Clayton, NJ (March 3, 2026) – A 19-year-old woman lost her life in a two-car crash on Sunday, March 1, at an intersection in Gloucester County. The fatal collision happened just before 10 p.m.
Clayton Police said one vehicle traveled northbound on Fries Mill Road and attempted a left turn. The driver entered the path of a second car that was heading southbound, leading to a serious impact.
Officers responded to the intersection of East Academy Street and Fries Mill Road. When they arrived, they found an overturned vehicle with three people trapped inside. Emergency units worked to free those occupants from the wreckage.
Paramedics rushed a 19-year-old girl to a nearby hospital. Doctors later pronounced her dead from her injuries. Authorities have not released the identities of the other people involved or shared details about their conditions.
Investigators continue to review the circumstances that led to the crash.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman who lost her life.
How Long Families Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in New Jersey
In New Jersey, families have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This deadline comes from the state’s statute of limitations. If a family files after that two-year window closes, a court will likely dismiss the case.
A wrongful death claim allows certain surviving family members to seek financial recovery after losing a loved one in a fatal accident. In New Jersey, the personal representative of the estate usually files the lawsuit on behalf of eligible relatives.
Compensation may relate to funeral costs, lost income, and the loss of financial support the person would have provided.
Courts apply the two-year deadline strictly in most cases. Some limited exceptions may apply, such as situations involving minors or specific legal factors, but these are uncommon. Because of this, families often benefit from reviewing their timeline early and gathering key records, including medical reports, crash documentation, and financial information.
Wrongful death cases often require a detailed review of how the collision occurred and what losses followed. A wrongful death attorney can explain who may file the claim, what damages might apply, and how the legal process works in New Jersey. Legal guidance can also help families organize paperwork and communicate with insurance carriers during this time.
If your family has questions after a fatal car accident, we can provide clear information about possible legal options. Our team at Metro Law has experience reviewing serious crash cases and explaining how New Jersey wrongful death laws apply.
We can discuss timelines, required documentation, and what steps may be available in your situation. To learn more, contact Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to speak with our attorneys about your options.
