Drivers in New Jersey continue to crash into various businesses, causing havoc for the general public. These incidents are known as “storefront crashes,” and although they often slip under the radar, they can lead to life-changing injuries. People inside buildings may assume that they are safe from passing vehicles, but incidents like this prove this just is not the case. Those responsible for causing storefront crashes are often intoxicated or distracted – and this problem doesn’t show any sign of slowing down. If you were injured in a New Jersey storefront crash, you might want to speak with an injury attorney.
Driver Smashes Into Popular Jersey Shore Boardwalk
Pedestrians narrowly avoided danger when a driver crashed into a Jersey Shore boardwalk in February, causing what officials describe as “heavy damage.” The incident occurred at 1:15 AM, and the area was relatively deserted at the time. The driver caused a street light and power lines to topple to the ground, posing electrocution and fire hazards in the immediate area.
Thankfully, first responders were able to address these hazards relatively quickly, and no one suffered serious injuries. That said, there is relatively little information about the crash, and it is not clear why the driver lost control in such spectacular fashion. Some believe that weather might have played a role.
Driver Mistakes Gas Pedal for Brake Before Crashing into Two Businesses
Also, in February, a driver crashed into two storefronts in Paramus. This incident occurred around midday, and police say that the woman responsible mistook her gas pedal for her brake. After slamming down on the accelerator, the woman’s SUV surged forward, crashing into two businesses: a UPS location and a gym. The manager of the UPS store was standing by the storefront window when the crash occurred, and he somehow managed to get clear before the impact.
None of his employees were hurt, either – but shards of glass reportedly fell onto them. Fortunately, there were no customers inside the gym at the time of the crash. The driver was also uninjured, although she reported feeling dazed and confused after the crash. To say that this incident could have been worse would be a serious understatement.
Semi-Truck Barrels Straight into Strip Club
Weeks earlier, a semi-truck crashed into a strip club in Pennsauken Township. The incident occurred along NJ Route 73, and police are unsure why the truck driver lost control of his vehicle. The truck seemed to impact the strip club’s entrance, causing considerable damage and leaving debris scattered around the area.
No one was injured, but if someone had been standing near the entrance, the consequences could have been fatal. Police are continuing to investigate the incident, and they are not ruling out negligence on the part of the truck driver. Truckers often lose control after struggling with fatigue, distraction, or intoxication.
Driver Crashes into Starbucks While Attempting to Park
In February of 2025, another driver failed to park safely before crashing into a Starbucks in Franklin. Once again, the driver admitted that they mistakenly stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. This caused the vehicle to surge forward, smashing straight through the storefront of the Starbucks in front of her parking spot. Once again, occupants and bystanders avoided injuries.
The Franklin Township Police Department is investigating this incident – and it is not clear whether they believe the driver’s story. She is 74 years old, and although age does not necessarily imply a lack of driving ability, many elderly individuals struggle with cognitive decline. The investigators may also be considering potential intoxication or distraction.
Can I Pursue Compensation After a Storefront Crash?
A storefront crash can lead to compensation in many situations. First, you may hold the driver responsible for their reckless behavior. You might also have an opportunity to sue the business owner, especially if they experienced storefront crashes in the past. If these incidents have occurred before, the owner may be legally responsible for installing bollards and other protective barriers.
Can a New Jersey Auto Accident Lawyer Help After a Storefront Crash?
A New Jersey auto accident lawyer may be able to help after a storefront crash. These legal professionals can assess various options for compensation, including insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits. With the right legal strategy, you can pursue compensation for medical expenses, missed earnings, emotional distress, and other damages. Learn more about your options by contacting our team of experienced injury attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein today.

The firm’s principals, Gabriel R. Lependorf and David E. Silverstein, have each been representing injured victims in the State of New Jersey for over thirty years.
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