Rutherford, NJ – U-Turn Crash by DUI Driver on Rte 3 Hurts Three

Rutherford, NJ (September 16, 2024) – A serious accident occurred in the early hours of September 15 on Route 3 in Rutherford, leaving three individuals injured. The crash, which took place in the westbound lanes of the highway at approximately 5:12 a.m., involved a 2022 Ford Ranger and a 2018 Honda HRV. Authorities have confirmed that the driver of the Ford Ranger, identified as 40-year-old Justin R. Latorre of Newark, was intoxicated at the time of the crash and has been arrested.

According to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, Latorre was attempting to make a U-turn on the highway when his truck collided with the Honda HRV, which was carrying four occupants. Initially, it was believed that all four passengers in the Honda had been injured; however, upon further investigation, it was determined that three of them sustained varying degrees of injury and were treated by medical personnel and later transported to area hospitals.

Following the crash, Rutherford police quickly arrived at the scene, arresting Latorre on charges of driving under the influence (DUI). He was transported to Bergen County Jail, where he remains in custody pending his first appearance in Central Judicial Processing Court. In addition to the DUI charge, Latorre is facing multiple charges related to the crash, including three counts of assault by auto.

The Bergen County Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation Crime Scene Unit was called to the scene to collect evidence, and an investigation by Musella’s Fatal Accident Investigation Unit is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the full circumstances that led to the crash, though it is clear that Latorre’s attempt to make an illegal U-turn on Route 3 played a significant role in the incident.

We hope everyone harmed by this crash makes a rapid recovery.

Traffic Accidents and DUI Incidents in Rutherford

Rutherford, a suburban community in Bergen County, experiences its share of traffic incidents, particularly along Route 3, a major roadway that connects drivers to nearby cities and highways. The highway’s westbound lanes, where this crash occurred, are particularly busy during early morning hours as commuters make their way through the area. Unfortunately, incidents involving impaired drivers, such as the one reported on September 15, are a serious concern in Rutherford and throughout New Jersey.

Driving under the influence significantly increases the likelihood of accidents, often leading to devastating consequences for all involved. Accidents caused by impaired drivers, such as this one, serve as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic laws and the dangers of driving while intoxicated. Local authorities continue to urge drivers to remain vigilant on the road and to avoid risky behaviors that can lead to accidents and injuries.

For those injured in car accidents, particularly those caused by reckless or intoxicated drivers, seeking legal representation is crucial to ensuring that their rights are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve. Our personal injury attorneys at Metro Law specialize in handling all sorts of car crash cases, including those involving DUI accidents and other forms of negligence on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, our legal team is ready to provide the support you need during this challenging time.

At Metro Law, our attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash, gather evidence, and work to secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. 

If you’re unsure where to start, our reputable law firm offers free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Contact Metro Law today at 800-469-6476 to speak with one of our experienced Rutherford car accident attorneys and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve after a negligent driver has harmed you in a serious car accident.