>Date Published: 2020/04/17
A driver from New Milford was killed after a commuter train struck his SUV near the Hackensack border Tuesday afternoon, April 14.
53 year-old Sheng Chen was inside a Toyota Sequoia that was struck by a Pascack Valley Line train on Main Street just east of New Bridge Landing at around 4:40 p.m.
Emergency responders found Chen unresponsive, with a weak pulse. Emergency responders proceeded to do life-saving techniques on Chen, but Chen was pronounced dead less than 20 minutes later.
No injuries were reported to the 10 people and crew inside the train.
Police are still investigating the cause of the incident.
We would like to send our condolence to the family of the deceased. May they 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.
Written by: Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers