Zara Zaman killed in two-vehicle crash on Fries Mill Road

Northbound vehicle turning left struck southbound car at East Academy Street

March 01, 2026 | Clayton, NJ

A tragic two-vehicle accident in Clayton claimed the life of 19-year-old Zara Zaman, a recent Clayton High School graduate. 

The incident occurred when a northbound vehicle attempted a left turn at the intersection of Fries Mill Road and East Academy Street, colliding with a southbound vehicle around 9:50 p.m. on a Sunday.

Zara Zaman, 19, died after a two-vehicle crash involving a turning vehicle at Fries Mill Road and East Academy Street in Clayton.

What Happened in the Crash?

The Clayton Police Department reported that one of the vehicles was overturned during the collision. Zara Zaman, a passenger in one of the vehicles, was transported to a nearby hospital but sadly passed away from her injuries.

Key details of the incident include:

• Location: Intersection of Fries Mill Road and East Academy Street, Clayton, New Jersey
• Date and Time: Sunday evening, March 1, approximately 9:50 p.m.
• Vehicles Involved: Two vehicles, one northbound attempting a left turn, one southbound
• Outcome: One vehicle overturned, Zara Zaman, 19, fatally injured
• Other Injuries: Conditions of remaining individuals not immediately available
• Investigation: Ongoing by Clayton Police Department

Why Do Intersection Crashes Like This Occur?

Intersections are high-risk areas for motor vehicle accidents. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), 40 percent of all crashes happen at intersections, with 20 percent of fatal accidents occurring there.

In New Jersey, traffic fatalities have seen a notable rise. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates 695 lives lost in traffic accidents in 2024, marking a 14.7 percent increase from the prior year.

These figures underscore the dangers of intersection maneuvers, such as left turns, which can lead to severe outcomes if drivers fail to yield or misjudge speeds.

Legal Insights on Motor Vehicle Crashes

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle accidents, a thorough investigation is crucial to establish liability and protect involved parties. Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, emphasizes the role of competent legal representation.

"It is essential to reconstruct the accident to identify all the vehicles involved and determine the circumstances that led to the accident or the driver at fault."

"Insurance companies are never on the side of a victim injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident. According to the Insurance Research Institute, on average, an injured person who receives help from a lawyer ends up receiving three and a half times more money than those who do not."

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on such incidents:

• Reconstruct the scene to pinpoint the fault and contributing factors
• Avoid immediate statements to insurance companies, as shock may impair judgment
• Engage experienced counsel to navigate claims and maximize compensation
• Families may pursue damages for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress in wrongful death scenarios

Pending the ongoing investigation, the family of Zara Zaman may be eligible for a wrongful death claim. Such claims allow recovery for the profound impacts of catastrophic accidents, including mental and physical anguish for survivors.

"People who get into an auto accident suffer unimaginable consequences in the form of mental and physical pain, and, in cases of fatalities, the victim's family and loved ones are left devastated," noted Finkelstein.

"It is always recommended that, as a victim, you don't give statements right away after the crash to an insurance company. Hiring an attorney will be the best route to protect your rights."

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