New Jersey Personal Injury Blog
Category – Auto Accident
New Jersey DUI Collision Causes Injuries
A male drunk driver injured nine pedestrians leaving the new Meadowlands Stadium after he reportedly crashed his car into the group. According to a report in the New York Daily News, the 21-year-old driver from the Bronx plowed into a crowd of people leaving the Mexico-Ecuador soccer match at the stadium. One of the victims was a 20-month-old infant who sustained minor injuries. The driver was charged with assault with an automobile, driving while intoxicated, aggravated assault of a juvenile and leaving the scene of an accident. The victims were part of a larger group of pedestrians crossing the freeway while leaving the game. All other vehicles stopped for the crossing pedestrians, but the intoxicated driver did not.
Under New Jersey law, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. N.J.S.A section 39:4-50 (a) states in part: “…. 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 by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood or permits another person who is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug to operate a motor vehicle owned by him or in his custody or control, or permits another to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood” shall be illegal.
Victims of drunk driving/DUI (“driving under the influence”) auto accidents may seek compensation from the drunk driver for their physical injuries, unpaid medical expenses, disability and lost wages. In addition, those who served the intoxicated driver with alcohol may also be liable under New Jersey’s “dram shop” laws, depending upon the circumstances. Call the New Jersey auto accident lawyers at Blume Goldfaden, who will provide a no-cost consultation and comprehensive evaluation of your potential claim if you have been injured by a drunk driver. Contact us at 973-635-5400 to find out how we can help.
Two Killed in New Jersey Auto Accident
Two New Jersey men were killed when their Avis rental truck crossed a median and hit a flatbed truck. The 41-year-old passenger died at the scene of the accident and the 29-year-old driver was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. According to a news report in The Star-Ledger, the accident took place 25 miles south of Albany on the New York State Thruway. The exact cause of the accident has yet to be determined.
In any New Jersey auto accident involving a rental vehicle, it is important to investigate whether the accident was caused as a result of a mechanical malfunction. Inquiries should be made as to: whether the rental company maintained its vehicles properly; or, if the accident was caused by a vehicle defect. If an accident was caused or contributed to by poor vehicle maintenance on the part of the rental company, then they could be held liable for the accident and any resulting injuries. If the accident occurred as a result of an auto product defect, the automobile manufacturers and/or distributors can be held liable.
Victims of accidents involving rental vehicles can seek compensation for their physical injuries, unpaid medical expenses, lost wages and disability. Families of deceased victims can file wrongful death claims seeking compensation from the responsible parties. If you have been injured in a New Jersey auto accident, or, if you have lost a loved one in a car accident, contact the experienced New Jersey auto accident lawyers at Blume Goldfaden. Contact us at 973-635-5400 for a comprehensive, no-cost evaluation of your potential claim.
Posted in: Auto Accident
Tags: autos causing injury, car part flaws, fatal vehicle crash
Three Car Crash in Vineland Proves Fatal
Two people were killed, and, four others injured in a New Jersey auto accident involving three vehicles. According to a news report from www.nj.com, a 32-year-old Cape May County woman drove through a stop sign and caused the three-car collision. Sadly, the two passengers in that driver’s car, her 71 year old father and 73 year old mother, died as a result of the accident. A 13-year-old boy also in the same vehicle suffered a compound fracture in his leg after being ejected out of the back window. The victim in the second vehicle suffered leg and back injuries. The victim in the third vehicle was reportedly uninjured.
New Jersey Statutes 39:4-120.9 and 39:4-81 state that all vehicles must come to a complete stop at all stop signs.
In this case, driving through a stop sign cost the life of an elderly couple and injured two others. The failure to yield the right-of-way and rear-ending a stopped vehicle are two common occurrences at intersections in New Jersey. In such cases, wearing a seatbelt at all times when seated in your vehicle (whether stopped or driving), can help minimize personal injuries to vehicle occupants in such cases.
When such incidents occur it is also important to examine whether the accidents were caused by other dangers at the intersection. Sometimes, stop signs can be visually obscured by foliage or some other type of obstruction. Vehicle control devices (such as traffic lights and directional arrows, etc.) may be in disrepair and not functioning properly. Excessive road debris and hazards (e.g., large potholes, ice build-up, etc.) may cause or contribute to accidents. If the accident was caused by a dangerous condition on the roadway, the governmental agency or municipality responsible for maintaining the roadway, signs and traffic control devices could be held liable for the accident and the resulting injuries and damages.
If you are involved in a New Jersey auto accident, contact the New Jersey car accident lawyers of Blume Goldfaden at 973-635-5400 to schedule a no-cost consultation regarding your potential claim.
Posted in: Auto Accident
New Jersey Multi-Vehicle Crash Injures Three
Three people were injured in an auto accident in Haworth, New Jersey, after two cars and a police vehicle crashed at an intersection. According to a northjersey.com news report, the crash occurred at the intersection of Haworth Avenue and Maple Street when a car going south on Maple hit the police car traveling west on Haworth. The police cruiser then struck another vehicle that was attempting to turn left on to Maple from eastbound Haworth. The police officer was taken to a local hospital where he was treated, and, released. The drivers of the other cars were also transported to nearby hospitals.
Any time an accident takes place at an intersection, an investigation should be conducted to ascertain who was at fault. This is can be determined by establishing which driver had the right-of-way at the intersection at the time of the accident. It is also important to determine if any of the drivers violated vehicle & traffic laws (e.g. run a red light or stop sign). Those vehicle operators or drivers at fault for an accident as well as the vehicle’s owners can be held accountable for injuries and damages caused as a result of the accident. Those injured, as well as their families may be able to seek compensation to cover medical costs, loss of wages, physical harm, property loss, and, other related damages.
If you have been injured in a New Jersey auto accident, contact an experienced NJ car accident lawyer at Blume Goldfaden. We can provide a no-cost consultation, and, evaluation of your potential claim. Call us at 973-635-5400 to learn how we may be able to help. Remember that there are time limitations to file claims against governmental agencies (e.g., Municipalities, Police Departments, etc.) in New Jersey. If your potential claim involves a governmental entity, such as a police department, consult a lawyer without delay.
New Jersey Car Accident Causes Injuries
At least two people were injured in a New Jersey car accident after an out-of-control car struck a vehicle parked in a driveway. According to a news report in The Record, the driver of a car lost control going west on West Central Boulevard in Palisades Park, New Jersey. The car then drove onto a lawn, over a wall, and, eventually struck another vehicle parked in front of a home.
When such an unusual and unexpected car accident occurs, there are often many questions that need to be answered relating to how, and, why a motorist lost control of their vehicle. Could an auto product defect be the cause of this accident? In car accident cases where a vehicle defect is suspected, it would be beneficial to the victims to preserve the vehicle in its “time of the accident” condition. This means not getting any repairs done, and, not altering the vehicle. It is important for an accident reconstruction expert to carefully examine the vehicle in its “time of the accident” condition for any evidence of auto defect, or, malfunction.
If it is determined through careful investigation, and, analysis that an accident was caused by a product defect, the victim, or, victims injured in the accident may have an auto products liability claim. If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident caused by a defective auto part or vehicle malfunction, it is important that you retain the services of an experienced New Jersey auto product liability attorney, familiar with cases pertaining to car defects, who has a successful track record in litigating car accident, and, auto product liability claims. Call the attorneys at Blume Goldfaden at 973-635-5400 to schedule a no-cost, confidential consultation regarding your possible case.
Source:http://www.northjersey.com/news/transportation/020310_Two_injured_in_Palisades_Park_accident.html
New Jersey Pedestrian Accident Causes Injuries
A man recently sustained leg injuries in a New Jersey pedestrian accident, according to a report in the Ridgewood News. The accident reportedly occurred at the intersection of East Ridgewood and Maple avenues in Ridgewood. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his serious injuries. Police are still investigating the cause of the accident, and, have not cited anyone in connection with this incident.
Pedestrian accidents in New Jersey may occur due to a variety of factors, including driver error or negligence. In some cases, dangerous or defective roadways and intersections could be contributing factors; examples include visual obstructions, poorly marked or maintained crosswalks or roadways, a lack of appropriate traffic control devices, and, road debris or disrepair. Driver negligence could include a variety of factors, including impairment from to alcohol or drug consumption, driver distraction and inattention, and, speeding.
If a negligent driver causes a pedestrian accident, then he or she could be held liable for the harm caused. Similarly, if a dangerous roadway contributes to the cause of an accident, a pedestrian can file a notice of tort claim within 90 days of the date of the accident, against the appropriate governmental/municipal or other entities which are responsible for maintaining and/or designing the roadway or intersection where the injury occurred. Such a notice preserves the right of the pedestrian to file a lawsuit in the future, if warranted.
If you have been injured in a New Jersey pedestrian accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Blume Goldfaden. We have the staff and resources to handle even the most complicated pedestrian accident cases. We have a long track record of favorable verdicts and large settlements concerning pedestrian accident claims. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in New Jersey, your time to file a claim may be limited by state law. Call us at 973-635-5400 for a no-cost consultation.
Brake Problems Initiate Recall of 400,000 Honda Vehicles
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., has announced the recall of 344,000 Odyssey minivans, and, 68,000 Element small trucks in the United States for 2007-2008 model year vehicles. Consumer complaints have been issued to Honda regarding brake pedals that feel “soft,” or, that need to have enough pressure applied that the pedal is pressed almost to the floor before the vehicle is able to come to a halt.
Honda attributes its brake problems to air intrusion in affected vehicles’ modulators, and, an accumulation of air entering the system during the VSA self-check mode. The automaker said that the recall will allow them to modify the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) modulators that may potentially cause “soft brake pedal,” or, “low brake pedal” condition symptoms to develop slowly overtime.
According to a ksby.com article, a Honda spokesperson reportedly stated that if the brake issue is not fixed, a motorist may experience a loss in braking power, which could result in an auto accident taking place. However, seeing that the auto parts required to fix the braking problem are not yet available, owners of vehicles affected by the recall have been told to wait until the end of April for a notification letter from Honda.
In addition to the customer complaints received by Honda, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced receiving reports of three collisions involving recalled Honda vehicles due to the braking problem. These crashes resulted in minor injuries, and, no deaths have been reported. However, it is uncertain at this time how many other auto accidents involving affected Honda vehicles may have been caused by this brake problem.
Brakes are a vital component of any motor vehicle. Auto manufacturers are responsible for designing and manufacturing vehicles that meet safety requirements and free of manufacturing and design defects that cause harm to motorists. At Blume Goldfaden, our experienced New Jersey auto design defect attorneys have assisted those injured in accidents caused by faulty braking systems, dangerous car seats, defects in fuel tanks and fuel lines, defective seatbelts, and, vehicles that are not crashworthy. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident involving a recalled Honda vehicle, or, any other defective automobile, contact us at 973-635-5400 for a no cost assessment of your potential products liability or personal injury claim.
Source:http://www.ksby.com/news/honda-to-recall-about-400000-vehicles-over-brake-problems/;http://www.honda.com/newsandviews/article.aspx?id=5397
New Jersey Crossing-Guard Pedestrian Accidents On the Rise
A recent news article in The Record addresses the increase in the number of New Jersey pedestrian accidents involving crossing guards. According to official reports, over a span of one week in January 2010, four crossing guards were struck by vehicles in New Jersey. Nationwide, 97 crossing guards were killed between 1993 and 2006, according to the Department of Health and Senior Services. In fact, New Jersey insurance providers note that the occupation of crossing guard is one of the most dangerous jobs in municipal government.
Recently, a 73-year-old crossing guard was struck by a van as he helped a man cross a road in Little Ferry, New Jersey. The van struck the crossing guard while making a left turn. He sustained fatal injuries, including broken bones and head injuries. The van’s driver told authorities that he did not see the crossing guard at the intersection because he was blinded by the glare of the afternoon sun.
Vehicle vs. Pedestrian accidents can easily cause catastrophic injuries, or, even death. Many of these accidents occur because of the motorist’s negligence. A driver could be impaired, speeding, or, simply not paying attention to his or her surrounding environment.
If you, or, a loved one has suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact the skilled NJ pedestrian accident lawyers at Blume Goldfaden to determine whether you have a possible claim. We have been able to secure compensation for pedestrian accident victims in New Jersey for decades. Call us at 973-635-5400 to schedule your no-cost consultation.
Pedestrian Accident Death Toll Up in New Jersey
Recent data released by the New Jersey State Police indicates that New Jersey pedestrian accident fatalities in 2009 exceeded those in 2008. According to a news report, as of December 2009, 155 people died in pedestrian accidents in 2009 — up from 136 in 2008.
The State Police offer several useful safety tips for pedestrians. Pedestrians should stay off of highways where vehicle speeds are usually higher, and, where visibility is reduced for both drivers and pedestrians. If your vehicle is disabled, stay inside and call/wait for emergency assistance. Only cross roadways at legal crossings such as marked crosswalks. Never wear earphones that impede your hearing while crossing the street. Don’t walk on or near roadways while intoxicated, which could be extremely dangerous. It is important that pedestrians obey traffic signals, avoid jaywalking, and heed traffic and roadway conditions.
Often, pedestrian accidents occur because of driver error or negligence. Pedestrian accidents could occur because of driver intoxication, or, where a driver is distracted, speeding, or, is failing to obey traffics signs and signals.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey pedestrian accident, consult with an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer at Blume Goldfaden. Our attorneys have the knowledge and training to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident, and, can protect your rights by holding negligent parties accountable. We always offer a no-cost consultation regarding potential claims. Call us at 973-635-5400.
Texting Banned Nationally for Truckers and Bus Drivers
On Tuesday, January 26, 2010, the U.S. Government announced a national ban of hand-held texting for drivers of large commercial trucks and buses. The new text messaging ban takes effect immediately, and those caught violating the ban will be forced to pay a fine of up to $2,750. While several U.S. companies enforce self-imposed bans against texting for their employees while driving on-the-job, the rash of distracted driving accidents continues to spread. The National Safety Council estimates that as many as 200,000 auto accidents on United States Highways are the result of texting while driving.
According to a reuters.com article, the new U.S. texting ban is expected to help lower the danger of distracted driving. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood stated, “We want the drivers of big rigs and buses and those who share the road with them to be safe…This is an important safety step and we will be taking more to eliminate the threat of distracted driving.” Research conducted by trucking regulators has demonstrated that drivers take their eyes off the road for almost the entire time that it takes to send, and receive, a text message.
Almost two dozen U.S. states, including New Jersey, ban texting while driving any motor vehicle and the problem has become so widespread that Congress is addressing legislation to prohibit this form of negligent driving on a national scale. Handheld cell phone use is banned for all drivers in New Jersey where the distracted driving laws are all considered ‘primary enforcement’ statutes, which means that a police officer may issue a ticket to a driver for using a handheld cell phone while driving without committing any other traffic offense.
Auto accidents, especially those involving trucks, or, buses, may cause innocent passengers, and, drivers to suffer serious injury. When such incidents are brought about by distracted driving, injured individuals may be able to seek compensation for expenses associated with their injuries. For more information regarding a potential injury claim associated with a distracted driving accident, please contact the experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys at Blume Goldfaden at 973-635-5400 for a no-cost consultation.