New Jersey Sees String of Intentional Car Crashes

Most car accidents in New Jersey are genuinely accidental. However, this is not always the case, and recent incidents have shown that some reckless drivers intentionally cause collisions. These incidents are often the result of serious road rage, and they put everyone on the road in danger. For years, the authorities have been warning about an uptick in intentional ramming attacks, assaults, and even shootings on New Jersey roads. What can you do after an incident like this? Could a New Jersey auto accident lawyer help you pursue justice and accountability?

Argument Leads to Fatal Pedestrian Collision in Trenton

In April of 2025, ultiple sources reported that a woman had lost her life after being run over by a motorist in Trenton. Authorities say that the accident occurred shortly after a verbal altercation and that the motorist intentionally drove her Lexus onto the sidewalk before striking the 67-year-old victim.

Community members describe this victim as “loud but lovable,” and she was reportedly an appreciated figure in the local neighborhood. The verbal exchange occurred near the victim’s home, although it is not clear what the two women were arguing about. Witnesses report seeing the victim fall underneath the vehicle, which then continued and struck a nearby home. The collision left a considerable hole in the side of the residence, adding to the dismay of the local residents.

After crashing into the house, the defendant tried to flee the scene, driving through a construction zone with a missing bumper and a flat tire. Eventually, she was apprehended by local police and charged with numerous offenses. These charges include first-degree murder and leaving the scene of an accident.

Verbal Dispute Leads to Hit-and-Run in Jersey City

A similar incident occurred just days later in Jersey City. ABC News reports that two men verbally argued at about 1:30 AM near a crowded plaza before the defendant struck the victim with his vehicle. The defendant then fled the scene, leaving the victim with severe injuries. These injuries include brain trauma, collapsed lung, and internal stomach injuries. Although he survived, this individual was transported to a nearby hospital in “critical condition.” Eventually, his condition stabilized.

As of this writing, police are still searching for the person responsible for this seemingly intentional hit-and-run. Although police are not 100% sure whether the defendant planned to ram the victim, they certainly aren’t ruling out the possibility. Anyone with information about the crash should notify the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor, as police have no idea what type of vehicle the defendant was driving.

Teenager Accused of Intentionally Ramming Police Car

At around the same time, a teenager in Florence allegedly rammed a police vehicle, striking it repeatedly before exiting his car and charging a group of officers with a knife. This occurred around 4:30 PM when the officers were already responding to an overturned vehicle. The teenager hit one of the officers in the face, causing injuries, before he was disarmed.

There was no word on why the teen had decided to carry out this random stabbing attack. These attacks may be caused by drug intoxication, mental illness, or even racial ideologies. Whatever the case may be, it is yet another example of an intentional car crash within just a few days in New Jersey.

Can I Pursue Compensation After an Intentional Ramming Attack in New Jersey?

If you were intentionally struck by another vehicle and you suffered injuries, the obvious step is to file a claim. However, most auto insurance policies specifically exclude intentional acts – including various road rage crashes. As a result, it may be challenging to file a claim under these circumstances – highlighting the need for effective legal representation. Remember, you can always file a no-fault claim with your own insurance provider, regardless of fault.

Can a New Jersey Accident Attorney Help After an Intentional Car Crash?

A New Jersey accident attorney may be able to help after an intentional car crash. While there may be some legal issues related to insurance and injury claims after intentional claims, you shouldn’t give up hope until you have discussed your situation with a legal professional. With help from an experienced attorney, you may be able to pursue compensation from alternative sources or establish that the accident was not as intentional as it seems. To learn more, contact Lependorf & Silverstein today.