Drunk and High Drivers Cause Numerous Crashes in New Jersey

Crashes involving drunk or high drivers are on the rise in New Jersey, and the first month of 2026 has already brought plenty of crashes involving these negligent individuals. Whether it’s caused by alcohol, marijuana, or some other substance, intoxication has no place on the road. Recent crashes show that when people fail to stay sober before driving, they can easily cause severe injuries, deaths, and significant property damage. If you are recovering from a crash caused by a drunk or high individual, you already know how destructive these circumstances can be. However, you do not have to accept these consequences without pushing back and fighting for your legal rights. Consider speaking with a New Jersey car accident lawyer to learn more about how you can fight for justice and compensation.

Drunk Driver Runs Red Light, Killing Victim

In January of 2026, Patch reported that an alleged drunk driver was facing criminal charges after a fatal crash in Toms River. Witnesses say that the driver was operating his vehicle erratically and had several close calls before the fatal crash. They also note that he disregarded several traffic signals, including a red light.

The deceased 76-year-old victim was in his Chevrolet Trax when he was T-boned by the defendant on his driver’s side. Although first responders were able to extricate the victim from his wrecked vehicle, his injuries were too severe. Paramedics did their best, but they were not able to save his life.

Police on the scene say that the defendant was speaking in an irregular fashion with constricted pupils after the crash. This individual suffered a broken femur and possible injuries, for which he was treated by hospital staff. These staff members also took a blood sample from the defendant, which could eventually help prove intoxication.

The defendant initially faced charges of reckless driving, careless driving, and running a red light. If the blood test comes back positive for intoxication, prosecutors will undoubtedly add additional charges. Officers also noted that he was driving on a suspended license at the time. Later, Yahoo reported that he faced charges of aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide.

Drunk Driver Leaves Injured Passenger and Flees Accident

Also in January, authorities in Egg Harbor reported that a drunk driver had fled the scene of his own crash, leaving his injured passenger behind in the process. The crash occurred at about 6:00 AM, causing the drunk driver to flee on foot. The heavily intoxicated individual then tried to hide in the bed of a pickup truck. Not satisfied, this person tried to steal tools from inside the pickup truck before police officers finally apprehended him.

Meanwhile, the 24-year-old’s passenger was still inside the crashed vehicle with unspecified injuries. The defendant now faces a slew of charges, including assault by auto, motor vehicle burglary, hindering, and DWI.

DWI Defendant Dodges Prison Time

In January, a woman who caused a fatal crash in Manchester Township received a favorable sentence, avoiding prison and instead receiving probation. This woman had previously been convicted of two counts of third-degree vehicular manslaughter. The crash occurred years earlier, and it involved four vehicles. This defendant lost control during a right-hand curve before slamming into a DOT truck.

This initial impact triggered two other collisions with a sedan and a coupe. One individual died and five others suffered various injuries. Although this woman escaped prison time, the family of the deceased victim still managed to sue her and recover a $1 million settlement.

New Jersey Driver Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Drunk UTV Crash

Also in January, another defendant received a much more severe sentence for a UTV crash back in 2020. This individual was sentenced to two concurrent three-year sentences for the crash, which claimed the life of a 62-year-old. Authorities determined that the defendant was drunk while operating the UTV, and he crashed the vehicle into a body of water.

Can a New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

If you’re recovering from injuries caused by a drunk or stoned driver, you have every right to fight for justice, compensation, and closure. You can do so with help from a New Jersey auto accident lawyer. These legal professionals are well aware of how destructive intoxicated drivers can be, and they can help you hold them accountable in civil court. Don’t assume that criminal charges will be enough. Only a personal injury lawsuit can help you cover your full range of damages, including medical bills and lost income. Learn more about the next legal steps by contacting Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today.