Woman sues howell township over fall on ‘dangerous’ roadway condition

Howell, NJ – A South Carolina woman has filed a personal injury lawsuit against Howell Township, alleging she suffered severe and lasting injuries after tripping on what she describes as a hazardous roadway condition in a residential neighborhood.

The complaint, filed in Monmouth County Superior Court, stems from an October 8, 2024 incident on Tulip Lane. Plaintiff Catherine Tota claims she was wheeling a neighbor’s trash can when she tripped on “disrupted, defective and dangerous roadway asphalt” near a driveway apron.

According to the lawsuit, the fall resulted in multiple fractures to her left wrist and ongoing complications affecting her mobility and daily life.

Key Points

Lawsuit alleges dangerous roadway condition caused serious fall in Howell
Plaintiff claims township and contractors failed to maintain safe pavement
Injuries include wrist fractures and long-term physical and emotional impact

Claims of negligence against township and contractors

The lawsuit names Howell Township as well as unidentified paving contractors, alleging both failed to properly maintain and repair the roadway. The filing claims the township had “actual and constructive notice” of the hazardous condition but did not fix it or provide warnings.

It further alleges that asphalt work in the area was improperly performed, leaving “irregular depressions and voids” that developed into dangerous conditions.

The complaint outlines multiple alleged failures, including lack of proper inspections, inadequate maintenance, and failure to supervise contractors responsible for the roadway work.

Injuries and damages detailed

Tota alleges she suffered a comminuted, displaced fracture of the distal radius and a displaced fracture of the ulnar styloid. The lawsuit claims her injuries have led to “severe, persistent and intractable” pain, along with emotional distress and loss of normal daily function.

She is seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related costs. A jury trial has been requested.

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