Family sues trucking companies in fatal Northampton County crash that killed NJ man

The family of a New Jersey man who was killed while attempting to move his disabled vehicle from Interstate 78 has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against two trucking companies and two truck drivers, alleging negligence and reckless conduct contributed to the fatal crash. According to the complaint filed in Philadelphia County Court, Tyler Kolaja, 33, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 78 in Northampton County on June 16, 2025, when his vehicle became disabled along the shoulder of the highway. His girlfriend moved into the driver's seat while Kolaja exited the vehicle and attempted to push it to safety. The lawsuit alleges Kolaja's vehicle had its hazard lights and rear lights activated when a tractor-trailer operated by Goce Josifoski struck both Kolaja and his vehicle. The impact allegedly crushed Kolaja between his vehicle and a separate disabled tractor-trailer that was parked on the shoulder. He died from his injuries. The suit was filed by Kolaja's parents, Robert and Louise Kolaja, acting as administrators of his estate. They are seeking damages through wrongful death and survival claims against the driver, Goce Enterprises LLC, JP Express Service Inc., truck driver Lobsang Tseten and Lobsang TNY Inc. Among the most serious allegations in the complaint is the claim that Josifoski was asleep immediately before the collision. The lawsuit cites dash camera footage that allegedly shows the driver with his eyes closed for several seconds before awakening and attempting evasive maneuvers moments before impact. The complaint further alleges Josifoski was operating beyond federally permitted hours of service and continued driving despite fatigue. Plaintiffs claim he had been on the road longer than regulations allow and failed to stop despite recognizing he was physically exhausted. Court filings also allege a separate tractor-trailer parked on the shoulder should not have been disabled at that location and that its operator failed to properly inspect and maintain the vehicle before the breakdown occurred. The lawsuit accuses the trucking companies of negligent hiring, supervision and retention, alleging they failed to properly monitor drivers, enforce safety policies and ensure compliance with federal trucking regulations. According to the complaint, Josifoski was charged with one count felony homicide by vehicle; one count of misdemeanor involuntary manslaughter; two counts of misdemeanor reckless endangerment; and 17 summary traffic offenses. His attorney, Allentown-based John Waldron, told lehighvalleylive.com that an accident reconstructionist hired by the defense will testify that Josifoski’s reaction time was “above normal” and his speed was “within the speed limit.”