Car accidents across the US are increasing. The number of fatalities is also increasing. The latest report revealed that the number of fatal car accidents in the US has hit 40,000 for the third straight year.
New Jersey and more specifically, Teaneck are no exception to these statistics. Approximately 523 people were killed in New Jersey due to car accidents this year, according to the latest data recorded by the NJ State Police. In Bergen County, there have been a total of 37 fatalities so far in 2019.
It’s clear that with the ever-growing number of both drivers and cars on the road, more needs to be done to improve road safety. Here are a few ways that you can be a better driver.
Drunk Driving in Teaneck, NJ Remains a Major Factor
The statistics don’t lie when it comes to the adverse impact of alcohol intoxication. Approximately 24.8% of fatalities had consumed alcohol to some extent; these figures include legal and illegal intoxication.
Teaneck is one of 129 towns in NJ that has committed to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2019” campaign aimed at reducing the number of impaired drivers on the road. In 2018, 20 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in New Jersey were alcohol-related. Learn more about how you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of an alcohol related crash.
Reducing Distracted Driving:
196 fatalities were caused by driver inattention. This number has remained stubbornly high in New Jersey.
One of the main reasons for this is increased technology in the car. Something as simple as changing the radio station or being tempted to look at a smartphone screen can lead to disastrous life-altering consequences.
As we become more connected, this is becoming a factor that needs to be addressed, including more hands-free options and stricter punishments for those caught using devices when at the wheel.
Car manufacturers also need to start reevaluating the entertainment features installed in the front of the car. They need to ask whether they’re causing drivers to be more inattentive as systems become more complex.
Title 39 Addressing New Jersey Speed Limits
It’s no surprise that everyone is constantly in a hurry to be somewhere. 61 fatalities were caused by unsafe speed, which is a term used to refer to going over the speed limit.
Although this number has declined somewhat, it remains one of the major factors in fatal automobile accidents.
It’s been suggested that reducing the speed limit could lead to a reduction in the number of serious auto accidents. This is especially the case when the roads are wet or during the winter when snow and ice accumulate on the roads. Some towns in NJ have taken these recommendations and implemented reductions in speeding limits which has resulted in a sharp incline of tickets. This is where Title 39 comes into focus. According to this article “the money that drivers must pay in speeding fines — between $85 and $420, depending on the severity of the offense — does not all go into the town’s coffers. The municipality has to share much of it with the county and state.”
What Should You Do if Involved in an Auto Accident?
Auto accidents continue to be a serious problem across the state. Bergen County for example has reported 35 car accidents which has led to 37 fatalities in 2019 alone. New Jersey as a whole, has reported 491 car accidents. If involved in any form of auto accident, it’s important for you to call an attorney immediately.
A car accident lawyer will be able to help you get the justice you deserve. They will handle your case with care and give you the attention you deserve.
If you were involved in a car accident, make sure you document the damage and call an attorney today. They will help make this horrible event as stress-free as possible for you.
You can learn about Teaneck car accident lawyers here and start the process!