New Jersey’s roads connect communities, facilitate commerce, and carry us to new places and exciting new experiences. However, some of our roadways are notoriously dangerous due to their highly challenging driving conditions, accident rates, and number of fatalities.
The top 10 deadliest roads in New Jersey, ranked in order of danger, include:
Route 1: Known for heavy traffic and frequent accidents, Route 1 has a high incidence of fatal crashes. The combination of commercial traffic, high speeds, and frequent lane changes makes it one of the most dangerous roads in the state. In Middlesex County, a multi-jurisdictional task force is cracking down on dangerous driving to reduce the number of fatal car accidents, especially on Route 1, with its recent surge in fatal crashes.
Garden State Parkway: One of the busiest highways in New Jersey, the Garden State Parkway has one of the highest fatality rates due to high speeds and large traffic volume.
Burlington Pike (Route 130): This road is notorious for its high rate of pedestrian fatalities, with certain portions in Burlington County among the state’s most dangerous. Multiple lanes, high speeds, and a lack of pedestrian bridges or safe crossings make it a deadly road for both drivers and those on foot.
White Horse Pike (Route 30): Route 30 has had 51 fatalities over four years in one 58.3-mile stretch, resulting in an annual rate of 21 fatalities per 100 miles. The road has many pedestrian crossings, poorly marked intersections, and frequent drunk-driving incidents.
North-South Freeway (Route 42): Route 42 is a major route to the Jersey Shore, a 14.3-mile stretch that experienced 22 fatalities in four years. The freeway’s high congestion, speeding, and frequent lane changes contribute to a high rate of accidents.
Route 129 in Trenton: Known for its heavy traffic and numerous intersections, Route 129 has a high accident rate, especially during rush hours. The road’s design, with its sharp curves and frequent merges, contributes to dangerous driving conditions.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Highway (Interstate 676): This highway sees significant commuter traffic, leading to congestion and frequent accidents. The narrow lanes and poor visibility in certain sections make it particularly hazardous.
Route 21 from Newark to Clifton: This stretch of road is notorious for its high speeds and aggressive drivers. The frequent on and off-ramps, combined with heavy commercial traffic, result in numerous accidents and fatalities.
Route 440: Route 440 experiences heavy traffic throughout the day, with a high number of commercial trucks. The road’s uneven surfaces and frequent construction zones add to the danger, leading to a high incidence of accidents.
Interstate 280: Interstate 280 has several sharp curves and steep inclines, making it challenging for drivers, especially in adverse weather conditions. The high speeds and heavy traffic contribute to its reputation as one of the deadliest roads in New Jersey.
Additionally, a recent New Jersey Advance Media study based on New Jersey Department of Transportation data identified 10 of the worst intersections with the highest fatality rates over a five-year period. Two are located in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
How Can I Stay Safe on New Jersey’s Deadliest Roads?
Staying safe on New Jersey’s most dangerous roads requires a combination of awareness, defensive driving, and adherence to traffic laws. Here are some tips to help you navigate these hazardous routes more safely:
Always be aware of your surroundings.
Do not text or use your phone while driving.
Follow the speed limit.
Wear your seat belt.
Increase your following distance in hazardous conditions.
Use extra caution in intersections.
Pre-plan your route to avoid the most dangerous roads, especially during peak traffic times.
New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Will Help You After a Crash
