NJ judge: Texter not liable for driver’s crash


May 25, 2012 at 2:06p.m.

NJ judge: Texter not liable for driver’s crash

MORRISTOWN, N.J. (AP) — A judge in New Jersey says a woman who texted her boyfriend while he was driving can’t held liable for a car crash he caused while responding to her, seriously injuring a couple on a motorcycle.

The judge today dismissed claims against Shannon Colonna in lawsuit filed by the injured couple, David and Linda Kubert.

The Kuberts’ lawyer says Colonna’s text messages to Kyle Best played a role in the September 2009 wreck in Mine Hill. But Colonna’s lawyer says she had no control over when Best would read and respond to the message.

David Kubert had his left leg torn off above the knee, while Linda Kubert eventually had her left leg amputated.

The case is believed to be the first of its kind in the country.