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Toms River – DWI Driver Topples Two Traffic Lights on Route 37

Toms River – DWI Driver Topples Two Traffic Lights on Route 37 >

Date Published: 2020/04/15

A DWI driver from Jersey Shore took down two traffic lights on Route 37 before his vehicle caught fire early Monday morning, April 13.

According to reports from Toms River police, 43 year-old Kristofer I. Coltenback from Manchester was found standing outside his Ford Explorer that was ablaze at approximately 3 a.m.

Coltenback was driving westbound on Route 37 when he swerved to the left, colliding into a highway divider and then colliding into the first traffic light. The vehicle then kept going, hitting a median and crashing into the second traffic light. The Ford Explorer then continued across the eastbound lanes, stopping on the Batchelor Avenue exit ramp and catching fire.

Coltenback, who had a previous criminal record, was charged with DWI, driving with a revoked license, reckless driving, failure to maintain a lane and violating Gov. Phil Murphy’s executive order banning non-essential travel. He was released to a responsible adult.

Police are still investigating the crash.

We are glad no one was severely hurt in this accident. We hope the driver is more responsible next time.

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
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