Labor Day Weekend Driving Safety Tips for New Jersey Drivers

By Law Offices of Michael S. Williams – Personal Injury Attorney

Labor Day weekend is one of the last big travel weekends of the summer. In New Jersey, that usually means heavier traffic, especially on roads leading to and from the Shore.

Whether you are heading out for the day, visiting family, or driving home after a long weekend, it is worth taking a few extra precautions.

Do Not Drink and Drive

This is the most important one.

If you plan to drink, arrange a ride before you go. Use a designated driver, rideshare service, taxi, or stay overnight if necessary.

Even a small amount of alcohol can affect judgment and reaction time. The risk is not limited to the person who has been drinking. Passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and other drivers are put at risk too.

Expect More Traffic Than Usual

Labor Day weekend traffic can be unpredictable.

Roads that usually move well can back up quickly, especially near Shore communities, bridges, major highways and local routes leading to beaches and boardwalk areas.

Give yourself extra time and do not try to make up for delays by speeding or weaving through traffic.

Put the Phone Away

A text, email or notification can wait.

Set your GPS before you start driving and keep your phone out of your hands while the vehicle is moving. If you need to make a call, respond to a message or change directions, pull over somewhere safe.

A few seconds of distraction can be enough to cause a serious accident.

Slow Down and Leave More Space

Heavy traffic often means sudden stops.

Leave enough distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you so you have time to react. Speeding and following too closely are especially dangerous when traffic conditions change quickly.

Make Sure Everyone Is Buckled Up

Before you start driving, make sure every passenger is properly restrained.

Children should be in the proper car seat or booster seat based on their age and size. Do not start the trip until everyone is buckled.

Watch for Motorcycles

Labor Day weekend is also a popular time for motorcycle riding.

Check mirrors and blind spots carefully before changing lanes or turning. Motorcycles can be harder to see, especially in heavy traffic.

Give riders plenty of room.

Do Not Drive Tired

Long days at the beach, late nights and extended travel can leave drivers exhausted.

If you are having trouble staying alert, do not keep driving just to get home faster. Switch drivers or stop somewhere safe and rest.

Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as other forms of impaired driving.

Check Your Vehicle Before a Long Trip

A few basic checks can prevent problems on the road.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated, your lights are working and you have enough fuel or battery charge for the trip.

If your car has been showing a warning light or having a mechanical problem, take care of it before heading out.

Move Over for Emergency and Disabled Vehicles

If you see police, fire, EMS, tow truck operators or a disabled vehicle on the shoulder, slow down and give them room.

People standing on the side of a highway are extremely vulnerable to passing traffic.

Local Labor Day Driving Risks: Monmouth, Middlesex & Ocean Counties

Labor Day weekend brings increased traffic throughout New Jersey, but drivers in Monmouth, Middlesex and Ocean Counties should be particularly careful as holiday travelers, Shore traffic and local motorists share already-busy roads.

Monmouth County

Drivers traveling through Monmouth County can expect heavier traffic as residents and visitors head to and from the Jersey Shore. Major highways and local roads around Red Bank, Freehold and Tinton Falls can become particularly congested during the holiday weekend.

Middlesex County

Middlesex County combines heavy commuter traffic with motorists traveling throughout the state for Labor day weekend. Drivers should use extra caution in and around Edison, Old Bridge and New Brunswick, particularly when traffic volume increases on major highways and connecting roads.

Ocean County

Labor Day weekend is one of the final major Shore weekends of the summer, bringing additional motorists into Ocean County. Drivers traveling through Brick, Toms River and surrounding Shore communities should anticipate congestion, sudden slowdowns and increased traffic throughout the weekend.

What to Do After a Car Accident

Even careful drivers can be injured because of someone else’s mistake.

If you are involved in an accident, call 911 when appropriate and get medical attention if you are hurt.

If it is safe to do so, take photos of the vehicles, the roadway, traffic signs, damage and any visible injuries. Get the other driver’s insurance information and the names and contact information of any witnesses.

Avoid arguing about fault at the scene.

You should also be careful about giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company before you understand your rights.

Have a Safe Labor Day Weekend

A little extra patience can go a long way during a busy holiday weekend.

Slow down, stay off your phone, do not drive impaired and give yourself enough time to get where you are going safely.

Injured in a New Jersey Car Accident?

If you or a family member is injured in a motor vehicle accident, the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams, LLC is available to discuss your rights and the next steps following an accident.

Call 732-351-2800 for a free consultation.

We represent individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents and other personal injury matters throughout New Jersey.

Legal Disclaimer

This blog is provided by the Law Offices of Michael S. Williams for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every personal injury case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts and applicable law. You should not act or refrain from acting based on the information contained in this blog without first consulting a qualified attorney licensed in New Jersey