A midday crash on westbound NJ Route 3 in Clifton on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, shut down multiple lanes just east of Main Avenue and caused significant traffic disruptions across North Jersey. Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly before 1:00 p.m. after reports of injuries, and commuters quickly felt the ripple effects throughout Clifton, Passaic County, and surrounding highways.

If you were injured in a Route 3 accident, this guide explains what to do next, how New Jersey injury laws apply, and when it makes sense to speak with a New Jersey car accident lawyer.

According to reports on Morristown Minute, the crash occurred around 12:46 p.m. on the westbound side of NJ Route 3 near Main Avenue in Clifton, forcing the closure of two travel lanes and the right shoulder. While officials have not yet released details about the number or severity of injuries, emergency crews remained on scene as traffic backed up through key corridors.

This stretch of Route 3 is already known for congestion due to its proximity to Route 21, Route 46, and I-80—making crashes here especially dangerous.

Why NJ Route 3 Accidents Are So Serious

NJ Route 3 is one of North Jersey's most heavily traveled east-west arteries, carrying:

• Commuters heading toward Clifton, Passaic, and Secaucus

• Commercial and delivery vehicles

• Drivers merging from Route 21, Route 46, and local on-ramps

Midday crashes often involve:

• Sudden lane changes

• Speed differentials

• Rear-end collisions

• Multi-vehicle chain reactions

Even a “moderate” crash can lead to neck, back, knee, or soft-tissue injuries that worsen over time.

🚗 Common Injuries After Route 3 Car Accidents

Drivers and passengers hurt in Clifton crashes frequently report:

• Whiplash and neck injuries

• Lower-back and disc injuries

• Knee and leg trauma

• Shoulder and arm injuries

• Head injuries and concussions

Many of these injuries do not appear immediately, which is why early medical documentation matters.

🚨 What New Jersey Law Says After a Crash With Injuries

Under New Jersey's no-fault insurance system, your own auto policy (PIP) typically pays for medical treatment first—regardless of who caused the crash.

However, you may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if:

• Your injuries meet the serious-injury threshold, or

• You selected a policy allowing lawsuits for pain and suffering

ANew Jersey car accident attorneycan review your coverage, explain your rights, and handle insurer communications while you focus on recovery.

💰 Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on the circumstances, an injury claim may include compensation for:

• Medical bills and future treatment

• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Out-of-pocket expenses

• Long-term disability or impairment

Insurance companies often move quickly after Route 3 crashes—not to help, but to limit what they pay.

Steps to Take If You Were Hurt on NJ Route 3

If you were involved in this Clifton accident or another Route 3 crash:

1. Seek medical attention immediately

2. Report symptoms even if they seem minor

3. Do not give recorded statements without legal advice

4. Preserve photos, reports, and witness info

5. Speak with a personal injury lawyer familiar with Passaic County roads and courts

Early legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

Regional Traffic Conditions Made This Crash More Dangerous

This accident occurred during a period of widespread congestion across North Jersey, including:

• Delays on the US 1&9 Truck Route

• Congestion on NJ Route 21 in Clifton

• Slowdowns on Route 17 near Lodi and Rochelle Park

• Lane closures on the George Washington Bridge

• Active construction zones on I-80, Route 46, and NJ 23

Crowded roadways and construction zones increase both the likelihood and severity of crashes.

Why Choose Khorozian Law Group

Khorozian Law Group represents injured drivers throughout Clifton, Passaic County, and North Jersey, with deep experience handling:

• Car accidents on NJ Route 3, Route 21, and Route 46

• Insurance disputes and PIP issues

• Serious injury and long-term treatment cases

We understand how local roads, traffic patterns, and insurers operate—and we know how to protect our clients.

FAQs About Route 3 Accidents in Clifton

Should I talk to an insurance adjuster after a Route 3 crash?
You should be cautious. Adjusters often look for ways to reduce or deny claims. Speaking with a lawyer first helps protect your rights.

What if my pain started days after the crash?
Delayed symptoms are common. You may still have a valid injury claim if your condition is properly documented.

Do I need a car accident lawyer near me if the crash was minor?
Even “minor” crashes can lead to serious injuries. A local attorney can review your case and insurance coverage before problems arise.

📞 Talk to a Clifton Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one were injured in a NJ Route 3 accident in Clifton, don't wait to get answers.

Call (201) 944-9200 or submit our Online form to speak with Khorozian Law Group.
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