Residents of the Garden State can be proud of its many claims to fame, from Olympian Milt Campbell to the E Street Band. Unfortunately, the state also has a degree of notoriety when it comes to motorists. Drivers in certain NJ cities represent some of the worst in the nation. Recognizing New Jersey’s questionable driving record may be the first step in protecting yourself and your loved ones as you navigate busy city streets.
New Jersey drivers do not represent the worst drivers in the United States — that honor currently falls to drivers in Washington, D.C. However, four NJ cities topped New York, NY for drivers likely to be involved in crashes, according to a 2012 insurance study reported by Forbes.com.
By recognizing some of the following risks that seem prevalent on NJ roads, you can take defensive action to avoid many collisions:
- Distance yourself from aggressive drivers. When you see vehicles speeding or weaving between lanes of traffic, try to move over so they can get ahead of you, where you can see and avoid them.
- Avoid distractions. When the risk of accidents is magnified, you need to focus all your attention on the road. To makes sure your eyes and your brain are fully engaged, use only a hands-free phone when absolutely necessary, and never text while driving.
- Allow plenty of time. Listen to traffic reports and make sure you leave early enough to make it to your destination without rushing. Remember — it is better to arrive too early than to have to cancel while you wait for emergency treatment at the hospital.
Taking measures like these can help you avoid most car crashes. But even the most cautious motorists are likely to be involved in some form of auto accident during their driving careers. If you suffer injuries in an accident caused fully or partially by another driver, you may have grounds for pursuing compensation. As soon as possible, contact an experienced New Jersey injury attorney who can help you understand your legal rights.
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