NJ College Student Charged With Vehicular Homicide in Drunk Driving Crash
All drivers know that driving while intoxicated is illegal. Many drivers still take the risk and end up in dangerous situations. They may crash and injure or kill others.
This is what happened when a New Jersey college student drove while intoxicated in August. His truck went off the road and overturned, killing his passenger.
The 21-year-old man from Alloway Township was driving a pickup truck on Whig Lane Road in Pilesgrove Township in the early morning hours of August 29. His pickup truck went off the road and hit a tree and a utility pole before overturning multiple times.
His passenger, a 20-year-old man from Mullica Hill, was ejected from the pickup truck. He died from his injuries. The driver was injured in the crash. He was interviewed by police and he admitted drinking six or seven beers shortly before the accident.
The man was charged with one count of second-degree reckless vehicular homicide. The prosecution sought to keep the man in jail pending the outcome of the case. However, a judge ordered his release with several conditions.
While the man has no prior criminal record, he does have a drunk driving charge from November 2024, showing that he poses a danger to others. After that charge, an ignition interlock device was placed in his truck. However, the man had it removed from the vehicle three months before the crash.
Dangers of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of preventable accidents in the United States. Alcohol impairs critical skills such as reaction time, judgment, coordination, and focus, which are all essential for safe driving. Even small amounts of alcohol can reduce a driver’s ability to make quick decisions, stay in the correct lane, or respond to sudden hazards.
The dangers include:
- Higher accident risk. Alcohol-related crashes are far more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Reduced reaction time. Intoxicated drivers cannot brake, swerve, or stop as quickly as sober drivers.
- Poor judgment. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making drivers more likely to speed, run red lights, or take unnecessary risks.
- Severe legal consequences. Drinking and driving is illegal. A DUI conviction can lead to license suspension, heavy fines, higher insurance rates, or even jail time.
- Emotional and financial costs. Beyond legal penalties, drunk driving can cause catastrophic injuries and even fatalities.
The impact extends beyond the impaired driver. Passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists face serious danger when someone chooses to drive drunk. If you drink, find other ways to get home. Use rideshare services or get a ride from a sober friend or family member.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Drunk driving accidents are totally preventable. When they happen, it can be a frustrating situation for the victims and their families.
A Morristown drunk driving accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you and your family through the extremely difficult times that a drunk driving accident can cause. Call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation
Source:
nj.com/salem/2025/09/device-to-prevent-drunk-driving-removed-from-nj-students-car-shortly-before-fatal-dwi-crash.html
