New Jersey drivers, long plagued by stereotypes, have new evidence to counter their critics. A survey by AutoInsurance.org ranked the Garden State fifth in the nation for driver safety, highlighting its drivers’ relatively clean records and strong adherence to traffic laws.
The study considered factors such as fatality rates, DUIs, speeding violations, and at-fault accidents to assess driving performance across the United States. New Jersey stood out for its low rate of fatal accidents, despite having nearly 6.5 million licensed drivers navigating some of the country’s busiest highways.
The Breakdown
New Jersey’s ranking reflects its commitment to road safety compared to many states where fatality rates remain alarmingly high. The study notes that urban areas like New Jersey benefit from better infrastructure and lower-speed traffic, contributing to fewer fatalities. However, the state still struggles with at-fault accidents as its most common driving infraction—a reflection of its dense population and busy roadways.
Context on U.S. Driving Trends
The survey highlights stark contrasts nationwide. States like Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., and New York ranked higher than New Jersey, primarily due to their exceptionally low fatality rates. These areas benefit from slower urban traffic and stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
In contrast, rural states such as Mississippi, Wyoming, and Arkansas ranked worst, with Mississippi recording over 25 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents. Issues like impaired driving and lack of seat belt use were significant contributors to these states’ poor rankings.
Road Safety Challenges
Despite its high ranking, New Jersey is not without challenges. The state’s dense traffic and occasional road rage are factors that locals readily acknowledge. However, its drivers’ ability to navigate complex road systems safely sets them apart.
New Jersey’s high ranking should quiet some of the criticisms about its drivers, proving that while road rage might flare up occasionally, the state’s drivers are far from being the menace they are often portrayed to be.