Intersections are the sites for a high percentage of the nation’s road fatalities. Human error and poor design contribute to many crashes at New Jersey intersections, among the nation’s most dangerous.
However, the state is taking measures to address this growing problem and improve intersection safety.
What is a dangerous intersection?
A significant number of the nation’s fatal collisions occur at intersections. However, according to studies using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the most dangerous intersections are the sites of at least three fatal crashes between 2000 and 2019. In addition, New Jersey has the top three deadliest intersections in the nation, including:
- Lalor Street and SR-129 in Trenton with nine fatalities
- East Jersey and US 1 & 9 in Elizabeth with nine fatalities
- Massachusetts Avenue and SR-70 in Tom’s River with eight fatalities
New Jersey’s Department of Transportation is working to improve safety at these and other intersections for motorists and pedestrians.
How is New Jersey improving intersection safety?
New Jersey is among a growing number of states with cities embracing Vision Zero, a program relying upon multiple community stakeholders to eliminate road fatalities by reducing crash injury severity. For example, Intersection Improvement Programs are replacing traffic signals at dangerous locations with reflective LED lights that are easier to see when visibility is poor. Also, new signaling features permit drivers to turn left at a green arrow only. Road enhancements in the vicinity of intersections include bump strips and lane arrows that ensure drivers remain alert and do not veer into the wrong lane.
New Jersey’s efforts to improve road safety are promising but drivers and pedestrians also contribute to safe crossings at dangerous intersections.