A fatal pedestrian crash involving a New Jersey Transit bus has once again raised serious concerns about roadway safety across Essex County.

According to Patch and RLS Media, a Newark woman was struck and killed by a bus in East Orange during the early morning hours of March 16, 2026.

Authorities say the bus was making a right turn onto Freeway Drive East when it struck the victim, who became trapped underneath the vehicle.

This type of incident highlights how quickly routine commutes can turn into life-altering tragedies — and how complex these cases can become under New Jersey law.

For families dealing with the aftermath of a fatal crash, understanding your rights under New Jersey law is critical. These cases often require the guidance of an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyerNew Jersey car accident lawyer or personal injury attorney familiar with complex claims involving public entities.

If you are navigating a situation like this, our team at Khorozian Law Group can help you understand your options and next steps after a serious or fatal accident.

📞 Call (201) 944-9200 or use our Online form for a free consultation.

What We Know About the Crash

• Crash occurred around early morning hours in East Orange

• NJ Transit bus was turning when impact occurred

• Victim, a Newark resident, was trapped under the bus

• Transported to hospital where she was pronounced deceased

• Investigation remains ongoing

Authorities confirmed the driver remained at the scene, and no charges have been announced at this time.

Why Bus Accidents in NJ Are Legally Different 🚨

Unlike a typical crash handled by a car accident attorney, cases involving NJ Transit fall under additional legal rules.

They may involve:

• Government entities (NJ Transit)

• Public transportation liability

• Special procedural rules

⚠️ Most important:
Under the New Jersey Tort Claims Act, victims or families may have as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim.

Who May Be Liable in a Bus Accident?

Determining fault is one of the most important parts of any personal injury case.

Responsible parties may include:

• The bus driver

• NJ Transit

• Third-party drivers

• Municipal entities (road design, signals, visibility issues)

In dense areas like Newark and East Orange, factors like pedestrian traffic and tight intersections increase risk significantly. An experienced personal injury lawyer will evaluate all contributing factors, including traffic patterns, visibility, and pedestrian right-of-way laws.

Compensation in Fatal Accident Cases 💰

When a fatality occurs, surviving family members may pursue:

• Wrongful death damages

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of financial support

• Loss of companionship

Understanding the full scope of recoverable damages is key, which is why reviewing Types of Compensation and Damages in personal injury cases is an important step early in the process.

Local Risk Context 

This crash reflects a broader pattern across Essex County:

• Heavy NJ Transit bus traffic

• High pedestrian density

• Early morning commuter activity

• Busy corridors connecting Newark, East Orange, and surrounding areas

These conditions increase the likelihood of turning collisions, which are among the most dangerous for pedestrians.

What Families Should Do After a Fatal Accident

If your family is affected:

1. Request the official police and accident reports

2. Preserve any available evidence (videos, witnesses)

3. Avoid speaking with insurance representatives alone

4. Act quickly due to strict legal deadlines

• Personal Injury Claims Process

FAQs

Can I file a claim against NJ Transit after a fatal accident?
Yes, but strict deadlines apply. You must act quickly to preserve your rights.

Should I contact a lawyer near me after a bus accident?
Absolutely. Cases involving public transportation require immediate legal action and detailed knowledge of New Jersey law.

Why Choose Khorozian Law Group

• Experienced in complex New Jersey injury cases

• Familiar with Essex County courts and procedures

• Strong client advocacy during difficult circumstances

If you or your family were affected by a serious accident in Newark or Essex County, call (201) 944-9200 or use our Online form for a free consultation.