in death or injury to a person other than the driver convicted of violating this section.

Section (c) of that code states the driver must give his name and address and show his driver's license and vehicle registration to the person injured or to the individual whose property has been damaged. Motorists are also required under this law to render "reasonable assistance" to the injured party, which could include taking the person to a hospital or getting help to transport him or her to the hospital.

If you have been seriously injured in a New Jersey bike accident, pedestrian accident, or auto accident as a result of someone else's negligence, please contact an experienced New Jersey auto accident attorney who will help hold the negligent parties accountable and help you secure fair compensation for your injuries and loss. At Lependorf & Silverstein, we are skilled in personal injury law have the knowledge and resources to provide the quality legal representation you need during this difficult time. Call us today for a free evaluation.

A 53-year-old railroad employee, who was repairing damage from an earlier accident in Middletown died after he was hit by a truck. According to this news report in the Bucks County Courier Times, the man was killed at Big Oak and Township Line roads when a tractor-trailer carrying Keebler cookie products struck him while making a sharp right turn. The worker was apparently crouched down to repair the wiring to the train crossing lights when the large truck made a right turn and struck him.

Local officials told the newspaper that this intersection has been the scene of many accidents. The worker was reportedly wearing all the proper safety clothing including his white helmet. There were also orange cones in the area to warn motorists about the work in progress. Authorities say the driver of the tractor trailer saw the worker, but had not realized that he had hit him. He stopped immediately. The worker died from massive chest and leg injuries.

If you are injured while on the job, you will be entitled to New Jersey workers compensation benefits. If a worker suffers fatal injuries, his family will be eligible to receive workers compensation benefits. However, these benefits are hardly enough to compensate a family for the loss of their primary wage earner.

It is important for the families of deceased workers to contact an experienced New Jersey wrongful death lawyer with a successful track record of handling workers compensation issues and third party claims. In some cases, a third party (other than an employer), can be held liable.

A skilled New Jersey personal injury attorney from Lependorf & Silverstein can help you through this complex legal process and help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.

Tragedy struck in the North Philadelphia neighborhood of Feltonville on Wednesday, June 10, 2009 when a car that was attempting to escape the scene of a robbery jumped a concrete curb and killed three young children who were outside in front of their home. All three children were under the age of ten. Two men stole a motorcycle at gunpoint . One fled on the stolen motorcycle and the other fled in a car. It appears as if the car was being pursued by police prior to causing this horrific auto accident. In this case, it is unlikely that the fleeing car had a substantial insurance policy that would be available to the victims and their family. In fact, the car may have no insurance at all. As for the motorcycle, stolen vehicles that are insured are not required to provide coverage to accident victims.

In so many cases such as these the victims often are unable to obtain any significant compensation. However, high speed cases sometimes can result in significant awards. Police are required to use a certain degree of care when involved with high speed pursuits. This is especially the case when these chases are through residential neighborhoods. In this case, the chase ended in a neighborhood of row houses were young children are likely to be playing outside, especially in the summer when the weather is warm and the days are long. If police do not adhere to the guidelines they must follow, often the police department can be named as a defendant in a high speed pursuit case.

It is important to obtain all records including log books, radio calls and police handbooks when considering law enforcement liability in a case such as this. Despite the tragic nature of these types of cases, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible so witnesses can be interviewed and evidence can be preserved. If you have questions concerning a case such as this, or any other accident injury case, contact the Princeton, New Jersey personal injury law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein for a confidential discussion regarding the facts of your case.

The hit-and-run conviction of a former mayor of a northern New Jersey city was upheld by an appeals court recently for a 2003 snowmobile accident that left a local teen with severe leg injuries. According to this article, former Andover mayor David Mosner was sentenced to serve nine months in jail for hitting 17-year-old David MacInnis with his snowmobile on a rural road and leaving the scene of the accident.

During the trial, a jury found Mosner guilty of assault by auto and leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries. At the appeals trial, Mosner argued that he should have been allowed to enter a pretrial intervention program and avoid having to serve jail time. He also challenged the legality of a police search. However the appeals court upheld the decision of the earlier trial and Mosner will have to serve his nine-month jail sentence.

Hit-and-run accidents claim the lives of countless New Jersey residents each year and many more victims are left with severe injuries, whether they are hit by a car, truck, snowmobile, or another type of vehicle. If you or someone you care for has been injured or killed in a New Jersey hit-and-run accident, the New Jersey personal injury law firm Lependorf & Silverstein may be able to help. Their experienced New Jersey car accident lawyers work hard to help their clients receive the compensation they deserve and hold those who caused the accident responsible for their actions.

With their legal counsel and assistance, victims of hit-and-run accidents—or any other types of personal injury accidents—can get compensation to offset the steep costs of medical treatment, physical rehabilitation, loss of income and other accident-related costs. To schedule a free consultation with experienced New Jersey auto accident attorneys, call Lependorf & Silverstein today at 609-240-0040.

According to this report, New Jersey’s youngest drivers will gain driving experience under some of the nation’s strictest driving laws as of spring 2010 in an effort to prevent accidents that cause personal injury in New Jersey. New Jersey Governor Corzine recently signed into law a measure which will require drivers under the age of 21 to display a sticker on the window of their vehicle which indicates that they are new drivers. The move is intended to make younger drivers more easily identifiable to law enforcement officials. The new law is called and was named after 16-year-old Kyleigh D'Alessio who was killed in a car accident involving a teen driver who also died.

In a bill-signing ceremony at D’Alessio’s former school—West Morris Central High—Corzine said, "Having a driver's license is an awesome responsibility for any teenager. The legislation I am signing today initiates several preventative measures to help avoid further teen driving tragedies like Kyleigh's while ensuring that our young people are better prepared to safely take to the roadways," he said.

The governor also signed a second law targeting younger drivers which will also go into effect spring 2010 which limits drivers under 21 from having more than one passenger in the car unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. This law also changes the curfew for young drivers from midnight to 5 A.M., to 11 P.M. and 5 A.M.

Auto accidents in New Jersey claim a disproportionate amount of teenage drivers’ lives, but drivers of all ages are at risk on our state’s busy streets and highways, not only from inexperienced drivers but also drunken drivers, distracted drivers, sleep-deprived drivers, and negligent drivers.

The new law also changes the naming of licenses for under-21 drivers from provisional licenses to probationary licenses. On average, New Jersey’s teenage drivers are involved in an auto accident every nine minutes and one in six licensed young drivers in New Jersey is involved in a car crash. New Jersey law enforcement officials said that if an underage driver failed to have the sticker on their car when the law takes effect, the driver would be fined $100 but did not say what the punishment for subsequent violations would entail.

If you or someone you care for has been injured or killed in an auto accident, the New Jersey auto accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein may be able to help you receive the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with the experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyers at New Jersey personal injury law firm Lependorf & Silverstein, call them today at 609-240-0040.

A catastrophic car accident in New Jersey which involved a tractor-trailer and ten cars on the New Jersey Turnpike near Mount Laurel claimed the lives of five New Jersey residents and injured several more according to this recent report. New Jersey State Police officials say that the accident occurred around 1:00 P.M. just north of exit 4 when a 2004 Buick LeSabre was stopped in the right lane of traffic and struck in the rear by the tractor-trailer. The collision caused the LeSabre to strike cars in the center lane of the turnpike and after impacting several vehicles, the LeSabre burst into flames killing occupants Jeanette Urbano, 72, and Salvatore Urbano, 74, both of Passaic, N.J.; Anna Kane, 76, Rose Kane, 75, and Francis Kane, 78, all of Kearny, N.J.

The truck driver, Dewey Tyrone Thomas, 40, of Columbus, Ga., was given a blood test to test for intoxicants but has not yet been charged pending test results. Three occupants of a 1999 Jeep Cherokee struck by the LeSabre were transported to area hospitals with undisclosed injuries.

New Jersey car accidents claim the lives of thousands of people each year and result in serious, life-changing injuries for many thousands more. New Jersey auto accidents which involve tractor-trailers are especially deadly and victims are much more likely to be killed or suffer catastrophic injuries. In many cases, the survivors of New Jersey truck accidents face lengthy hospital stays, medical bills which often climb to the hundreds of thousands of dollars, and costly physical rehabilitation.

If you or a loved one has been killed or seriously injured in a New Jersey truck accident, the experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein may be able to help. After a free consultation with their New Jersey truck accident attorneys, they will launch an immediate investigation into the accident, defend their clients’ rights at all times, and work hard to hold those responsible for the accident accountable for their actions. They also help clients receive the compensation they deserve to help offset catastrophically high medical bills. To schedule a free consultation with New Jersey's skilled personal injury lawyers, call them today at 609-240-0040.

For those of us who live in New Jersey, we know that the State has some wonderful things to offer. The New Jersey shore is beautiful, there are wonderful mountains to climb and trails to hike, there are historical spots to visit and abundant shopping areas. We experience four distinct seasons, with beautiful foliage in the fall and abundant sunshine during the summer.

All of that being said, we must also face the fact that New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the nation and we do not have a major public transportation system that is effectively used. The result is a tremendous number of motorists on the road and, unfortunately, many automobile accidents.

The morning of May 29, 2009 is a good example of what occurs on our roads almost every day:

1. An overturned vehicle on the Route 80 westbound ramps to the Knowlton Rest Area.
2. An accident on Route 287 northbound north of Exit 12 in Bridgewater Township that closed the left and center lanes and led to a one-mile delay.
3. An auto accident on the New Jersey Turnpike inner roadway northbound South of Exit 12 in Woodbridge Township.
4. An accident on the Turnpike inner roadway southbound South of Exit 13 in Linden.
5. An accident on the Turnpike southbound North of Interchange 7A in Robbinsville that blocked the left lane.
6. An accident on the Turnpike northbound South of Interchange 7A in Hamilton Township that blocked the left lane.
7. An accident and vehicle off the roadway on the Turnpike northbound South of Exit 2 in Woolwich Township.

If you are involved in an auto accident in New Jersey, you should call an experienced automobile accident attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Lependorf and Silverstein have handled countless auto accident cases and we are here to let our experience and tenacity go to work for you. Call us today for a free consultation.

Amy Voorhees, a 27-year-old Evesham middle school teacher, was killed in a car accident at the intersection of Route 70 and Troth Road. According to an article in the Burlington County Times, Voorhees was on her way to work when her vehicle was struck by a pickup truck going east on the highway through the intersection. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

No charges have been filed yet against the driver of the pickup pending a police investigation. The news report says some people who witnessed the auto accident said the pickup truck ran the red light at the intersection and caused the collision. Police are still looking into whether that was true. Voorhees is reportedly the 11th motor vehicle fatality in Burlington County this year, according to New Jersey State Police statistics.

If it is determined that the driver of the pickup did run the red light, he could be held criminally liable for the accident and Voorhees' death. The driver could also be held financially responsible to Voorhees' family for their significant loss. They may be eligible to file a New Jersey wrongful death lawsuit against the driver. Wrongful death claims compensate families of deceased victims who were injured because of someone else's negligence. Typically, victims' families receive compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, loss of earnings and other related damages.

If you have suffered a similar loss because of negligence or wrongdoing, please call an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation. We have a successful track record with wrongful death claims and can assist you with your case.

A New Jersey Appellate Division Court Ruled on May 21, 2009 that a Title 59 Notice filed in 1995 sufficiently complied with the requirements of the Title 59 Act, even though the actual lawsuit was not filed until 2004. The facts of this case are as follows. While walking home from elementary school in Camden, New Jersey, on March 8, 1995, a nine year old student was struck by a car. She suffered substantial injuries including a broken ankle. On the day of the pedestrian accident in New Jersey, the student was attending an after school reading program. She was released from the after school program before 4:00 p.m. No crossing guards were on duty at the time of her release. While crossing an intersection on her way home she was struck by a motor vehicle.

New Jersey law requires that Notice must be provided to potential defendants within 90 days of an accident if the defendant is a public entity. In this case, the Camden City Board of Education was a potential defendant for not having a crossing guard at the intersection where the New Jersey pedestrian accident took place. The Camden City Board of Education was put on notice of this claim on April 4, 1995, within ninety days.

Following the filing of the plaintiff’s 2004 lawsuit, a summary judgment motion was filed by attorneys for the Camden City Board of Education. The motion asserted that the Title 59 Notice filed in April of 1995 was deficient in that it did not spell out all theories of negligence that were contained in the 2004 lawsuit. The Appellate Division Court determined that the plaintiff substantially complied with the Title 59 requirements, “…substantial compliance means that the notice has been given in a way, which though technically defective, substantially satisfies the purpose for which notices of claims are required.” Lamiero v. W. N.Y. Bd. Of Educ.,136 N.J. Super. 585,588. This Appellate Division Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff and determined that the original Notice filed back in 1995 was sufficient.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a pedestrian accident or an auto accident in New Jersey, it is important that you seek legal representation immediately. There may be public entities that need to be put on notice of the potential claim within ninety days of the accident. If too much time elapses following the accident you may severely compromise your ability to recover damages.

Please contact New Jersey’s skilled personal injury attorneys at the Princeton, New Jersey law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation regarding your case. An attorney at the Princeton, New Jersey law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein can advise you of your rights following your accident. We will be sure to protect your rights. Please contact us today to discuss your legal needs.

Gabariel Koffah Jr., 26 of Newark, was killed in a New Jersey tractor trailer accident on the turnpike in Linden, according to a news report in The Star-Ledger. Koffah was a passenger in the back seat of a Toyota Avalon traveling southbound on the turnpike. The car's driver, 25-year-old Ralph Austin, lost control of the car, struck a guardrail and then crashed into the fuel tank of a big rig driven by 59-year-old Gary Poland. Austin's car spun and crashed into the guide rail. Austin was injured but his life is not in danger, officials said. Another man, 23-year-old Angel Rodriguez, escaped with minor injuries. Poland was uninjured.

Austin has been charged with reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol for causing the serious DUI accident in New Jersey. Police also apparently charged him with drug possession after they found marijuana on him. The accident is still under investigation and officials have not said whether Austin will be charged with vehicular manslaughter.

It is illegal in New Jersey to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you have been injured because of the negligence of a drunk driver or someone operating under the influence of recreational or prescription drugs, they can be held responsible for the accident or injuries. You may be entitled to compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Please contact an experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein to schedule your free consultation and case evaluation.

An Ocean County jury has awarded more than $17 million to a Lacey family that was injured in a 2006 auto accident in New Jersey, according to this news report in the Asbury Park Press. Jennifer Roden, 30, was on the way to a new car dealer with her 33-year-old husband, Alvin, and their three young children on Aug. 5, 2006 when a Hyundai crossed over the center line on Route 9 and struck Roden's Taurus head-on.

One of Roden's daughters, Madeline Kearney, 6 years old at the time of the crash, suffered a spinal injury that left her with permanent leg paralysis. Her 4-year-old sister, Victoria, suffered a head injury and needed emergency stomach surgery and 4-month-old Gavin Roden suffered a traumatic brain injury that required extensive treatment, the news report said. Jennifer Roden suffered broken ankles in the New Jersey car crash. The driver of the Hyundai, 24-year-old Corey Clifford, did not face criminal charges in the crash. He was driving home from work after an early morning shift at New Jersey Manufacturers, which was also named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

The company is expected to appeal the judgment. A number of legal issues must still be sorted out before the family gets any money from the settlement. A provision in New Jersey law known as prejudgment interest – an additional sum that adds to civil penalties based on the amount of time that has passed since the accident – would bring the ultimate award to more than $20 million.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an auto accident as a result of another driver's negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation. As seen in this case, if the negligent driver was on-the-job at the time of the accident or returning from work, then the employer could also be held liable. There are many complex legal issues involved in such cases. Please contact the knowledgeable and experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein to find out more about your rights and legal options.

Regina Kriklivy, a 14-year-old Staten Island girl, was killed after she was ejected from her family's minivan on the Interstate 80 in New Jersey's Roxbury Township. According to this news report in the Staten Island Advance, the minivan collided with a school van carrying 14 children from New Jersey and started a chain reaction crash that also involved a big rig. Regina's father Oleg, mother Larisa and brother, Arthur, suffered non-life threatening injuries. The children in the school van also did not suffer major injuries. The truck driver escaped with minor injuries. Police don't believe weather was a factor in the New Jersey car accident although there were heavy thunderstorms in the area at the time.

Although it is not clear what caused this particular New Jersey auto accident, we know from experience that most auto accidents are caused because of someone's negligence, inattention or error. If you have been involved in an auto accident in New Jersey caused by another driver's negligence, you may be able to file a claim against them for property damage, personal damage that includes medical expenses, pain and suffering and future loss of earning. In certain cases, victims can also seek punitive damages.

All plaintiffs must support their New Jersey personal injury claims by showing that:
• The driver was negligent and failed to use due care or violated the law (rules of the road).
• The driver's negligence caused the accident and
• You suffered damages as direct result of the accident

In any such claim, you must never proceed without talking to an experienced New Jersey auto accident attorney, who has extensive knowledge of personal injury law, can work his or her way through the court system, negotiate successfully with insurance companies and make sure you receive fair compensation for all the accident-related damages you suffered. Please call Lependorf & Silverstein today to discuss your New Jersey personal injury claim.

According to this article, a recent multi-vehicle auto accident near Roxbury has claimed the life of one person and resulted in injuries for several people. New Jersey State Police officials say that the accident occurred in the eastbound lanes of I-80 near mile marker 28 and involved a tractor-trailer, a car and a 15-passenger commuter van. The victims have not yet been identified, but authorities did confirm that the person who was killed was ejected from the car and thrown an undisclosed distance. The cause of the car accident in New Jersey remains under investigation.

It is still unknown how many passengers were riding in the van when the crash occurred but authorities say that the van left the road, careened down a steep embankment, and landed in the eastbound lanes of Route 46. Police investigating the accident claim that the accident caused the tractor-trailer to overturn and spill its load of steel beams across the roadway. It remains unclear whether or not the car or passenger van hit the truck or any spilled debris on the road.

Assigning liability to a multi-vehicle accident that has caused injuries or death can be complex.

Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. is an experienced New Jersey personal injury law firm that helps victims of car accidents and truck accidents receive the compensation they deserve to help with steep medical bills and other damages.

Their New Jersey auto accident attorneys can answer any questions you may have and will launch an immediate investigation into the cause of the accident. To schedule a free consultation with experienced New Jersey car accident lawyers, call Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today at 609.240.0040.

An Ocean County car accident in New Jersey has claimed the life of a high school wrestler and resulted in injuries of six other teens when the car they were riding in struck a utility pole and rolled. This article claims that authorities are unsure about the cause of the fatal auto accident, which occurred in the southbound lanes of Route 35 near Toms River. The accident remains under investigation.

Law enforcement officials say that Anthony Casselli, 17, a well-regarded high school wrestler from Roselle Park, was a passenger in the car when it crashed, killing him and causing the injuries of six other teenage passengers. After the accident, Casselli was rushed to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune where he died from his injuries after arrival. The accident caused Route 35 to be closed for several hours after the accident occurred.

Despite efforts to teach and inform young drivers, New Jersey car accidents claim the lives of far too many teenagers each year. In the wake of a fatal car accident, victims’ families often have many important questions. They may also be approached by insurance companies who pressure them to sign documents. The skilled personal injury lawyers in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. strongly advise against signing anything until after it has been reviewed by an attorney. Signing something without fully understanding it could forfeit a family’s ability to seek damages.

If you or a member of your family has been hurt or killed in an auto accident, the experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. may be able to help you receive the compensation you deserve to offset steep medical expenses and other accident-related costs. To schedule a free consultation with their skilled New Jersey personal injury attorneys, call them today at 609.240.0040.

According to this recent article in the Star-Ledger, a Newark man died recently when the car he was riding in crashed into a semi-trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike in Linden. Officials investigating the truck accident in New Jersey claim that Gabariel Koffah, Jr., 26, was riding in the back seat of a Toyota Avalon southbound on the turnpike when the driver, Ralph Austin, 25, lost control of the car.

After Austin lost control of the car, the car struck a guardrail and bounced into the center lane of traffic where it struck the fuel tank of a tractor-trailer driven by Gary Poland, 59. Officials claim that Austin’s car then spun around into the truck’s wheels and then crashed head-on into a guardrail. The medical examiner pronounced Koffah dead at the scene from his injuries.

Austin’s injuries were severe enough to warrant evacuation by helicopter to University Hospital in Newark where he remains with undisclosed injuries. Another passenger in the Avalon, Angel Rodriguez, 23, of Newark, sustained minor injuries for which he was treated and released from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. The truck’s driver was not injured in the accident and was not charged with any traffic violations.

Continue reading "Linden Truck Accident Kills Newark Man" »

Rockaway Township Officer Joseph Udina suffered minor injuries early on the morning of February 28, 2009, when an SUV operated by an alleged drunk driver struck his patrol car, according to this report in the Daily Record. Law enforcement officials investigating the accident say that Officer Udina’s patrol car was parked on the shoulder of Route 80 with lights flashing after he had pulled over an alleged drunken driver. Officials said that while Udina was in his patrol car assisting Officer Dean Testa, his patrol car was struck by a Jeep Cherokee driven by Robert Leigh, 36, of Wharton.

The car accident in New Jersey occurred just after 2:00 a.m. on Route 80 West near the Dover exit. Police say that Udina was treated for minor injuries at Morristown Memorial Hospital and released. Law enforcement officials claim that Leigh was driving while intoxicated when he collided with the rear of Officer Udina’s patrol car, causing extensive damage to it and the SUV that the patrol car was pushed into in the collision.

Blood alcohol tests showed that Leigh had a blood alcohol level of .19 percent at the time of the accident, and he is facing charges of driving while intoxicated by New Jersey State Police. Officer Udina was very fortunate to suffer only minor injuries in the drunk driving accident in New Jersey, but many people are not so lucky.

Continue reading "Rockaway Township Auto Accident Injures Police Officer" »

According to this report from NJ.com, a former Roxbury resident has been sentenced to 15 years for causing a car accident that claimed the lives of three people in 2006. Twenty-seven-year-old Damian D'Aleo admitted to driving drunk and causing a September 29, 2006 auto accident in New Jersey that killed three people. The state Superior Court in Morristown sentenced D'Aleo to 15 years in prison on February 19, 2009, after he pled guilty in January to three counts of death by auto.

Law enforcement officials say that on September 29, 2006, D'Aleo’s Honda CRV rear-ended a Jeep Cherokee in the westbound lanes of Route 80 in Roxbury, which caused the Jeep to cross the center lines and hit two other vehicles in the eastbound lanes. Julia Bowen of New York, the Cherokee’s driver, and her passenger, retired New York City Police Officer Theodore Williams were killed in the accident. Also killed was a father of five, Donald Dineen, Jr., of Bushkill, PA, who suffered fatal injuries when the Jeep struck his car. Dineen worked as a doorman in Manhattan.

Over 41,000 lives are lost each year in auto accidents in the U.S. and many of these deaths are caused by negligent drivers operating their vehicles while intoxicated. If you or someone you care for has been injured or killed in a New Jersey car accident, you may be able to recover compensation to offset the steep costs of medical care and other expenses. The knowledgeable and skilled wrongful death attorneys in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein have helped clients recover millions in damages over the years.

Our top New Jersey personal injury lawyers will work hard on your behalf, protect your rights at all times, and help you receive the financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyers, call Lependorf & Silverstein today at 609.240.0040.

A man in Spotswood, who was blinded and paralyzed in an Old Bridge New Jersey auto accident in 2004 caused by an intoxicated friend at the wheel, has been awarded more than $2 million by a jury for his injuries, according to this report from a news website. A New Brunswick Superior Court jury decided on a $3.25 million verdict, but found 49-year-old Craig Staffa 35 percent liable for the car accident in New Jersey. Staffa's friend, 45-year-old John Buckalew, is serving time in state prison for aggravated assault in connection with the crash.

Buckalew apparently bears 45 percent of the liability, but has no assets to pay Staffa. The third party in the lawsuit, Moore's Bar & Liquors on Route 35 in Cliffwood Beach, has been ordered to pay $625,000 for 20 percent of the liability for serving alcoholic drinks to Buckalew, who was already drunk.

Continue reading "Spotswood Car Accident Victim Awarded $2 Million For Injuries" »

Two people were injured in a New Jersey truck accident on the Interstate 295 the morning of Feb. 21 in Lawrence after a box truck driver crashed into the rear of a Mercedes Benz sport utility vehicle, according to this news report. The crash apparently ruptured a tank on the truck causing fuel to leak onto the roadway, New Jersey State Police officials said. The driver of the truck was uninjured, but two people who were passengers in the SUV suffered injuries and were sent to an area hospital for treatment. Police said the box truck driver would be issued a ticket for causing the wreckage.

In cases that involve big rigs or commercial trucks, both the driver and his or her employer could be held liable if they cause an injury accident. Where there is a clear determination of fault, injured victims will be able to collect compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of future medical treatment and other damages. But often, the aftermath of a truck accident or an auto accident in New Jersey can be very complex, involving eyewitness testimony, insurance companies and physical evidence.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey auto accident or truck accident, you would be well-advised to retain the services of a top New Jersey truck accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein to discuss your case. We will fight to protect your rights and make sure you get the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.

Samuel Nappers, Jr., 60, of Hightstown, New Jersey, was operating his motor vehicle in Hopewell, New Jersey when he lost control of his car as he tried to negotiate a curve on Route 29 at 11:57 p.m. As a result, he struck the retaining wall outside of Washington Crossing State Park. The wall, which is part of the park, is made up of stones and is not one smooth surface and the impact of the car was intense enough to knock some of those stones loose.

Nappers had two passengers in his car. The impact was severe enough that Nappers and his two passengers suffered fractures and all were transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Langhorne, Pa.

Who was at fault for this New Jersey Auto accident? Most people’s initial reaction would be to say that Mr. Nappers was solely at fault, especially since he was issued a citation for careless driving. This, in fact, may be the case but there are other avenues that also must be explored. This area of Route 29 may have presented a particularly serious danger to motorists and the municipality may have been aware of this because of past accidents and/or studies done. With proper investigation, the municipality may be held at least partially liable.

Whenever a municipality can potentially be held responsible for a hazardous roadway in New Jersey, formal notice must be filed on that entity within ninety (90) days. This is called a Notice of Tort Claim and falls under Title 59. If this step is not taken, the injured party, absent a few exceptions, loses his or her right to ever bring a claim against the municipality.

If you are involved in an accident, it is imperative that you contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney will be able to analyze your case from all angles and make sure that your rights are protected.

Three people suffered severe head injuries in a minivan rollover crash on Route 55 in Millville, New Jersey, according to this news report in South Jersey News Online. The Ford Windstar van driven by Richard Andrus Jr., 44, and was northbound on Route 55 when for an unknown reason it left the roadway and went over a grassy median.

The van spun and rolled over when the driver tried to overcorrect. Both Andrus and his front-seat passenger, 48-year-old Mark Hitchner, were ejected on to the roadway. The passenger in the rear seat, 50-year-old Joann Hitchner, was still inside the van and conscious, State police said. The investigation is focusing on whether Andrus and Hitchner were wearing seatbelts and whether alcohol was involved in this New Jersey auto accident. Both men suffered severe injuries to their legs, arms and head.

Rollover accidents cause the most number of fatalities in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), each year there are more than 40,000 motor vehicle accidents out of which more than 10,000 are rollover crashes. These accidents often end up in major injuries or deaths because the vehicle’s roof can cave in on its occupants causing traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. Some of these accidents also occur because of auto product defects in vehicles that could cause them to become unstable or cause the driver to lose control.

A skilled New Jersey personal injury attorney will have the vehicle examined for malfunction and other product defects such as seat restraint failures and tire defects. Auto makers are liable to vehicle occupants who have been injured because of their defectively manufactured or poorly designed vehicles. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey rollover accident, please call Lependorf & Silverstein today to talk about your legal rights and options.

Two women in their forties were killed on Monday, January 12, 2009 in Union Township, New Jersey when a dump truck initiated a seven car pile-up on Route 78. In addition to the dump truck, a tractor-trailer, which jackknifed, also was involved in the New Jersey Truck crash. The two women were operating a Toyota Corolla and a Hyundai. The accident began when the dump truck which was headed westbound, crossed into the eastbound lanes of travel, struck the tractor-trailer, and overturned. The impact caused the tractor-trailer to jackknife. The dump truck driver suffered only minor injuries. The dump truck is owned by the Fusella Group of East Hanover, New Jersey.

When commercial vehicles such as dump trucks and tractor trailers are involved in accidents, the drivers of these vehicles are often employees of a company that owns the commercial vehicle. Often these companies will own an entire fleet of vehicles. The company is typically responsible for the maintenance and inspection of the vehicles. If there is a mechanical malfunction such as brake failures, the company will often be held liable for such a failure. If the truck accident in New Jersey is caused by the driver who may have been operating the commercial vehicle in a reckless or careless manner, the company is required to maintain liability coverage that covers its driver/employee.

Accidents involving private passenger vehicles lead to better survival rates. Accidents that involve one or more commercial vehicles, such as a dump truck or tractor trailer, and private passenger vehicles, lead to an increased fatality rate for the operators of the private passenger vehicles. Unfortunately, the two women who were killed in this accident in all likelihood came face to face with large commercial vehicles against which their smaller passenger cars had no chance. It is important to seek legal advice as soon after this type of tragic incident as possible. Witnesses must be interviewed and photographs for evidence must be taken before totaled vehicles are junked. Insurance companies deploy their representatives to the scene immediately, you need to have your rights protected from the beginning as well. Contact a Princeton, NJ pickup truck accident attorney at the law firm of Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. for a free consultation. The attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have successfully litigated cases for millions of dollars involving large, commercial vehicles. Let the Lependorf & Silverstein team go to work for you today.

On January 3, 2009 Dwain Allen, an 18-year-old Carteret resident was driving a stolen 2003 Lincoln Navigator south in the northbound lane of Industrial Avenue in Carteret when he crashed into a 2005 Kenworth tractor trailer. The tractor trailer was being operated by Keith Hoover, 48, of Pennsylvania Furnace, Pa. Allen was pronounced dead at the scene of the Carteret auto accident.

Apparently the Navigator had been reported stolen about a week ago and was spotted by Rutgers University police on Neilson Street in New Brunswick early Saturday morning. Officers tried to pull the SUV over, but Allen sped off, authorities said.

Officers pursued the vehicle but Allen would not stop and he ultimately collided with Hoover’s truck.

If Keith Hoover, the operator of the tractor-trailer was injured in the New Jersey truck accident, he can seek compensation from a number of different areas. If he was working at the time, he may have Worker’s Compensation benefits available to him. He may be able to pursue Uninsured Motorist benefits from his own automobile insurance policy since the accident involved a stolen vehicle. The estate of Mr. Allen may be pursued for damages. The police may be responsible for an impermissible high speed pursuit. The owner of the stolen vehicle may bear some liability, depending on the specific facts of the theft.

In an accident such as this, it is imperative to call an experienced personal injury attorney in New Jersey as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Lependorf & Silverstein offer free consultations to injured victims. Call us today at (609) 240-0040.

We are asked all the time about what the Statute of Limitations is in an automobile accident case in New Jersey. The term, Statute of Limitations, refers to the maximum period of time that you have to file a lawsuit after an automobile accident occurs.

As the law now stands, the Statute of Limitations to bring a lawsuit for pain and suffering arising from an auto accident against a responsible party is two years from the date of the accident, or, in the case of a minor, two years from the date of the minor’s eighteenth birthday. This means that a formal Complaint actually has to be filed with a County Court within this time period. Merely visiting a lawyer during this period and/or having that lawyer put parties on notice is not enough.

We always recommend that if you are involved in a car accident in New Jersey, it is extremely important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Some injured victims may believe that since they have two years from the date of the accident, they have time to wait before retaining an attorney. This is often a fatal mistake.

There are some instances, such as where the responsible party is a public entity like a City owned vehicle, where formal notification must be made to the municipality within ninety (90) days or your right to sue are lost.

In almost every other automobile accident case, there is a lot of work that an experienced NJ personal injury attorney wants to get started with as soon as possible. There are issues related to liability proofs, property damage, medical expenses, medical treatment, municipal court matters, etc. that your attorney will want to get involved with as soon as possible.

If you have been injured as a result of an automobile accident in NJ, call the Law Office of Lependorf & Silverstein as soon as possible. We are happy to provide you with a free consultation to make sure that all of your rights are protected.

A Jersey City family of four suffered severe injuries in a Thanksgiving Day crash after they were involved in a head-on collision on Route 440 with a wrong-way driver, according to this article in the Jersey Journal. Injured in this Jersey City auto accident were Dennis Almario, 31; Jenny Almario, 27; their 8-year-old daughter and 1-year-old son who were not identified.

They were visiting family in Bayonne and returning home when the accident reportedly occurred. Dennis Almario was driving north on Route 440 and was near Avenue C exit ramp when Alkex Gerashchenko, 26, driving his Nissan Altima southbound on the wrong side of the concrete median hit the Almarios’ Honda head-on. A Jeep Grand Cherokee then smashed into the back of the Honda. But the driver of the Jeep, 20-year-old Matthew Semanik, told police he was not able to stop in time although he slammed on his brakes. Gerashchenko was reportedly driving with a suspended license in a car that belonged to his girlfriend’s mother. Semanik and two others in his vehicle did not suffer injuries.

Auto accidents in New Jersey can have tremendous financial consequences for victims’ families. In this case, especially, I cannot imagine the hardship this young family of four must be going through. The father and mother – Jenny and Dennis Almario – are said to be in critical condition and both their children have been hospitalized with serious injuries. It is imperative that other close family members contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney to find out what compensation the Almario family may be entitled to. A skilled New Jersey auto accident attorney will be able to advise them about the injured victims’ rights and legal options.

A teenage boy was ejected from a vehicle on December 14th in an early morning New Jersey auto accident on Barrets Run Road near Trench Road, in Hopewell Township.

A white Chevy Cavalier with three occupants ran off the road into a plowed field around 3:00 a.m. The car eventually rolled over and came to a stop upright.

The driver, Brandon Peter, 17, of Hopewell Township, was ticketed for driving under the influence and careless driving.

The front passenger, Joseph Zirkle, 17, also of Hopewell Township, was ejected from the vehicle and was transported to the South Jersey Healthcare-Regional Medical Center, in Vineland, then later to Cooper University Hospital, in Camden, for treatment of back pain and lacerations.

Passengers that are seriously injured in an auto accident in New Jersey are almost always eligible to be compensated for their pain and suffering, as well as other economic and non-economic damages. It is important to call an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney as soon as possible. There is investigation that must be conducted and forms that must be properly filled out.

In New Jersey there is no fault automobile insurance. What this means is that your own auto insurance company pays your medical bills, regardless of whose fault the accident was. In a case such as this, Joseph Zirkle’s medical bills will most likely be paid by his parents auto insurance. This sounds strange to many people, but it is the law in New Jersey.

If you have been involved in an auto accident, call the New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation. We can help you navigate through this tricky process and ensure that you are fully and fairly compensated.

One person died and two suffered critical injuries in a November 29, 2008 auto accident in Cherry Hill after a car made an illegal U-turn on the New Jersey Turnpike and was struck by another vehicle. According to this news report, the fatal accident occurred when one car traveling southbound made the illegal turn and was hit by a vehicle traveling north on the Turnpike. The two people who were seriously injured were taken to an area hospital while a third person in said to have suffered minor injuries.

This is indeed a tragic crash, which apparently occurred because one of the drivers did not follow the rules of the road. There is no question that the person who made the illegal U-turn on the Turnpike committed a serious traffic violation. The other vehicle obviously did not expect the driver to make a turn at that location. In this case, it is clear that the driver who made the U-turn should be held responsible for the fatal injuries as well as the injuries suffered by the others in this New Jersey car crash.

In any auto accident, the driver who is responsible for causing the accident is held accountable for the damages caused including death, injury and property damage. Usually, victims are compensated by the at fault driver’s insurance company. If that driver does not have auto insurance or sufficient insurance to cover the damages, then the victims may be able to receive compensation from their own auto insurance policy’s “uninsured” or “underinsured” motorist coverage. The victims and their families would be well-served to immediately contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer who will advise them of their rights and legal options.

A driver, who was trying to park his car at a Woodcliff Lake supermarket lost control of his car on November 28, 2008 and ran over Nancy Helfrich, a 64-year-old woman, the Bergen County Record reports. Solly Tetefsky, 73, reportedly pulled into a parking spot in front of the A & P store when her foot “got stuck” on the accelerator.

Tetefsky’s car went over a pedestrian sidewalk and over a small flower bed, crossed a main driveway of the store and struck Helfrich. Tetefsky was not injured in this auto vs. pedestrian accident, but Helfrich was taken to the hospital with leg injuries. Tetefsky has not been cited or arrested pending a police investigation.

A lot of questions remain to be answered in this auto accident in Woodcliff Lake. It is not known whether Tetefsky suffered a medical condition. This incident also throws the spotlight on an important and often-ignored issue of senior drivers. This is one of the reasons why senior drivers must be carefully monitored and be required to stop driving if they have medical issues or if their health deteriorates. Senior drivers, who cannot see or react properly, are not only a danger to themselves but also to other motorists and pedestrians.

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a New Jersey pedestrian accident, please call a skilled New Jersey auto accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein to find out about your rights and legal options. Negligent drivers who caused the accident and your injuries can be held financially responsible and made to compensate you for your medical bills, loss of wages and other expenses you incur as a result of the accident and injuries.

Sixteen people, including a 9-month-old baby, were injured in a Glen Ridge three-vehicle accident at an intersection on October 26, 2008. According to a news report in the New Jersey Star-Ledger, the accident was caused by the driver of a Ford Expedition who ran a red light on Ridgewood Avenue and crashed into a gray Honda Accord before swerving into the path of an oncoming minivan as well.

There were reportedly 14 passengers in the Expedition. The 9-month-old was reportedly ejected through a rear passenger window when the SUV tilted sharply to the right during the collision. All 14 of the Expedition passengers as well as the drivers of the Honda and the minivan suffered injuries and were transported to area hospitals. Four, including two children that may have been the victims of a defective car seat, were said to be in critical condition.

This is a horrific auto accident. News and official reports place the fault on the driver of the Expedition who apparently broke the law by failing to stop for a red light at an intersection. The driver of the Expedition would no doubt be held responsible for the accident and resulting injuries to his or her passengers as well the other motorists. It is indeed a relief that no one was killed in this collision.

The injured victims would be well-advised to retain the services of an expert New Jersey car accident lawyer, who will fight for their rights and get them the compensation they rightfully deserve. Where there is negligence and wrongdoing involved, auto accident victims are entitled to compensation for medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey auto accident, please call Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation.

Ada Marlib, 82, was killed in a Monroe Township auto accident on October 27, 2008 when her car struck a street sweeper and then crashed into another sport utility vehicle. According to a news report, the accident occurred on Perrineville Road north of School House Road. Marlib was pronounced dead at the scene.

She was reportedly traveling north on Perrineville when she struck the back of the street sweeper. Her car then went into the southbound lanes and crashed into an oncoming Ford Explorer driven by 72-year-old Seymour Behm, also of Monroe. The driver of the street sweeper, 46-year-old Michael Vinvenzi of Tom River, was uninjured. Behm reportedly escaped the New Jersey SUV accident with minor injuries.

According to statistics from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 722 fatal car accidents in New Jersey in 2006, including 31 fatalities in Newark and nine in Jersey City. That denotes a 3 percent increase over the year before.

If you have been seriously injured or have lost a loved one in a New Jersey car crash because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to hold the negligent parties liable for their actions. Auto accidents can cause severe damage and expenses to innocent victims who deserve justice and deserve rightful compensation for what they have suffered. Victims and/or their families are entitled to compensation for medical bills or funeral costs; damage repair costs, physical injuries, wrongful death pain or suffering. To schedule a free case evaluation, please call a Princeton auto accident attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein today.

A 32-year-old man from Nazareth, Pennsylvania, was killed in a fatal New Jersey workplace accident in Totowa after his dump truck rear-ended a car, which was traveling behind a slow-moving lawn tractor owned by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, police officials said. According to this news report, Robert Berger was driving west on the highway when his dump truck went up a hill and rear-ended a Grand Marquis whose driver, 88-year-old Edward Muldoon, had braked to avoid hitting the tractor.

Berger was killed in the crash. Muldoon suffered a back injury and the driver of the tractor, 47-year-old Ronald Kichko, was taken to the hospital with eye and head injuries, the report said.

Investigators will likely look into why the lawn tractor was traveling so slowly down a hill where motorists behind would have no indication of the slow-moving vehicle. If the driver of the tractor is held responsible for causing this fatal crash, both he and his employer – in this case, the New Jersey Department of Transportation – could be held liable for the accident, injuries and fatality.

The victims in this case would be well-advised to contact an experienced and knowledgeable New Jersey truck accident attorney who will help protect their rights help them secure the compensation they rightfully deserve. Auto accidents, especially those involving multiple parties and governmental agencies, can be complex and challenging. If you or someone you love has been severely injured or killed in a New Jersey auto accident, please call Lependorf & Silverstein to pursue and protect your legal rights.

A 56-year-old man was critically injured in an October 24, 2008 Clifton pedestrian accident after he was struck by a car while crossing the street. According to this news report in the Bergen County Record, the victim was walking west of Paulison near Clifton Avenue when he was struck by 34-year-old Orlandito Rodriguez, who was driving a silver 2002 Acura traveling south.

The victim was struck in the leg and suffered head injuries with potential traumatic brain injury. He was admitted to an area hospital in the intensive care unit, the report stated. The driver, Rodriguez, has not yet been cited or arrested pending an investigation. Police also say Rodriguez did not seem to have been operating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. According to the news report, police in Clifton have responded to 76 pedestrian accidents just this year.

New Jersey drivers have a legal duty to watch for pedestrians on the road. Unfortunately, New Jersey has a particularly high percentage of pedestrian accident related fatalities. Statistics show that more than 20 percent of New Jersey traffic deaths in 2005 were pedestrian accident fatalities. By comparison, the national percentage for pedestrian accidents was 11.2 percent.

Pedestrian accidents could commonly occur because of driver inattention, error, distraction, speed or driving under the influence. The victim and his family would be well-advised to contact an experienced Princeton personal injury attorney who has an excellent track record with pedestrian accidents. If you have been injured in an auto or pedestrian accident, please call Lependorf & Silverstein for a free and comprehensive consultation.

Two drivers were injured in an auto accident on Route 206 in Princeton on October 27, 2008, according to a news report in the Times of Trenton. Min Wang, 57, of Ewing was reportedly traveling south on Route 206 between Quaker and Hutchinson roads when she failed to negotiate a right curve on the roadway.

Police said Wang crossed the double yellow line and hit the left side of a car driven by 84-year-old Candace Ashmun of Basking Ridge. The impact of the crash tore the left wheel of Ashmun’s car and caused it to roll over twice, according to the news report. Ashmun reportedly suffered cuts to her wrist and contusions. Wang also complained of pain and was transported to an area hospital.

In this Princeton rollover accident, initial police reports suggest that Min Wang was at fault. Police traffic investigators must certainly be looking into whether Wang was traveling above the speed limit, was distracted or was operating her vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

As New Jersey personal injury attorneys, we see people seriously injured or killed every day because of negligent drivers. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2005, 3 million drivers are injured or killed on our roads and highways. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries in a Princeton auto accident please contact an experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein to receive a free consultation regarding your case.

Stephan Gubar, 61, of Highland Lakes in Vernon, was killed in a Wayne motorcycle accident after he was struck by a motorist on Route 23. According to this news report, 51-year-old Ernest Gaud of Rahway, suffered a medical episode at the time of the crash and lost control of his vehicle, striking the cyclist. Gaud will not face any criminal charges in connection with this incident, police said.

Gubar suffered severe head injuries in the crash that later became fatal, which occurred when Gubar was stopped in traffic near Packanack Lake Road. Gaud’s car knocked him and his motorcycle from behind. Officials also say Gubar wasn’t wearing a federally approved helmet. Gubar’s helmet reportedly flew off his head on impact.

If you have lost a loved one in a New Jersey auto accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation by filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent parties. The New Jersey auto accident attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein have helped hundreds of clients investigate these types of cases and determine who should be held accountable for the injuries and loss.

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in a New Jersey traffic accident, please call an experienced and knowledgeable New Jersey car accident lawyer at Lependorf & Silverstein. We will make sure your case is thoroughly investigated and those responsible are held accountable for their negligence.

Five members of the same family were injured in a three-car collision in Bethlehem Township along Route 78 east in Hunterdon County. According to an article in The Star-Ledger, 52-year-old Rudy Rios was driving his family in a sport utility vehicle on Route 78 in Bethlehem Township when his SUV crashed into a disabled pickup truck, which had been involved in another auto accident moments earlier.

Rios reportedly fractured his collar bone and his wife, 47-year-old Adria Rios, broke her leg. Adria Rios was in the front passenger seat. The couple’s two teenage children and their grandmother were treated for minor injuries. The driver of the stalled pickup was uninjured.

It’s a relief that this New Jersey truck accident did not result in more serious injuries or fatalities. It could have been much worse. It is not quite clear from the news report as to whether Rudy Rios was able to stop in time to avoid colliding with the pickup truck. In auto accident cases, it is very important to determine the cause and pinpoint who was responsible for the accident as soon as possible.

This is particularly important if you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident. Victims of New Jersey traffic accidents are saddled with enormous costs such as medical bills, cost of medication and lost wages. An experienced New Jersey auto accident attorney can help investigate your case independently and hold the negligent parties responsible for the damages they have caused.

Martin Robinson, 45, was killed in a fatal car accident in Trenton when he was hit by a car at the street intersection of East State and South Cook Avenue. A recent article in The Trenton Times said the auto collision happened just past midnight as Robinson was riding his bicycle near South Cook Avenue.

Robinson was on the sidewalk heading west on East State Street, according to the police. 39-year-old Katrina L. Fayson who was also driving west on East State Street hit Robinson as he turned into the path of the car at the South Cook intersection. Robinson suffered a serious head injury and died shortly after at Fuld hospital.

Continue reading "Trenton Auto vs. Bicycle Accident Kills Man" »

A motorcycle versus car accident in Willingboro, a town in Burlington County, killed Alvin Townsend, 28, according to this recent report.

Nineteen-year-old Noah Pierre, a Willingboro resident was driving his car the evening of Aug. 9 near Levitt Parkway when he hit the motorcycle being driven by Townsend. Police said Townsend was seriously injured in the collision and later died at the Cooper Trauma Center in Camden. Pierre has been summoned for failing to stop and yield at a stop sign, said the article.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatalities involving motorcycles are disproportionately higher representing five percent of all highway fatalities each year. Yet motorcycles account for only two percent of all registered vehicles in the United States. Also, statistics show that more motorcycle accidents occur in the year during the summer months of April to September and also accidents increase in the Friday-Sunday period.

Though the article states the accident is still being investigated, it appears Pierre failed to stop his car and hit the motorcycle, which had the right of way. Pierre owed a responsibility to other road users and to obey traffic laws. The Townsend family has suffered a tragic blow in an accident that should have never happened and Townsend’s dependants deserve a rightful compensation for their loss. Please contact our experienced New Jersey motorcycle accident attorneys at Lependorf and Silverstein to see how to best fight your case.

A 48-year-old man died and four suffered severe injuries when a car slammed into a van on the New Jersey Turnpike in Newark, The Star-Ledger reports. The New Jersey auto accident reportedly occurred in the Interchange 15E in the northbound lanes of the eastern spur, according to State police officials.

The incident happened when a 2004 Honda Civic driven by 27-year-old Benjamin Paz of West New York rear-ended a 2002 GMC Savannah driven by 42-year-old Mazhar Ali of Brooklyn. The van reportedly rolled over and crashed into a concrete barrier. The unidentified passenger who died in the accident was hit by flying debris, concrete and other construction equipment. Two other passengers in the van – Wholi Khan and Nima Ertseramy – were injured. The names of two others who were injured were not released.

There were 722 fatal New Jersey car accidents in 2006. That number included 31 fatalities in Newark and nine in Jersey City. That number is also a 3 percent increase over the previous years.

If you have been involved in a New Jersey auto accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be able to file a claim against that person for property damage, personal injury and in certain cases, punitive damages. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey auto accident, please call a top New Jersey personal injury attorney at Lependorf & Silverstein for a free consultation. We will help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

A 5-year-old boy suffered serious injuries after an auto accident in Williams Township when a minivan in which he and others were riding collided with a Chevrolet truck, according to this news report . According to Pennsylvania State Police, the driver of the minivan, 29-year-old Rodolfo Arambulo, pulled out of the Interstate Market parking lot on Industrial Drive and into the truck’s path.

Gabriel Arambulo, 5, suffered head injuries while other passengers, 34-year-old Amy Arambulo, and 1-year-old Damian Arambulo were not injured. Another 4-year-old boy, Julian Arambulo, reportedly suffered pain from a seatbelt. The driver of the Chevy truck, 27-year-old Robert C, Herbst, was not injured, but his truck was severely damaged. Charges against Rodolfo Arambulo are pending.

Continue reading "Boy Suffers Severe Head Injuries In Williams Township Auto Accident" »

A 5-year-old boy has died in a tragic hit-and-run auto accident in Queens when two teenagers drag racing in their car hit the sport utility vehicle the boy was riding in, according to a CBS News report. The article states the boy, Jordan McLean, was ejected from his aunt’s SUV after the collision occurred. Jordan’s mother, who was also a passenger in the vehicle, suffered injuries and is recovering in a local hospital, according to the report.

Police are now searching for two teenagers who they believe caused the fatal accident, which happened at the intersection of 109th Avenue and 164th Place in Jamaica. To worsen matters, many neighbors say that this accident was nothing out of the ordinary and that street racing is something that happens all the time in this neighborhood. According to Jordan’s aunt, who was interviewed by the TV station, there were two cars racing down the street and one of them, a BMW, hit the SUV. Police say the teens abandoned their totaled vehicle and fled the scene of the accident.

Continue reading "5-Year-Old Boy Dies In Queens Street Racing Accident " »

Three Roseto residents were injured in a Blairstown Township auto accident after an unidentified driver swerved across a double yellow line and forced them off the road, according to an article in the Express Times. The unknown driver, reportedly traveling in a silver-colored vehicle, caused Linda Piperato to go off the road and strike a road sign and utility pole, the article states.

Piperato, her 36-year-old son Jerome and her 41-year-old daughter, Robyn, were all transported to local hospitals following the accident. They all suffered injuries, but the report does not say how serious those injuries were. Anyone with information about this auto accident and subsequent injury is asked to call Officer Nicholas Falcicehio at 908-362-7499.

Officials are obviously looking for the driver in the silver car who caused this unfortunate new jersey car accident. Eyewitness reports are absolutely important in these accident cases where there have been injuries and damages caused. The first thing an auto accident victim must do after a crash is to seek immediate medical attention. Even minor or moderate injuries, which don’t appear serious, must be looked at and treated right away so that the situation doesn’t get worse.

Continue reading "Roseto Auto Accident Injures Three" »

In a move that will hopefully save lives in the future, the Department of Transportation and Logan Township have agreed to lower the speed limit on a dangerous mile-long stretch of Center Square Road from 45mph to 40mph. The change comes after a fatal New Jersey Auto accident claimed the life of a local teenager earlier this year.

The affected section of the road which runs between Township Line Road and Heron Drive passes through Logan, Woolwich and Swedesboro. Now that county freeholders have agreed to lower the limit, new signs should go up in a few days. Logan Township also recently approved an expenditure of $3,000 to improve lighting along the sidewalk near the roadway.

The move follows the tragic death of a 13 year old teenager who was struck in a fatal truck accident while crossing Center Square Road on January 3rd. Her parents attended a recent freeholder meeting and begged for a change. At that time, Gloucester County ordered a traffic study, which determined there was no evidence that excessive speed was a problem. The studies finding allowed the change to be made quickly.

Continue reading "Speed Limit To Be Cut In Response To Fatal Accident" »

This is an unusual story that draws concerns over the potential liability a motorist can face for injuring a passenger in a New Jersey auto accident, especially when the driver is a public servant performing duties at the time of the crash.

Sue Marie Podolski was arrested in the early morning hours of Oct. 30 after police responded to a dispute she was having with a friend. While she was strapped into the backseat of Cpl. Robert Riva’s police cruiser on her way to the police station, the automobile collided with a deer in Hunterdon County, leaving Podolski with an abrasion on her neck from her seat belt.

According to Podolski, however, the injury did not end with the abrasion. She is in constant pain and has had one shoulder surgery since the time of the auto accident, and is scheduled to have another very soon. She has filed a lawsuit against the officer and the Readington Township seeking monies to help pay for her medical costs. The suit claims that Officer Riva was negligent and that he should have avoided the animal in the October 2005 crash.

Continue reading "Ex-Suspect Sues Arresting Officer, Township Over Crash" »