At any time of day or night, there is potential danger on New Jersey roads. Some of the main thoroughfares approaching bridges and tunnels can be particularly hazardous. Tonnelle Avenue, which runs through several towns near the Lincoln Tunnel, is one example of a road that might have heavy traffic regardless of the hour.
Shortly before midnight on September 28, a North Bergen police officer identified a potential traffic violation committed by the driver of a Honda on Tonnelle Avenue and 70th Street. The officer began to give chase and the Honda sped off. Approximately one mile down the street, the Honda, driven by Joseph Aziz, hit Brian Rivera’s Toyota. Both Aziz and Rivera died, and at least three other individuals were injured.
When an auto accident occurs in the context of a police follow or pursuit, multiple legal questions arise, including potential liability for negligent driving, the role of pursuit policies and the responsibilities of public entities. Officers and municipalities can be held liable for injuries to third parties that occur as a result of negligence in the pursuit of a suspect. However, claims against public entities are subject to the New Jersey Tort Claims Act, which imposes strict notice and procedural requirements.
Footage from the police car’s dashcam, as well as other surveillance video, might offer insight as to whether the officer acted reasonably under the circumstances. Identifying eyewitnesses is critical as well given that both Aziz and Rivera died in the crash.
When you’ve lost a loved one in a vehicle collision, reaching out to an experienced wrongful death and serious injury attorney is the best way to coordinate an independent investigation and meet critical deadlines. You can seek damages from multiple defendants if the negligence of more than one party contributed to the crash.
Seigel Law in Ridgewood represents New Jersey clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases, including complex matters potentially involving more than one defendant. Our firm has collected more than $500 million for victims and their loved ones. For a free consultation with a determined vehicle collision attorney, please call 201-444-4000or contact us online.