Driver May Be Charged in New Jersey Wreck

Charges could be pending following a two-car collision on Route 206 in Frankford on Dec. 24. New Jersey State Police said the accident occurred around 10:50 a.m. during a period of heavy rain.

According to authorities, a 45-year-old Mt. Arlington man was driving his 2014 Kia on Route 206 when he crossed the double yellow line and crashed head-on into an oncoming 2013 Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by a 32-year-old Sandyston man. Both drivers were taken to Morristown Medical Center. The Kia driver was listed in serious condition. The Ford driver was reported to be in stable condition.

Police took a toxicology sample from the Kia driver. They also found what was suspected to be cocaine in his car. Both the sample and the suspected narcotics have been sent to the lab for testing. Depending on the results, he could be charged with vehicular assault.

Toxicology reports, accident investigation results and witness statements can all be used by victims who are injured in a car accident to establish another driver’s fault in the crash. For example, if toxicology results show a driver was impaired by alcohol or drugs at the time of a wreck, he or she could be found liable in court and ordered to pay damages to parties injured in the crash. In another instance, an accident investigation could uncover that someone was texting and driving just prior to a crash, which may also make them liable for damages in court.

A lawyer could help victims properly gather such evidence and file a civil lawsuit seeking financial compensation for their losses. A successful lawsuit could lead to a financial award that pays for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, lost wages and more.

Source: The Sparta Independent , “Christmas Eve accident injures two”, December 26, 2014