Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of summer and with that will come a rise in the number of people on the road in New Jersey and across the United States. More people going to the Garden State or passing through it can add to the chance of a crash with injuries and death.
Recently, it was reported that New Jersey is one of the top three states that had the highest increase in summer road fatalities. Since this is a known problem, it is essential for people to be vigilant as they prepare for summer travels of their own or have an influx of people in the state.
USDOT says summer road fatalities have risen by 18% in the latest data
The U.S. Department of Transportation has sounded the alarm on road dangers with its latest fatality statistics. For the summer months of June, July and August, there has been an increase of 18% since 2018.
In addition to New Jersey, the other states that saw the highest increases were Minnesota and Rhode Island. The problem has been nationwide with only six states experiencing a reduction. Around one in four are said to be due to speeding. For 2018, there were 139 summertime road deaths in New Jersey. By 2021, that increased to 185.
Summer is notorious for more lost lives in auto collisions. In 2020 and 2021, almost one in three fatalities occurred in those three months. Among the catalysts for the increase in fatalities are more traffic; more teen drivers taking to the road; and more drivers who are under the influence. The demographic that had the most worrisome spike in deaths were those 25 to 44.
Drivers are advised to follow the law by not drinking and driving; avoid the temptation to drive while distracted; stick to the speed limits; and try not to get angry and stressed out while driving.
The aftermath of an auto accident can be difficult and it is wise to seek help
As the summer gets underway, people will undoubtedly be excited to take trips and enjoy the warmer weather. Others will feel the same making it likelier that there will be heavy traffic and more people who might indulge in risky behaviors.
When there is an auto accident, people can suffer injuries that lead to major medical expenses, the inability to work as they did before and an uncertain future. When there is a fatality, the family left behind will need to think about all they have lost and how they will move forward. For these cases, it is essential to know what options are available and contacting qualified professionals can help.
