Rockaway Twp., NJ – 91-Year-Old Driver Dies After Four-Vehicle Crash on I-80 W

Rockaway Township, NJ (May 8, 2026) – A 91-year-old man from Boonton died after a multi-vehicle crash on the westbound I-80 near milepost 34.4 in Rockaway Township. The New Jersey State Police and emergency units responded to the accident at approximately 8:40 a.m. Thursday, May 7.

Four vehicles were involved in the crash: a Chevrolet SUV, a Hyundai SUV, a Honda, and a Kia. Investigators said the Chevrolet was reversing on the right shoulder near Exit 34B before moving into the exit lanes, where the Hyundai struck it. The force of that impact sent the Hyundai across all lanes of traffic.

The out-of-control Hyundai then hit the rear of the Honda and the driver's side of the Kia. The Hyundai driver, the 91-year-old Boonton man, suffered serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died. The Kia's driver suffered minor injuries and was also transported to a hospital for treatment.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased victim during this difficult time.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in New Jersey?

After a car accident in New Jersey, the first steps you take can have a significant impact on your health and your legal options. Move to a safe location if possible, call 911, and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor at first. Getting checked by a medical professional right away creates an important record that connects any injuries directly to the crash.

New Jersey law requires drivers to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $500 to local police or the New Jersey State Police. You are also required to exchange insurance and contact information with all other drivers involved. Failing to report a crash or leaving the scene can result in serious legal consequences.

Because New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically pays for medical expenses after a collision, regardless of who caused it. However, when injuries are serious, you may be eligible to step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault party. Documenting everything from the start helps build a stronger case if that becomes necessary.

Useful steps after any accident include taking photos of the scene, saving all medical records and bills, and avoiding recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney. A car accident lawyer can review your situation, explain how New Jersey's insurance laws apply to your case, and clarify what compensation you may be eligible to seek for medical costs, lost wages, and other losses.

If you have questions following a serious crash in New Jersey, you can speak with an attorney to discuss possible options. At MetroLaw.com, we have years of experience examining injury and fatality cases and explaining how the process works.

Call MetroLaw.com at (800) 469-6476 to talk with our team about what may be available to you. We can clarify how medical bills, insurance communication, and documentation may apply to your situation.