Stolen Vehicles Cause Mayhem in New Jersey

Few drivers pose a greater safety risk than those who have just stolen vehicles. These criminals have virtually no regard for other people, as they are almost always more concerned with escaping from the police than limiting injuries. In addition, they may feel that they have free reign to drive in a completely reckless manner – knowing that their license plates will never link them to the crimes that they are committing. These car thieves are becoming increasingly common in New Jersey – and average people are paying the price for their negligence. 

Stolen Truck Involved in Insane 25-Vehicle Crash

On December 28, it was reported that a car thief had sparked a 25-vehicle collision in Staten Island. The criminal initially stole the truck in New Jersey before crossing state borders into New York. New Jersey police desperately tried to notify their colleagues in New York of the danger, but by then, it was too late. After a police pursuit, the stolen truck approached a populated area in Staten Island and collided with almost 30 vehicles. 

Many police officers put their lives on the line in an attempt to stop this crazed motorist, and many suffered injuries as a result. However, New York police say that only minor injuries occurred in this particular incident. Witnesses state that multiple vehicles ended up piled on top of each other after the suspect attempted to reverse out of a tight spot – striking several police cars in the process. One police car was dragged for 40 feet by the heavier truck before it came to a halt. 

According to the authorities, this individual carried out some kind of “crime spree” in New Jersey before escaping to New York. The exact details are not clear, but the defendant is now facing numerous charges – including assault, reckless endangerment, fleeing an officer, and many others. It was later revealed that this was some kind of career car thief, as he was wanted for stealing three other vehicles aside from the truck he drove during this “rampage.” In total, the chase lasted a full 40 minutes. 

New Jersey Car Thief Gets 12 Years in Prison for Causing Fatal Crash

On December 6, 2023, it was reported that a New Jersey car thief had been sentenced to 12 years in prison for his role in a fatal 2022 crash. Over one year prior to the sentencing, this individual had stolen a car before crashing and killing a motorist in Marlboro. He carried out the crime with his wife and two daughters in the vehicle, and he injured his own family in the crash. 

When local residents witnessed this individual stealing cars, they called 9-1-1. A police vehicle then appeared and sparked a pursuit, which eventually ended when the suspect ran a red light and crashed into an innocent motorist. 

Amazon Driver Has Van Stolen by Thieves in Newark

On December 4, it was reported that an Amazon driver’s SUV had been stolen in Newark. The thieves apparently “came out of nowhere” in a quiet residential area, stealing the man’s vehicle in seconds before he could do anything about it. Although the local police returned his vehicle a day later, it was heavily vandalized. The seatbelts and seats had been “slashed,” and a gang slogan had been scrawled across the interior. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured by the criminals after they drove away in the SUV. 

How Can You Pursue Compensation After a Collision With a Stolen Vehicle?

Ultimately, this is a question you will need to ask your personal injury attorney in New Jersey. However, there are several possible sources of compensation after collisions with stolen vehicles. The first is to file a claim with your own car insurance policy. Another option might be to file a claim against the local police department if they initiated an unsafe and reckless car chase while endangering the public. You might also sue the owner if they allowed the vehicle to be stolen through their own negligence. 

Find an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer in New Jersey

If you have been injured by a negligent driver in New Jersey, it might be worth booking a consultation with an experienced auto accident lawyer. Even if your accident was caused by a criminal in a stolen vehicle, it may still be possible to pursue compensation for your injuries. Each case is slightly different, and an online article cannot provide you with the personalized guidance you need to make an informed decision. Book a consultation with Lependorf & Silverstein at your earliest convenience to discuss this situation in greater depth.