NEWARK, N.J. — A recent study analyzing a decade’s worth of fatal car crash data has identified July, Saturdays, and the 9 p.m. hour as the most dangerous times for drivers in New Jersey. The findings, based on data from the Department of Transportation’s Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST), offer insights into the riskiest periods on the state’s roads from 2013 to 2022.
According to the study, conducted by The Barber Law Firm, a Dallas-based personal injury law firm, July stands out as the most hazardous month for drivers, accounting for 574 fatalities—9.62% of the state’s total of 5,969 car crash deaths. Saturdays emerged as the deadliest day for driving, with 1,043 fatalities, representing 17.47% of all fatal crashes. The most dangerous time of day to be on the road is between 9:00 and 9:59 p.m., with 369 fatalities, or 6.18% of total crash deaths.
On average, New Jersey experiences 49.74 car crash fatalities per month and 1.64 per day, underscoring the consistent threat to drivers statewide.
Kris Barber, founder and principal attorney of The Barber Law Firm, emphasized the importance of drivers being aware of these high-risk times. “This awareness enables drivers to plan safer trips by avoiding peak accident times,” Barber said. He also advised using navigation apps to avoid congested routes and hazardous weather, while maintaining safe distances from other vehicles.
The study’s results highlight the need for heightened caution during specific times of the week and year, as New Jersey drivers face elevated risks on the road.