Distracted driving continues to contribute to many crashes across the nation. Research shows that the problem is particularly prolific in New Jersey. New Jersey has a bigger distracted driving problem than most states, and this means trouble for everyone traveling along the state’s roadways.
According to NJ 101.5, New Jersey is currently the second-worst state in the United States for distracted driving. Distracted driving encompasses many different driving behaviors. However, anything that takes a motorist’s cognitive, manual or visual attention away from the vehicle controls may fall under the “distracted driving” umbrella.
New Jersey distracted driving crash statistics
Currently, almost a quarter, or 24.6%, of the state’s fatal car wrecks involve distracted driving behaviors. Distracted driving also plays a big role in many nonfatal car crashes that take place within state lines. Only New Mexico faces a more severe distracted driving problem, with driver distraction factoring into 37.2% of fatal car crashes that occur within that state.
New Jersey distracted driving contributing factors
Many fatal and nonfatal crashes that take place in New Jersey and involve driver distraction have similar characteristics in common. Research suggests that behind-the-wheel cellphone use contributes to about 8% of all crashes involving driver distraction that produce at least one injury. In-vehicle cellphone use is even more common in fatal car crashes. The use of cell phones contributes to 13% of all fatal car crashes involving distracted driving.
Motorists who drive while distracted do more than threaten their own safety. They also enhance risks for everyone else on the roadway. For this reason, motorists who drive while distracted and cause others injuries may face sanctions for doing so.