Three in Critical Condition After Rt 22 W Crash in Union Twp, NJ 

Union Township, NJ (October 17, 2026) — Three people remain hospitalized in critical condition following a two-vehicle crash on Route 22 West in Union Township on Friday night, October 16.

A preliminary investigation found that a white 2015 Honda Accord carrying six people was exiting the Union Plaza Shopping Center when a westbound gray 2021 GMC Acadia struck its driver’s side.

Police said the Honda’s occupants included four juveniles and two 18-year-olds. Three were taken to University Hospital in Newark in critical condition, while the other three Honda occupants and the GMC driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

A 17-year-old driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, according to the Union Police Department.

The crash is still being investigated.

We wish everyone affected by this wreck strength and a smooth recovery.

What Legal Consequences Can Follow a Suspected Drunk Driving Accident in Union Township, NJ?

A suspected drunk driving accident in Union Township, NJ, may lead to criminal charges and civil liability if a driver’s impairment caused injuries. Those injured may be eligible to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other recoverable damages.

New Jersey law prohibits driving while intoxicated, and crashes involving suspected impairment and serious injuries may prompt criminal and civil investigations. Investigators may examine witness statements, physical evidence, vehicle damage, and other legally obtained evidence to determine how the crash occurred.

To pursue a civil injury claim, evidence must generally establish that another party’s conduct caused or contributed to the injuries. Crash reports, medical records, photographs, and witness accounts may help establish liability and the extent of the harm. When multiple people are injured, each person’s losses must be evaluated individually.

New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning compensation may be reduced based on an injured person’s share of fault or barred if that share exceeds the legal threshold. Serious injuries or the involvement of a minor driver may also raise additional legal considerations.

Our team at The Law Offices of Sander Budanitsky helps people injured in New Jersey car accidents navigate insurance and liability questions. We review the circumstances, explain how fault may affect a claim, and help clients understand their legal options.

If you were hurt in a vehicle crash in Union Township, you can contact our personal injury lawyers at (908) 241-3445. We can discuss your situation and explain the steps you may take next.

Note: This post has been prepared using publicly available secondary sources. The facts surrounding the incident have not been independently confirmed. If you believe any portion of this report contains inaccurate or outdated information, please contact The Law Offices of Sander Budanitsky, L.L.C. so we can promptly review and update the content to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute a request for legal representation. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical care.
Any images included in this post are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual accident scene.