A vehicle accident in Toms River involving two teens resulted in the death of one and serious injuries for the other. The car accident only involved one vehicle, and it occurred in the early morning hours of Feb. 8.
According to authorities, the accident occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. when the 18-year-old driver failed to stop at stop sign and continued to drive through it. He reportedly continued driving his 2006 Honda Civic down Yellowbank Road until he reached a cul-de-sac. The Honda then reportedly ran through a wooded area before smashing into a tree. The driver suffered serious injuries from the accident while his 19-year-old male passenger was killed upon impact.
Multiple rescue agencies responded to the scene, including the Toms River Fire Company #2, East Diver Fire Department and Toms River Police EMS. The 18-year-old driver was extricated by rescue crews and was then transported to a medical facility via helicopter. He is currently listed in critical condition from the serious injuries that he sustained in the accident. An officer said an investigation is still ongoing, and no charges have yet been filed in the case. Reports also did not state if drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.
If a distracted, reckless or negligent driver is found liable for the death of another individual, the victim’s family may decide to file a wrongful death claim. Through this claim, the family may be able to be compensated for the financial damages that stemmed from the accident, including any burial or hospital expenses.
Source: Toms River Patch, “Toms River Teen Dies In Early Morning Car Accident“, Daniel Nee, February 09, 2014