Mount Arlington, NJ – Construction Worker Hurt in I-80 Work Zone Crash, Driver Charged With DUI
Mount Arlington, NJ (May 17, 2026) – A construction worker was injured after a New York City driver struck two SUVs and hit the worker in an Interstate 80 work zone on Saturday, May 16, in Mount Arlington. The crash happened around 12:33 a.m. on Interstate 80 West near milepost 33.
Authorities said Jose Cadafi, 31, of New York City, was driving an Acura SUV westbound when he entered a construction zone. Cadafi struck a Kia SUV and a Honda SUV before continuing west and hitting a construction worker.
Emergency crews responded after receiving reports of the collision. Paramedics evaluated those involved at the scene before transporting the construction worker to a nearby hospital.
The construction worker sustained minor injuries. No other injuries were reported.
Cadafi was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Officials closed portions of the highway while crews worked at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash.
We wish the injured worker a full and speedy recovery.
What Construction Workers Should Know After Being Hit in a Work Zone in NJ
After a work zone crash in New Jersey, an injured construction worker may have more than one path to compensation. Workers’ compensation may cover medical care and part of lost wages, while a separate claim against the at-fault driver may cover additional losses. Knowing how these claims work can help you avoid missing important options.
When you are injured while working, you should report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. New Jersey workers’ compensation can apply regardless of who caused the crash. This claim may help cover medical treatment and wage benefits during recovery.
If a driver outside your job caused the crash, you may also have a third-party injury claim. This type of claim can address losses that workers’ compensation may not fully cover, including pain and suffering. A lawyer can help explain how both claims may work together.
When a driver faces a DUI charge after a work zone crash, that detail can become important in the injury claim. The police report, arrest records, and crash evidence may help show how the driver’s conduct contributed to the collision. Keeping these records can help support your case.
Work zone safety may also need review after a construction worker is struck. Warning signs, cones, barriers, lane closures, and lighting can all affect how drivers move through the area. If safety measures were missing or unclear, other parties may need to be reviewed.
Before you agree to any offer, your injuries and losses should be clearly documented. Even injuries described as minor can lead to follow-up care, missed work, or lasting discomfort. Medical records, bills, pay records, and employer notes can help show the full impact of the crash.
A New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyer can help you understand which claims may apply after a work zone collision. An attorney can also gather evidence and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Our team at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq helps injured workers across New Jersey after serious work zone crashes. We can review your situation and explain how medical bills, insurance communication, and documentation may affect your claim.
If you were hurt in a work zone collision in Mount Arlington, you can call Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq at (800) 923-3456 to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Notes: Our accident news pieces utilize secondary sources like police and fire accident reports, news articles, and eyewitness testimonies. We have not independently verified this information at Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. If you find inaccuracies, please contact us for correction. To request post-removal, please inform us, and we will promptly comply.
Disclaimer: This content is not a business solicitation, and none of the information provided should be construed as legal or medical advice. Additionally, the featured image in this post is not from the actual accident scene.
