Pedestrian Killed After DUI Crash on Trenton Ave in Paterson, NJ

Paterson, NJ (September 15, 2026) – A pedestrian was killed Sunday night, September 13, after being struck by a Toyota RAV4 near the intersection of 23rd Avenue and Trenton Avenue. 

The Paterson Police said the wreck happened around 9:45 p.m. After the accident, the driver of the Toyota was charged with driving under the influence. The pedestrian was taken to St. Joseph's University Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. 

There are no additional details regarding how the accident unfolded. The circumstances remain under review. 

We extend our sincere condolences to the pedestrian's loved ones.

How Wrongful Death Claims Work in Paterson, NJ

New Jersey's Wrongful Death Act allows certain family members, typically a spouse, children, or other dependents, to pursue compensation when a loved one dies because of another person's negligent or reckless conduct. 

These claims are meant to address the financial impact of the loss, including lost income, lost services, and the value of guidance or companionship the deceased would have provided.

Unlike claims for pain and suffering, wrongful death damages in New Jersey are generally limited to these pecuniary losses.

To file a wrongful death claim, New Jersey gives family members generally two years from the date of death. These claims are separate from any criminal proceedings that may follow a DUI charge. 

A related but distinct legal tool, known as a survival action, allows the deceased's estate to pursue compensation for pain and suffering experienced between the time of injury and death. 

When a death results from a driver under the influence, New Jersey law also permits punitive damages in certain cases, which are intended to address especially reckless conduct rather than simply compensate for loss. 

Pursuing these damages typically requires clear evidence of the underlying conduct, such as blood alcohol results or toxicology reports. A wrongful death lawyer can help families understand which claims may apply and how evidence from a criminal case might support a civil wrongful death action.

If your family is dealing with the loss of a loved one after an accident, we are here to help however we can. At Metro Law, we help families understand how New Jersey's wrongful death and survival action laws may apply to their situation. 

These cases involve difficult decisions during an already hard time. You can contact Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 to discuss what steps may come next for your family.