Shocking Details Emerge in Fatal New Jersey Snapchat Tesla Crash

While there are many ways in which a cellphone can distract drivers in New Jersey, social media is perhaps the most worrying. Unlike simply checking a text or a GPS app, social media usually requires some form of interaction. For some apps, this might involve swiping or double-tapping. In other situations, however, drivers actively film themselves and become increasingly distracted in the process. This issue becomes even more dangerous when distracted drivers participate in dangerous trends and “stunts,” attempting to reach high speeds in a misguided attempt to “get views.” This type of situation seems to have caused a shocking, fatal crash in New Jersey involving Snapchat, a Tesla, and a deceased woman. 

New Jersey Man Admitted to Driving Drunk While Taking a Snapchat Video

On December 5, it was reported that a New Jersey man had admitted he was driving drunk when he took out his phone and recorded a Snapchat video of himself. He then reached a speed of over 155 miles per hour and rear-ended a 22-year-old college student. The young woman was killed in the collision, and her vehicle burst into flames after the impact. Although the woman was transported to a nearby hospital, she died of her wounds. 

The defendant now initially faced a slew of charges but managed to negotiate a plea deal of aggravated vehicular homicide. He subsequently pleaded guilty and now faces up to 25 years in prison – with a mandatory minimum sentence of eight years. This wasn’t the first time the defendant had faced a criminal charge for intoxication. 

The accident occurred back in 2022, and the family of the victim has been waiting for many months to see a modicum of justice. However, even the most intense criminal charges cannot bring back their 22-year-old loved one. The family announced that the woman was planning on pursuing a career in teaching, and they describe her as a “bright” individual, not just in terms of her intellect but also her personality. 

The family members believe that authorities should do more to avoid these crashes in the future. Her father states that a crash of this nature should be prosecuted as a violent crime – in the same way as an assault with a firearm, for example. It is difficult to argue with someone who has endured such great loss. At the end of the day, the father admits that the guilty verdict cannot bring back his daughter. 

Why Was This Individual on Snapchat at the Time of the Crash?

Why did this individual feel the need to film himself driving while drunk? This is a question that has widespread implications about the nature of “Gen Z” and their obsession with self-image. Was the driver trying to impress people by driving his Tesla well above the speed limit? Was it part of a viral trend in which drivers attempt to outdo each other with progressively more dangerous stunts? 

Is the problem with social media, or it is a much deeper issue with the very mindset of our younger generations? How can we encourage people to drive safely if they are laser-focused on how many views they will get for their next videos? How can we encourage a self-obsessed generation to think about other people with whom they share the road? At the end of the day, these questions often lead only to further dismay. 

One thing is clear: Distracted driving is a crime in New Jersey, and it is a clear sign of negligence. Those who have been injured by negligent, distracted drivers may hold these individuals accountable for their actions. Although criminal consequences can inspire change, personal injury lawsuits send a different message by ensuring financial consequences. To discuss potential lawsuits after a crash with a distracted driver, consider reaching out to a qualified attorney. 

Find a Qualified Car Accident Attorney in New Jersey

If you have lost a loved one and you believe that a dangerous, distracted driver was to blame, you may have the ability to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This story highlights the fact that many drivers today are more concerned with “getting views” than driving safely. Whether drivers are filing themselves, replying to text, or swiping through an Instagram feed, the risk of fatal injury is real. With help from an experienced auto accident lawyer in New Jersey, you can pursue justice on behalf of your deceased loved one. A wrongful death claim can provide you with the necessary funds to cover funeral expenses, unpaid medical costs, and any other damages you were forced to endure. Book a consultation with Lependorf & Silverstein today to get started with an action plan.