What to Do if You Crash Your Vehicle While Crossing a NJ Bridge or Overpass?

Driving across a bridge or overpass in New Jersey can be stressful, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic. The confined space and potential hazards like black ice or high winds make these locations particularly dangerous for drivers. But what happens if you get into an accident while crossing a bridge? Who is responsible for your damages, and what steps should you take immediately after the crash?

We have answered all these questions in this guide. 

Common Causes of Bridge and Overpass Accidents in New Jersey

Several factors can contribute to crashes on bridges and overpasses, including:

• Driver negligence: Speeding, distracted driving, or aggressive maneuvers on narrow bridge lanes can lead to accidents. When drivers fail to adjust their speed to account for road conditions, they risk losing control of their vehicle, causing a collision.
• Poor weather conditions: Black ice, high winds, heavy rain, or fog can make bridges and overpasses slippery and difficult to navigate. Since bridges are elevated structures, they freeze faster than regular roads, increasing the likelihood of skidding.
• Defective guardrails or barriers: Weak or improperly designed bridge barriers may fail to prevent a vehicle from going over the edge. Some barriers are not built to withstand the impact of large vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, which can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
• Lack of maintenance: Bridges require regular inspections and upkeep. Issues like potholes, missing guardrails, or faulty expansion joints can increase accident risks. If local authorities fail to maintain the infrastructure, they could be held liable for resulting accidents.
• Mechanical failures: A tire blowout or brake failure at high speeds can be disastrous on a bridge. Drivers should regularly inspect their vehicles to avoid mechanical problems that could lead to a crash.
• Multi-vehicle pileups: Limited bridge space can lead to chain-reaction crashes, especially if drivers do not maintain a safe following distance. When one car suddenly stops or loses control, the vehicles behind may not have enough time to react, resulting in multiple collisions.
• Bridge collapses: While rare, structural failures have occurred in New Jersey, such as the 2004 Burlington County Route 70 bridge collapse caused by extreme flooding (source). Additionally, the I-95 bridge collapse in Philadelphia in 2023 highlighted the importance of regular infrastructure evaluations and maintenance to prevent such catastrophic events.

What Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Bridge or Overpass Crash?

If you are involved in an accident while crossing a bridge or overpass, take the following steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:

1. Check for injuries and call 911. Seek immediate medical attention for yourself and others involved. Even if your injuries seem minor, they may develop into more serious conditions over time.
2. Move to a safe location. Move your vehicle to the shoulder or off the bridge if it is drivable. Remaining in the middle of the road can increase the risk of a secondary collision.
3. Document the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and potential hazards like missing barriers or potholes. It’s important to document the scene thoroughly, as photographic evidence can be invaluable in proving liability.
4. Gather witness information. Eyewitnesses can provide valuable statements to support your case. If possible, ask for their names, contact information, and a brief account of what they saw.
5. Exchange information. Obtain names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved. If the other driver is unwilling to cooperate, wait for law enforcement to intervene.
6. Report the accident to law enforcement. A police report is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. It provides an official accident record and can be used as evidence in your case.
7. Seek medical evaluation. Even if you feel fine, injuries such as whiplash injury or internal trauma may not be immediately apparent. Getting a medical report can also support your injury claim.
8. Contact a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate New Jersey’s insurance laws and determine if you are eligible for additional compensation beyond your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.

Under N.J.S.A. 39:6A-8, New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own PIP insurance initially covers medical expenses, regardless of who caused the crash. However, in cases involving serious injuries, you may be eligible to pursue a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for additional damages (source).

Who Is Liable for an Accident on a Bridge or Overpass?

Liability in a bridge or overpass crash depends on various factors, including negligence and road conditions. Possible at-fault parties include:

• Negligent drivers: Speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, or driving under the influence may contribute to accidents.
• Truck drivers and trucking companies: Due to their size and weight limitations, large trucks are more susceptible to bridge-related crashes.
• State or local agencies: If poor maintenance, improper signage, or defective guardrails contributed to the crash, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) or other government entities may be held responsible.
• Vehicle manufacturers: Mechanical failures caused by defective brakes, tires, or steering systems may expose the vehicle manufacturer to liability.

New Jersey’s statute of limitations for car injury claims is two years from the accident date (N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2). However, claims against government entities require filing a notice of claim within 90 days under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act (N.J.S.A. 59:8-8).

How Can I Avoid Being Involved in a Crash on a New Jersey Bridge or Overpass?

While some accidents are unavoidable, taking proactive safety measures can significantly reduce your risk:

• Obey speed limits and adjust for weather conditions. Bridges freeze faster than roads, so drive cautiously in winter.
• Maintain a safe following distance. Stopping distances are shorter on bridges, so leave ample space between vehicles.
• Stay alert. Avoid distractions like texting or adjusting the radio while driving on a bridge.
• Check for bridge restrictions. Some older bridges have weight limits that large trucks must adhere to.
• Perform regular vehicle maintenance. Ensure your brakes, tires, and steering systems are in good condition to prevent mechanical failures.

Contact Rosengard Law Group for a Free Consultation

If you were injured in a bridge or overpass accident in New Jersey, you don’t have to face this alone. The legal team at Rosengard Law Group—experienced Cherry Hill auto accident attorneys—has a proven track record of successfully securing compensation for car accident victims across the state. We will fight for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you are entitled to.

Call us today at (856) 284-6446 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.