The New Jersey Turnpike isn’t just a long stretch of road—it’s one of the most heavily traveled highways in the nation. This toll road sees a constant flow of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks, all moving at high speeds through interchanges and congested areas. With frequent lane changes, aggressive driving behaviors, unpredictable weather, and ongoing construction, the Turnpike can be a dangerous place for any motorist.
How Often Do Accidents Happen on the Turnpike?
Accidents on the New Jersey Turnpike occur more frequently than many drivers realize. In 2022, over 6,500 crasheswere reported on the Turnpike, according to the New Jersey State Police. Certain stretches—especially those near major cities like Newark, New Brunswick, and Secaucus—are more crash-prone due to high traffic volume, complex interchanges, and a heavy mix of cars and large commercial vehicles. These conditions increase both the likelihood and severity of collisions.
What Usually Causes Accidents Here?
Several factors contribute to the high accident rate on the Turnpike:
Distracted driving, such as texting, using GPS, or talking on the phone, remains one of the leading causes of crashes.
Speeding and aggressive lane changes, particularly when drivers cross multiple lanes to make an exit, create dangerous situations.
Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, also accounts for a significant number of collisions, despite strict enforcement of DUI laws in New Jersey.
The combination of high speeds, driver error, and close proximity to large trucks makes this roadway particularly hazardous.
Which Parts of the Turnpike Are Most Dangerous?
Some areas of the Turnpike see more crashes than others:
Newark (Exits 13–15)
Secaucus and the Meadowlands
New Brunswick (Exits 9–10)
Cranbury (Exit 8A)
Cherry Hill (southern Turnpike interchanges)
What Kind of Injuries Do Turnpike Accidents Cause?
Because of the highway’s speed limits and the frequent presence of tractor-trailers, accidents often result in severe or catastrophic injuries, including:
Head and traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones
Internal bleeding or organ damage
Even seemingly minor collisions at high speed can lead to long-term medical complications and costly rehabilitation.
How Can You Stay Safe on the Turnpike?
While not all crashes are avoidable, following these safety tips can reduce your risk:
Avoid truck blind spots and never linger beside a tractor-trailer.
Maintain a safe following distance and avoid sudden braking or weaving.
Plan your route in advance so you’re not forced into last-minute exits.
Wear your seatbelt at all times.
Slow down in poor weather and construction zones, where visibility and road conditions can change quickly.
Remaining alert and patient is one of the best defenses against reckless or distracted drivers.
What Should You Do If You Are Involved in a Turnpike Accident?
If you’re involved in a crash on the Turnpike:
Check for injuries and call 911 for emergency assistance.
Move to a safe location, such as the shoulder, if it’s possible and safe to do so.
Exchange information with the other driver, but avoid making statements about fault.
Document the scene with photos of vehicle damage, roadway conditions, and any visible injuries.
Collect contact information from any witnesses.
You should also seek medical care—even if you feel fine initially—as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Will Upcoming Construction Projects Make the Turnpike Safer?
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has launched widening projects, especially between Exits 6 and 9, with the goal of easing congestion. However, some experts warn that adding more lanes may lead to increased traffic volumes over time, potentially offsetting any safety benefits. In the short term, construction zones pose their own risks due to narrow lanes, shifting traffic patterns, and reduced visibility. Drivers should remain especially cautious in these areas and follow all posted signage.
Contact the New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. After a New Jersey Turnpike Crash
If you have sustained an injury in an accident on the New Jersey Turnpike, contact the New Brunswick car accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. for legal assistance. Call us at 732-247-3600 or fill out our online form to set up a free consultation. Located in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.
