The Garden State is known for its bustling cities, picturesque shorelines and rich history. However, it is also home to some of the most dangerous roads in the United States.
With its dense population and high traffic volume, the Garden State sees its fair share of accidents. Many of these accidents occur on a handful of particularly treacherous roadways. Knowing which roads pose the highest risks can help drivers stay particularly vigilant when necessary.
The criteria for “deadliest roads”
The term “deadliest roads” refers to roadways with a significant history of traffic fatalities and severe accidents. Contributing factors often include:
- High traffic volume
- Poor road design
- Insufficient lighting
- Excessive speed
- Driver error
Authorities and safety organizations collect and analyze data to identify these hazardous stretches. This way, they can provide valuable insights into how to reduce risks.
Route 1
Stretching through the heart of New Jersey, Route 1 is infamous for its heavy traffic and high accident rate. This highway connects major cities, including Trenton and New Brunswick, making it a vital but dangerous artery for commuters. Congestion, frequent lane changes and numerous intersections increase the likelihood of collisions. Poor visibility at night and in inclement weather further exacerbate the risks.
Garden State Parkway
As one of the state’s busiest highways, the Garden State Parkway is another dangerous road. Spanning from Cape May to the New York border, this highway sees a mix of local and long-distance traffic. Common hazards include speeding, distracted driving and frequent merging. Certain stretches near major urban centers are notorious for multi-vehicle accidents.
Interstate 287
Known for its sharp curves and rapidly changing traffic patterns, Interstate 287 is a hot spot for accidents. The highway’s design, combined with high speeds and distracted drivers, creates a potentially perilous environment. Particular trouble spots include exits with heavy merging and areas near major commercial hubs.
Route 22
Route 22 is a major east-west roadway that has earned a reputation for its chaotic driving conditions. The road’s numerous entrances, exits and jughandles make navigation challenging for both locals and visitors. Sudden stops and heavy congestion contribute to frequent rear-end collisions and side-swipes.
While the Garden State boasts an extensive network of roadways, several routes stand out as particularly hazardous. By staying alert and adapting to conditions, drivers can improve their safety on the abovementioned roads. However, in case of collisions due to another driver’s error, affected road users should know that they are empowered to seek justice for their damages.