Clinton, NJ (September 9, 2025) – Early this morning, a three-vehicle motor vehicle accident (MVA) with injuries was reported at the intersection of School Street and Leigh Street in Clinton.
Basic Life Support (BLS) units arrived on scene at approximately 8:25 a.m. to provide medical assistance. The severity of the injuries, as well as the number of individuals affected, remain unconfirmed thus far. Local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision.
We extend our best wishes for a rapid and full recovery to everyone involved.
Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents in New Jersey
In 2023, New Jersey saw a meaningful improvement in road safety, with fatal motor‑vehicle crashes decreasing by 9.4%, from 646 in 2022 to 585, and total traffic‑related deaths falling 10.4%, from 689 to 617. Driver fatalities dropped by 12.4%, passenger deaths by 16.5%, and pedestrian deaths by 8.4% (from 191 to 175). The declines were especially notable in 14 of 21 counties, including Burlington, Cape May, Hunterdon, Monmouth, Salem, and Sussex—each reporting reductions of 30% or more.
But this downward trend reversed sharply in 2024, with traffic fatalities rising steeply across the state. Total deaths climbed by approximately 13–14%, reaching between 687 and 691 fatalities in 654–655 crashes—close to the high levels seen in 2022.
Pedestrian deaths hit a 36-year high, with around 221 fatalities—a 29% increase over 2023. Middlesex County led the state in traffic deaths, with 58 fatalities in 52 crashes as of late 2024, followed by other high‑counties such as Atlantic, Monmouth, Essex, and Ocean.
Factors such as increased drug and alcohol involvement, along with speeding and distracted driving, have been cited as significant contributors to the rise. In response, Governor Murphy signed legislation in January 2025 establishing the “Target Zero Commission,” a panel tasked with eliminating traffic fatalities in the state by 2040.
In 2023, New Jersey saw a meaningful improvement in road safety, with fatal motor‑vehicle crashes decreasing by 9.4%, from 646 in 2022 to 585, and total traffic‑related deaths falling 10.4%, from 689 to 617. Driver fatalities dropped by 12.4%, passenger deaths by 16.5%, and pedestrian deaths by 8.4% (from 191 to 175). The declines were especially notable in 14 of 21 counties, including Burlington, Cape May, Hunterdon, Monmouth, Salem, and Sussex—each reporting reductions of 30% or more.
But this downward trend reversed sharply in 2024, with traffic fatalities rising steeply across the state. Total deaths climbed by approximately 13–14%, reaching between 687 and 691 fatalities in 654–655 crashes—close to the high levels seen in 2022.
Pedestrian deaths hit a 36-year high, with around 221 fatalities—a 29% increase over 2023. Middlesex County led the state in traffic deaths, with 58 fatalities in 52 crashes as of late 2024, followed by other high‑counties such as Atlantic, Monmouth, Essex, and Ocean.
Accidents involving multiple vehicles,
such as chain reactions or collisions at intersections, often stem from factors like:
- Distracted driving: Use of mobile phones, adjusting navigation or radios, or other distractions can lead to delayed reaction times.
- Speeding: Higher speeds reduce reaction and braking time, increasing the force of impact.
- Failure to yield: Especially at complex intersections or junctions like School and Leigh Streets.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drugs drastically elevate the risk of crashes.
- Traffic congestion: Morning or evening rush hour, particularly near schools or major thoroughfares, can cause sudden stops and chain-reaction crashes.
Traffic accidents can bring not only physical and emotional stress but also unexpected financial burdens. If you or a loved one were injured in this or any crash in Clinton, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages.
A proficient car accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights, navigate communication with the insurer, and advocate for fair compensation while you focus on healing.
At Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq, we’ve been advocating for injured car across New Jersey for years. Our team is committed to delivering compassionate support and strong legal representation, so you can focus on recovery while we fight for justice on your behalf.
Call Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq today at (800) 923-3456 for your free and confidential consultation. We’re ready to stand by your side every step of the way.
Notes: Our accident news articles rely on secondary sources such as police and fire reports, local news, and witness statements. We have not independently verified this information at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. If you notice inaccuracies, please reach out to us for corrections. To request post-removal, contact us and we will promptly comply.
Disclaimer: This post is not a business solicitation, and none of the information should be taken as medical or legal advice. The image used is not from the actual accident scene.