Middlesex County, intersected by major highways, leads New Jersey in fatal crashes for 2024, according to recent State Police data. Route 1, spanning from Plainsboro to Linden, was the site of 13 deadly incidents across Middlesex and Union counties, making it the most dangerous stretch in Central Jersey.

Efforts to improve safety on Route 1 include partnerships between local and state police in towns like North Brunswick and Edison. Enforcement initiatives target speeding, distracted driving, and reckless behavior. South Brunswick launched a “STOP” crash reduction plan, prioritizing high-risk intersections and driver compliance.

Fatalities in Middlesex County stand at 51, the highest among the state’s 21 counties. Neighboring Union and Somerset counties reported 29 and 18 fatal crashes, respectively. Pedestrian fatalities also remain significant, with Middlesex accounting for 19 incidents this year.

Despite these figures, the broader trend in New Jersey shows a decline in fatal crashes since the late 1960s, when over 1,200 incidents were recorded annually. The 2024 total of 569 marks a continued improvement, though advocates emphasize that preventable behaviors—such as speeding, failing to yield, and distracted driving—remain critical areas for driver action.

South Brunswick Traffic Safety Lt. Gary Holstend urged compliance, emphasizing that small changes, like wearing seatbelts and observing traffic signals, can save lives. Law enforcement’s focus will remain on reducing dangerous behaviors at high-risk locations.

Key Roads by Fatalities in Central Jersey (2024):

• Route 1: 13 crashes (Middlesex and Union counties)
• Route 9: 9 crashes
• Route 27: 6 crashes
• I-287: 6 crashes
• Garden State Parkway: 4 crashes

Efforts to combat the issue continue, with calls for more robust traffic safety measures and public awareness campaigns.