Gubernatorial Candidate Barbara Buono Cited After Not Wearing Seatbelt In Car Crash

FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) - Police have cited New Jersey Democratic gubernatorial candidate Barbara Buono for not buckling up following an accident in which she was injured.

The state senator suffered facial cuts in the crash in Franklin Township Monday.

"Around 8 pm last night, Senator Buono was being driven home from an event by a staff assistant. As her driver attempted to turn, he collided with an oncoming car," Buono spokesman David Turner said in a statement sent to WCBS 880.

The 59-year-old was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.

"Neither driver suffered any injuries. Senator Buono, who was riding in the back seat and wasn't wearing a seatbelt, suffered a small cut to her forehead," Turner said. "Senator Buono was taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure. There she was treated and released shortly thereafter. She is back at work this morning."

Buono was sited for not using her seatbelt and her driver was cited for careless driving.

"Senator Buono is extremely grateful that no one was seriously injured in the accident, and thanks everyone who has called, emailed, or messaged their thoughts and good wishes," Turner said.

Buono represents the 18th District in Middlesex County.

She is not facing any major challenges as she seeks the Democratic gubernatorial nomination to run against Republican Gov. Chris Christie in November.

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