Winter storms don't just slow traffic in New Jersey — they lead toserious car accidents that leave drivers injured and facing insurance pressure almost immediately. When snow and ice cover major routes like I-95, Route 4, Route 17, and the New Jersey Turnpike, even a brief lapse in judgment can cause devastating crashes.

During a recent winter storm, theNew Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) issued an Emergency Traffic Regulation Order temporarily lowering speed limits to 35 miles per hour on all Interstate and State highways, including the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and Atlantic City Expressway. The order was issued due to forecasted heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, warning that driving conditions could become dangerous statewide.

Despite these emergency measures, winter crashes still occurred — often because drivers ignored reduced speed limits or failed to adjust to hazardous road conditions. If you were injured, speaking with a New Jersey car accident lawyer can be critical to protecting your rights. Below, we explain how NJDOT's 35-mph emergency order affects fault, insurance claims, and compensation after a winter crash.

🚨 NJDOT Lowers Speed Limits Statewide During Winter Storm

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) issued an Emergency Traffic Regulation Order temporarily reducing all posted speed limits above 35 mph to 35 mph beginning at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, January 25, and remaining in effect until further notice.

The reduced speed limit applied to:

• All Interstate highways in New Jersey

• All U.S. and State highways

• The New Jersey Turnpike

• The Garden State Parkway

• The Atlantic City Expressway

The order was issued under N.J.S.A. 39:4-98.9, citing forecasted snow, ice, and high winds that could make travel treacherous statewide.

❄️ Why the 35-MPH Emergency Order Matters After a Crash

This wasn't just a recommendation—it was a legally enforceable speed limit.

When NJDOT lowers speed limits during an emergency:

• Drivers are legally required to comply

• Speeding above 35 mph may constitute negligence

• Insurance companies may use the order when assessing fault

If another driver caused a crash while exceeding the emergency speed limit, that violation can significantly strengthen an injury claim. A New Jersey car accident lawyer can use the order, crash data, and weather conditions to help establish liability.

🚛 Commercial Vehicle Restrictions Increase Liability Risk

Alongside the speed reduction, NJDOT also implemented commercial vehicle travel restrictions starting January 25.

Restricted vehicles included:

• Tractor-trailers

• Empty CDL-weighted straight trucks

• Passenger vehicles pulling trailers

• Recreational vehicles and motorcycles

The restrictions applied to major corridors such as I-76, I-78, I-80, I-195, I-280, I-287, I-295, I-676, and Route 440, while excluding the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and Atlantic City Expressway.

When large trucks or restricted vehicles ignore emergency orders, the risk ofsevere or catastrophic injuries rises sharply—issues our firm regularly addresses through Truck Accidents claims and related federal and state regulations.

⚖️ Who's Liable for a Winter Crash During Emergency Conditions?

Bad weather does not excuse unsafe driving.

Even during snowstorms, drivers must:

• Obey emergency speed limits

• Maintain safe following distances

• Adjust driving behavior to road conditions

Liability may rest with:

• A driver speeding above the 35-mph emergency limit

• A commercial operator violating travel restrictions

• A motorist who failed to slow down despite visible hazards

These factors are evaluated through the Personal Injury Claims Process, which includes reviewing crash reports, vehicle damage, weather data, and medical records.

🚑 Common Injuries From Emergency-Weather Crashes

Winter storm crashes frequently lead to injuries that worsen over time, including:

• Whiplash and neck injuries

• Back and spinal trauma

• Head injuries and concussions

• Fractures and joint damage

Prompt medical care is essential. Injury documentation also plays a key role when pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—topics we cover in Types of Personal Injury and Damages & Compensation.

📋 What to Do If You Were Injured During the 35-MPH Emergency Order

If you were involved in a crash while the emergency speed limit was in effect:

1. Seek medical treatment immediately

2. Obtain a police report noting road and weather conditions

3. Photograph vehicles, signage, and roadway conditions

4. Avoid recorded insurance statements without legal guidance

5. Speak with a New Jersey personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement

These steps can protect your claim and prevent insurers from shifting blame.

❓ FAQs — NJ Emergency Speed Limits & Injury Claims

Does speeding during the emergency order affect fault?
Yes. Violating the 35-mph limit may be strong evidence of negligence.

Can I still recover compensation if weather contributed to the crash?
Yes. Weather does not excuse unsafe or unlawful driving behavior.

Should I talk to a lawyer near me after a winter storm accident?
If you were injured, local legal guidance can help protect your rights and deal with insurance companies effectively.

📞 Why Choose Khorozian Law Group

At Khorozian Law Group, we represent injured New Jersey drivers in serious accident cases—including crashes caused by snow, ice, and emergency traffic conditions.

If you or a loved one were injured during this winter storm, call (201) 944-9200 or submit an Online form to discuss your options.
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