Union Township, NJ (November 6, 2025) – Two men were seriously hurt on Wednesday, November 5, following a collision involving a pickup truck, trailer, and van on Interstate 78 eastbound in Union County.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the crash occurred around 12:31 p.m. near milepost 51.1. A Ram pickup truck with an attached trailer had partially stopped on the left shoulder and in the left lane of the highway when the incident unfolded.
Investigators said 40-year-old Gene T. Lombardi III of Sewell and 55-year-old Stephen Kunst of Mantua were standing outside the truck when a Chevrolet Express van, driven by 37-year-old Jonathan Gouveia Lopez of Morris Plains, struck the trailer. The collision caused the van to continue forward, hitting Lombardi before overturning. The trailer was then pushed ahead, striking Kunst.
Emergency responders quickly arrived and provided medical aid to all three men. Lombardi suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for urgent care. Kunst sustained moderate injuries and was also hospitalized. Lopez, the driver of the van, was treated for minor injuries at the scene.
Authorities remained at the site for several hours while investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this accident, and we wish them a full and swift recovery.
Truck Accidents in New Jersey
Truck accidents on New Jersey highways can cause devastating injuries and life-altering consequences. Because of their weight and size, large commercial vehicles and pickup trucks with trailers can create severe impacts even at moderate speeds.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), thousands of people are injured in truck-related crashes every year across the country. Many of these incidents occur on busy interstates where traffic congestion and high speeds make sudden stops dangerous.
Victims of truck accidents often suffer extensive injuries that require long-term medical care and rehabilitation. Some of the most common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage.
When these crashes result from negligence—such as distracted driving, fatigue, or poor vehicle maintenance—injured victims have the right to pursue financial compensation. Compensation for truck accident victims may include:
- Medical expenses: Coverage for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation services.
- Lost wages: Reimbursement for missed work and reduced future earning potential caused by long recovery periods.
- Pain and suffering: Financial acknowledgment for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage: Payment for vehicle repairs or replacement when damaged in the crash.
Handling a truck accident claim can be complex, as multiple parties may be responsible, including the driver, trucking company, or even the trailer manufacturer. That’s why working with an experienced truck accident lawyer is crucial to protect your rights and ensure full compensation.
At Metro Law, we know how devastating these collisions can be for victims and their families. Our legal team has extensive experience representing clients injured in truck accidents throughout New Jersey. We fight tirelessly to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck crash, do not wait to seek legal help. At Metro Law, we are here to guide you through every step of the process and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (800) 469-6476 for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you rebuild your life after a serious crash.
