Clifton – Man Dies in Route 3 Crash

A 44 year-old man from Clifton was killed Monday morning, April 20, after a crash on Route 3 that was caused by a medical episode.

According to reports from emergency responders who were at the scene, 44 year-old Anton Dittrich from Clifton was traveling on the westbound lanes of Route 3 at around 10:30 a.m. when his 2012 Hyundai Elantra veered off towards the westbound shoulder and struck the divider, before coming to stop near the Bloomfield Avenue exit.

Emergency responders found Dittrich inside the vehicle, completely unresponsive. CPR was administered, but to no avail.

Dittrich was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital where he was pronounced dead 15 minutes later.

No other vehicles were involved in the crash.

We would like to send our sympathies to the bereaved family. We hope they are able to find the strength and courage to move forward from this tragic accident.

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.