According to a recent report from the New Jersey State Police, there were 556 deaths on New Jersey roads in 2010. While this is an inexcusably high number, there is one bright spot: the number of car accident fatalities in 2010 was the lowest since the 1940s.
There are many theories as to the reason for the decline in accident-related deaths. According to a spokesman for the State Police, the ongoing campaign to educate New Jersey drivers about the dangers of drunk and distracted driving and the importance of wearing seat belts, as well as enforcing related laws, is likely encouraging drivers to engage in safer behaviors behind the wheel.
According to the American Automobile Association, however, the decline is likely due to the fact that there are simply fewer drivers on the road due to the economic recession and the high unemployment rate. From 2006 to 2008, as the recession took hold and unemployment jumped, the number of New Jersey car accident deaths fell significantly, an AAA spokesman said. In addition, high gas prices have deterred motorists from taking to the road.
The report also included some interesting statistics about car crashes in the state. For example, rain was responsible for five times as many fatal accidents as snow. July is the most common month for car accidents, Friday is the most common day, and the afternoon rush hour is the most common time.
If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident, please contact Breslin & Breslin for a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys.
Source: NJ.com, “Report: N.J. fatal crashes in 2010 hit lowest total since 1940s,” Christopher Baxter, Oct. 8, 2011
