Man Faces Drunk Driving Charge Re New Jersey Auto Accident

A man from out of state is facing serious charges after five people were injured in a wrong-way crash on the New Jersey Turnpike, according to police. Authorities in Woolwich Township responded to the auto accident that thankfully did not claim any lives. However, the driver responsible has been charged with drunk driving.

According to the accident report, it appears the 26-year-old man was traveling southbound in the north lanes of the Turnpike when the accident occurred. It appears he struck a northbound minivan carrying a man, his wife and their three children. His vehicle then struck a concrete barrier. He, the 36-year-old mother in the passenger seat of the minivan, and an 11-year-old child were seriously injured and rushed to local hospitals.

The driver of the minivan along with two other minor children aged 6 and 8 were lucky to escape with minor injuries. The driver of the wrong-way vehicle has been charged with drunk driving. A court date will likely be established after he is released from the hospital.

Even if the man is not convicted in criminal court, New Jersey law allows the family to file personal injury lawsuits against him in civil court. These claims do not have to rely on a conviction in order for damages to be paid out to the injured parties. However, it will be necessary to present evidence of the driver’s negligence regarding the auto accident if damages are to be awarded. Police evidence of DUI can be used to support the case.