Bridgeton: Woman Arrested in Hit-And-Run DWI Crash

A woman from Bridgeton was arrested after a hit-and-run crash in the city Saturday, April 11.

According to reports from Bridgeton Police, 36 year-old Dionicia Zapoteco was arrested on charges of a DWI, resisting arrest and violating the emergency orders after she was involved in a hit-and-run crash on Bank Street last Saturday.

Police investigation discovered that Zapoteco was drunk when she struck a vehicle on Bank Street. Zapoteco then drove away from the scene.

Zapoteco sustained a minor wrist injury from the crash but she refused medical attention.

We’re glad no one was seriously hurt in this crash. We hope the driver is more responsible on the roadway next time and wish her a speedy recovery.

Vehicular Accidents

Vehicular crashes are one of the most common causes of injuries and fatalities in the state of New Jersey. In a report published by the New Jersey State Police Fatal Accidents Investigation Unit, there were 591 recorded fatal crashes that occurred in 2017, which caused 624 fatalities.

In 158 of the 591 crashes, Driving While Intoxicated (alcohol and/or drugs) was listed as the major contributing factor. There were 174 people killed as a result of these 158 crashes. Speeding was another major contributing factor to these crashes being listed as a factor in 61 of the crashes. Driving while distracted seems to be the biggest factor as it was listed as a cause for 196 crashes.

We urge drivers to observe and follow the laws while driving, and to remain focused while driving so that they can react accordingly to situations that may suddenly pop up on the roadway. Drivers should be more careful when driving while visibility is low, and they should also check their car before going on the roadway. Being more diligent and prepared can help lessen accidents on the roads of New Jersey.