New Jersey faced a devastating year in 2024, marking the deadliest year for pedestrians in over three decades. State police reported that 221 pedestrians lost their lives in traffic collisions, a staggering 29% increase from the previous year. This number, the highest since 1988, reflects the growing dangers on New Jersey’s roads, particularly in heavily trafficked counties like Essex.
Alarming Rise in Traffic Deaths
The rise in pedestrian fatalities is part of a broader trend in traffic-related deaths across New Jersey. In 2024, at least 687 individuals died on the state’s roadways, a 13.4% jump compared to 2023. These numbers included:
- 359 drivers
- 82 passengers
- 25 cyclists
This sharp increase underscores the challenges faced by both pedestrians and drivers. The totals are just two deaths short of 2022’s record, which represented a 15-year high at the time. While 2023 saw a slight decrease, the resurgence in fatalities in 2024 highlights persistent risks, particularly with impaired driving incidents on the rise.
Factors Contributing to the Spike
Several factors contributed to the alarming increase in fatalities:
- Impaired Driving: An increase in drivers testing positive for alcohol, marijuana, or other substances was noted in 2024. Impairment remains a leading cause of preventable accidents.
- Urban Density: Counties like Essex, which see heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic, continue to account for a significant share of these tragedies.
- Road Conditions: Poor lighting, lack of pedestrian crossings, and infrastructure challenges often make navigating New Jersey’s roads hazardous for walkers and cyclists alike.
The Human Cost of Traffic Collisions
These statistics represent far more than just numbers. Each fatality is a person whose life was cut short, leaving behind grieving families and communities. Pedestrian deaths are especially devastating, often involving individuals simply walking to work, running errands, or crossing the street.
Families not only face emotional pain, but also financial burdens related to medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income. It’s important to recognize these impacts when addressing the issue of traffic safety.
How to Stay Safe on New Jersey Roads
While systemic improvements are necessary, individuals can take steps to reduce the risk of accidents:
- For Pedestrians:
- Use designated crosswalks whenever possible.
- Avoid distractions like phones or headphones when crossing streets.
- Wear reflective clothing or carry lights when walking at night.
- For Drivers:
- Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Reduce speed in residential areas and near crosswalks.
- Stay alert, especially in high-traffic zones.
Addressing the Crisis
To reduce pedestrian fatalities, New Jersey must invest in safer infrastructure. This includes better lighting, improved pedestrian crossings, and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Public awareness campaigns on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving can also help change behaviors and save lives.
The beginning of 2025 has already seen two traffic-related deaths, signaling the urgency of addressing these issues. Efforts to promote safer roads must involve collaboration between local governments, law enforcement, and communities.
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Have questions? Need answers about an injury that occurred in New Jersey as a result of someone else’s negligence? If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an accident, you should contact an attorney familiar with handling these claims. My NJ Injury Lawyer Howard P. Lesnik, Esq. offers free strategy sessions to address any issue or questions you may have about your injury, medical bills or your accident claim.
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