In certain sections of New Jersey roads, left-hand turns are navigated from right-hand lanes. This type of road design is commonly called a jug handle. A recent tragedy occurred when a couple traveling together in a minivan was awaiting their turn to merge. Collisions at intersections and merge lanes often result in severe personal injury to those involved. In this case, the outcome was the worst possible.

The 52-year-old man and his 50-year-old wife were preparing to cross over the road when another vehicle reportedly came barreling up at a high rate of speed and smashed into their vehicle. The impact of the collision was so strong it sent the minivan careening over a nearby guardrail. The vehicle plummeted down an embankment and into a body of water.

Various rescue squads and fire departments were immediately dispatched to the scene. Responders successfully pulled both the man and his wife from the water. They were rushed to an area hospital, but sadly, both were later pronounced dead.

A 29-year-old motorist is believed to have been responsible for the collision although no charges have yet been filed. Preliminary investigation shows excessive speed was likely a causal factor in the fatal accident. Cases like this often lead to civil litigation when immediate family members of deceased accident victims seek restitution for their losses by filing wrongful death claims against those deemed liable for their loved ones' deaths. The burden of proof lies with the plaintiff in such claims; therefore, anyone n New Jersey considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit may wish to first consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Source: 6abc.com, “Car plunges into water following crash in Burlington County, two people dead“, Jan. 15, 2018