Dangerous Roadway Accident

Driving Safely in Highway Work Zones

By Lependorf & Silverstein on July 16, 2015

Every New Jersey driver knows that in the summer months, roadway construction sites abound.  According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), 4,400 people have died in work zone crashes nationwide in the past five years.  Eighty-five percent of those who lost their lives were driving a car or truck through the work zone when the crash occurred.  Over 200,000 people have been injured in construction zone accidents. At Lependorf & Silverstein, our experienced Princeton and Plainsboro car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping our neighbors avoid the serious harm that can result from a work zone accident. 

Here are some tips for safer driving in work zones, courtesy of the Federal Highway Administration: Read the rest »

Black Ice Wreaking Havoc on New Jersey Streets

By Lependorf & Silverstein on February 25, 2014

The morning of February 20, 2014 was treacherous for New Jersey motorists. According to a news report in the Asbury Park Press, there were 124 car accidents in New Jersey that morning in addition to 140 distress calls from motorists. Officials say that many of the accidents and distress calls were related to the icy conditions. There were accidents along the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and Interstates, 78, 80, 195, 287, and 295. None of the reported accidents resulted in serious injuries.

Officials say that black ice made highway on- and off-ramps particularly dangerous. Black ice is a layer of ice that is so thin that drivers can hardly detect it. New Jersey drivers should expect more black ice this season as the temperatures continue to warm up and then cool down causing the snow and ice to melt briefly only to refreeze. Read the rest »

New Jersey Bicycle Accidents Caused by Dangerous Roadways

By Lependorf & Silverstein on February 10, 2014

Riding your bicycle can be an exhilarating and healthy way to get around New Jersey without having to pay for gas. However, bicycle riding can be extremely dangerous. In addition to worrying about drunk, distracted, and speeding drivers, you also have to contend with dangerous roadways. Many of New Jersey’s roadways are poorly lit, have inadequate shoulders, and/or do not have bike lanes.

When riding your bicycle, remember to ride with traffic, ride to the far right of the lane whenever possible, and always obey traffic lights and signs. Try to focus on the roadway, particularly on large potholes that are just one of many hazards which can make life difficult and dangerous for cyclists. Being completely focused on the roadway can help you avoid a crash. Read the rest »

Residents Petition for Crosswalk at Dangerous Lambertville Location

By Lependorf & Silverstein on December 14, 2012

Local residents are filing an online petition asking New Jersey officials to install a marked crosswalk in Lambertville, which they say is hazardous for bicyclists and pedestrians. According to The Hunterdon Democrat, residents of Lambertville want a crosswalk where the Delaware and Raritan Canal towpath intersects Bridge Street. The petition points out that other river towns with a towpath have crosswalks and yield-to-pedestrian signs, but Lambertville does not.

Bridge Street is part of Route 179, which makes the location the state’s responsibility. This area is not under the city’s jurisdiction. In response to the request, officials will have to review the history of pedestrian and bicycle accidents at that location to determine if it is in everyone’s best interest to move forward with the request. Read the rest »