The summer is now in full swing which means more people are on the road especially near beaches and shore destinations. So it’s always important to be careful while out on the road and be mindful of the most common causes of car accidents.
- Distracted driving particularly due to cell phone use, is the leading cause of accidents in New Jersey. Recently, the New Jersey Department of Transportation reported 1,076 crashes involving handheld cell phones use, resulting in 482 injuries and 3 fatalities, and 361 crashes linked to handsfree cell phone use, with 2 fatalities. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, increasing the risk of an accident by 23 times, according to studies. Distractions also including activities like, eating talking to passenger, or adjusting in-car systems. Distracted driving accounts for nearing 25% of fatal crashes in the state.
- Speeding is a significant factor, contributing to up to 28% of accidents in New Jersey. Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions reduces reaction time and increases crash severity. Speeding is particularly noted on major roadways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.
- Drunk Driving related crashes remain a concern, with 129 fatalities in New Jersey attributed to alcohol related crashes. In 2022, 27.4% of fatally injured crash victims had consumed alcohol, and 11.7% of drivers involved in accidents were legally intoxicated.
- Failure to Yield and Reckless Driving behaviors, such as running red lights, making unsafe lane changes, or tailgating, are common causes. Rear-end collisions, often linked to tailgating or distracted driving, make up for 23% of accidents on municipal and county roads.
- Poor Road Conditions and Weather while less common than human error, poor road conditions and inclement weather contributed to accidents. In recent years 8.73% of fatal crashes occurred during raining conditions, though 84.5% of fatal crashes happened in clear weather, suggesting human error remains dominant.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using cell phones, eating or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.
- Obey Speed Limits: Drive at safe speeds, especially in adverse weather or congested areas.
- Stay Sober: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs; use a designated driver or rideshare services.
- Drive Defensively: Be aware of other drivers, yield appropriately, and maintain safe following distances.
- Maintain Vehicles: Regularly check tires, brakes, and other vehicle components to prevent mechanical failures.
Contact the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams if Injured in a Car Accident
If you have been injured in an accident, speak with our experienced New Jersey car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams. Call us today at 732-351-2800 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices conveniently located in Tinton Falls and New Brunswick, New Jersey we serve clients in Monmouth and Middlesex County and throughout the state.
