'Distracted' Driver Crashes Tesla On Rt 1: South Brunswick PD

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — A "distracted" driver crashed his Tesla into a broken down tractor trailer on Route 1 Monday morning, police said.

The driver from Baltimore suffered minor injuries, but refused medical treatment, said the police. The impact was so severe it sheared the roof off the passenger’s side, destroying the car, police said.

The crash was reported at 8:21 a.m. on Route 1 and Executive Drive.

According to the police, The 2020 Tesla was headed northbound on Route 1 in the right lane. The driver had cruise control on when he momentarily lost focus on the road, said the media release.

The Tesla drifted onto the shoulder of the road where it struck a broken down 2005 Freightliner tractor trailer, police said.

Police said the 44-year-old driver was "distracted" at the time of the crash.

“This crash could easily have been fatal, and easily have been prevented if the driver was paying attention,” said Chief Raymond Hayducka.

Beginning April 1 and running through the end of the month, police will be conducting an enforcement initiative targeted at motorists who engage in dangerous distracted driving.

“Today we were lucky we didn’t have a fatal crash, but starting April 1, a new crackdown will focus on this danger,” said Hayducka.

“Drivers have a responsibility to pay attention as they drive. Last year five motorists lost their lives on roadways in the Township. This crackdown hopes to raise awareness of the danger of distracted driving.”

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