2 Killed in Wrong-Way Crash in New Jersey
Traffic laws and signs are in place for a reason. They keep traffic flowing appropriately and help avoid accidents. When drivers fail to follow these laws, such as by traveling in the wrong direction, they can cause fatal accidents that kill not only themselves but others on the road as well.
Sadly, this recently happened in New Jersey. Two people were killed in a wrong-way accident in Totowa. The fatal crash occurred in the early morning hours of January 5.
The wrong-way driver was a 30-year-old man who was a firefighter with the Newark Fire Department. He had been with the department since February 2024. He was off duty at the time of the crash.
The crash happened on I-80 when a 60-year-old woman was driving west in an SUV with her 24-year-old daughter and 2-year-old grandson. The family, all from Connecticut, was hit head-on by the off-duty firefighter, who was driving the wrong way. He was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes in a Honda sedan.
The firefighter and 24-year-old woman were killed in the crash. The other two people involved were seriously injured. They were taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The 60-year-old woman has to undergo multiple surgeries but has regained consciousness. That was when she was told the devastating news about her daughter. The woman is still recovering from her injuries. She will be forced to undergo weeks of physical therapy before she can walk again
The family is asking for prayers as they navigate the woman’s recovery and plan a funeral. The crash is still under investigation.
What Causes Wrong-Way Driving?
Wrong-way driving typically results from a combination of human error, roadway design issues, and situational factors. One of the most common causes is alcohol or drug impairment. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to experience slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and spatial disorientation, making them less able to recognize traffic signs, lane markings, or oncoming headlights.
Roadway design and visibility also play a major role. Poorly lit highways, confusing interchanges, faded pavement markings, and inadequate signage can cause drivers to mistakenly enter exit ramps or divided highways in the wrong direction. Construction zones can further complicate traffic patterns, increasing the risk of error.
Driver-related factors such as fatigue, distraction, and medical conditions contribute as well. Drowsy drivers may miss visual cues or make impulsive decisions, while distracted drivers may rely too heavily on GPS instructions without fully assessing their surroundings. Older drivers or those experiencing cognitive decline, vision impairment, or medical emergencies may misjudge traffic flow or fail to recognize they are traveling against traffic.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Wrong-way crashes should never happen. These devastating accidents cause a lot of heartache for families of the victims.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious crash, contact a Morristown car accidents attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We believe in taking every legal step necessary to protect victims’ rights and obtain compensation for injuries. Give us a call at (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
cbsnews.com/newyork/news/totowa-new-jersey-i-80-wrong-way-deadly-crash/
