3 Injured After Driver Loses Control in Westfield Parking Lot

The crash occurred in Lot 5 behind a Starbucks, according to police.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:51pm

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An extreme close-up of a damaged car bumper and tire, reflecting the harsh, gritty aftermath of a parking lot collision.A parking lot accident exposes the risks of sudden loss of vehicle control and the need for improved safety measures.Westfield Today

Three people were injured and taken to a hospital after a 76-year-old male driver lost control of his vehicle, jumped a curb in Westfield, New Jersey, and drove over another car in Parking Lot 5 on Friday afternoon, according to Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks of vehicle accidents in crowded parking lots, which can lead to serious injuries, property damage, and disruptions to local businesses. It also raises questions about driver safety, especially among older adults, and the need for improved parking lot design and traffic control measures.

The details

According to Battiloro, the driver apparently accelerated into and over a curb median, struck and drove over a sign standard, and then went up and over an unoccupied vehicle parked on the opposite side of the curb median.

  • The crash was reported in Parking Lot 5 on Friday at 12:22 p.m.

The players

Christopher Battiloro

The Westfield Police Chief who provided details about the incident.

76-year-old male driver

The driver who lost control of his vehicle and caused the crash in Parking Lot 5.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of safe driving practices, especially in crowded parking lots where pedestrians and other vehicles are present. It also highlights the need for improved parking lot design and traffic control measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.