New Jersey is the most dangerous state for pedestrians in the U.S. Between 2018 and 2022, it had a high number of fatal crashes involving pedestrians. In total, there were 2,901 fatal car accidents in the state. Out of those, 915 crashes, or 31.5%, involved persons. This means that nearly one out of every three fatal crashes in New Jersey ended with a pedestrian’s death. Drugs and alcohol may be contributing to this high rate.

Pedestrian deaths in New Jersey reached a grim record high in 2024

In 2024, New Jersey reached a new, sad milestone. The number of deaths in car crashes hit a 36-year record high. A total of 221 were killed last year. This is a 29% increase from the previous year, 2023. The rise in deaths is troubling and shows a growing problem in the state. Even though there were fewer deaths in 2023, the number of pedestrian fatalities is climbing. This is a serious concern for public safety.

Drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol are increasing the risk

One of the key factors behind these high pedestrian deaths is the number of drivers using alcohol and drugs. Recent reports show that more drivers in New Jersey have been testing positive for alcohol, marijuana, and other narcotics in recent years. This trend is making the roads even more dangerous. Drivers under the influence have slower reaction times and may not see until it is too late.

Governor Murphy signs new legislation to reduce traffic deaths

In response to the rising pedestrian fatalities, Governor Phil Murphy signed a new law in January. The law created a commission called Target Zero. The commission has 13 members and aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by the year 2040. This plan is a long-term effort to reduce accidents and make roads safer for everyone, especially pedestrians and cyclists. Governor Murphy has said that New Jersey is committed to reaching the goal of zero fatalities. The law shows that the state is taking action to address the dangers people face.

New Jersey is not the only state with a pedestrian safety problem, but it is the worst. New York, for example, has the fourth-worst rate in the country. Between 2018 and 2022, New York had 1,367 deaths in car accidents. This is 27.6% of all fatal crashes in the state. This shows that other states are also facing challenges with safety. However, New Jersey’s numbers are higher, making it the most dangerous state for pedestrians.

Wyoming is the safest state for pedestrian safety

Wyoming stands out as the safest state for pedestrians. Between 2018 and 2022, Wyoming had just 41 deaths in car crashes. This makes up only 7.4% of the state’s total fatal crashes. Wyoming’s lower rate of deaths shows that some states are doing better at protecting pedestrians. The state’s focus on safety and awareness may be factors that help keep its roads safer for people compared to other states.