Fence Struck Again in Gloucester County: Homeowners Frustrated
Vehicles are supposed to stay on roads, but sometimes they go off the road for various reasons. Sometimes drivers fall asleep while behind the wheel. In some cases, drivers are distracted. Or they may veer off the road to avoid road hazards, such as deer and other wildlife. Sometimes this causes property damage and irate property owners.
In Washington Township, Gloucester County, New Jersey, homeowners along a residential street are becoming increasingly frustrated after a stretch of shared backyard fencing has been struck by vehicles multiple times over the past several years. The most recent crash happened in the early morning hours of New Year’s Eve, when police responded to reports of a collision on Egg Harbor Road near Dorado Avenue. Officers arriving at the scene found that a driver had left the roadway, driven through the backyard fence that runs behind several properties, and then fled the scene.
The fence, which is continuous along the backs of more than a dozen homes, was visibly damaged by the impact, forcing at least three homeowners to face repair costs despite not being at fault. The hit and run driver turned himself in that afternoon, explaining to police that he veered off the road to avoid hitting a deer just before the crash. The investigation remains active as authorities continue gathering details.
Local homeowners voiced mounting frustration, with one man saying the repeated damage has become a serious nuisance and a financial burden. He has concerns about how to handle repairs and insurance claims after yet another collision.
The New Year’s Eve incident is not isolated. Records show that the same fence has been hit at least four times over the last six years. In 2019, another driver allegedly collided with the same section of fence in a separate hit and run that police later determined may have involved driver distraction. Additional crashes occurred in July and August 2025. In one of the 2025 incidents, law enforcement said the motorist may have fallen asleep at the wheel. In another, a drunk driver was identified as the cause.
Residents are also worried about safety. Many homes along this corridor have backyards frequently used by families, including children and pets, and there is concern that an out-of-control vehicle could seriously injure someone if similar incidents continue. Some neighbors are concerned about their children and grandchildren being out in the yard when a vehicle comes through the fence.
In response, the Washington Township Police Department has been in discussions with the Gloucester County Highway Division about potentially installing guardrails along this section of Egg Harbor Road. The goal is to prevent future collisions and protect both motorists and nearby residents.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
It can be frustrating for property owners to have to deal with damage caused by reckless drivers.
A Morristown car accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you obtain financial compensation for damages caused by another driver’s negligence. Schedule a consultation by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.
Source:
cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/washington-township-fence-knocked-down-new-jersey/
