Photo by Ruiyang Zhang on pexels.comIf you have the feeling that New Jersey roadways have gotten more dangerous in recent years, you’re certainly not wrong. New New Jersey State Police numbers analyzing traffic deaths in 2022 show that our numbers are up, with yet another rise in traffic deaths last year totaling 705–the highest number since 2007.
In this blog, I’ll tell you more about what state officials are doing to buck this troubling trend. Remember: if you are in a crash with serious injuries, recovering the compensation you need may require a Northern New Jersey car accident attorney at Buttafuoco & Associates. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with questions at 1-800-NOW-HURT.
New Jersey on Par with National Trends
2022 marks the fourth year of increasing traffic deaths in New Jersey. The numbers also reflect a national trend of growing traffic deaths across the country, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Rates have been increasing at a faster pace in New Jersey since 2019. In terms of the types of accidents, the vast majority involved occupants of vehicles, but nearly 200 were pedestrian deaths–a significant increase from 2020, but fewer than 2021–and 17 were cyclists.
So, what’s to blame for these scary statistics? Our roads have become safer, our vehicles have become safer, and safety laws have also improved. Experts are unsure of the reasons why motor vehicle crashes are increasing–though the most common causes of traffic accidents and deaths are clear.
For starters, it is crucial to drive at a safe speed, avoid reckless and aggressive driving, and ensure that you are focusing on the road and not on your phone or other passengers in your vehicle. If you do get in a major accident, working with a car accident attorney serving Northern New Jersey is key to recovering the compensation you need to recover.
State Creates New Safety Plans
A statewide safety plan for 2023 has recently been initiated through the State Division of Highway Traffic Safety. The plan involves the use of $30 million in federal funds dedicated to safety programs across the state. The program is designed to better distribute safety information, cut down on intoxicated and distracted driving, and promote safety awareness among motorcyclists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
It also continues to emphasize the importance of seat belt use. The funds will be distributed locally to counties across the state, and also to state police. Unlike past efforts, the focus is not on reactively responding to existing safety problems, but on ensuring that drivers are educated and protected on multiple levels.
There is also pending legislation focused on two bills that will create a task force to closely study which safety strategies the state should utilize to eliminate many traffic fatalities and injuries. Two bills have recently been approved, supporting the creation of the task force.
The state will also continue to implement the < a href="https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/about/safety/pdf/NJ+2020+SHSP+Final+Report+-+09-08-2020.pdf">2020 New Jersey Strategic Highway Safety Plan. This plan focuses on seven important areas including behavior of drivers, intersections, changing lanes, pedestrians and bicyclists, and other “vulnerable road users.”
Despite positive safety plans being put in place, some experts are skeptical. Many of the dangerous behaviors drivers began demonstrating during the height of COVID-19 are still continuing. Excessive speeding, driving while intoxicated, and distracted driving are all major problems. Some even believe that adding more laws and enforcement will work against the intended effect.
When to Work with a Lawyer
If you have been in a serious accident, it is often worth it to work with a car accident lawyer in Northern New Jersey. A brief, no-charge consultation with a Buttafuoco & Associates attorney can give you the peace of mind you need when considering your accident case. We can help you be better-informed about your rights and get a sense of whether or not you have a case. In the meantime, please stay safe on the roads.
If you need help after an accident, get in touch today at 1-800-NOW-HURT.
