Year-to-date information from the New Jersey State Police reveals that Middlesex County leads the state in traffic deaths. These deaths affected vehicle drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Middlesex County Has the Most Traffic Deaths in New Jersey

According to State Police data, as of the end of November 2024, Middlesex County recorded 58 traffic deaths in 52 accidents – the highest rate of any New Jersey county. 

The 58 recorded deaths included:

• 27 drivers,
• 10 passengers,
• 20 pedestrians, and
• 1 bicyclist.

These numbers contribute to an increase in traffic deaths overall. As of the end of November 2024, New Jersey had recorded 613 traffic accident deaths. In 2023, the number at the end of November was 536 deaths. Between 2023 and 2024, traffic deaths have risen 14.5 percent in New Jersey after dropping 14 percent between 2022 and 2023. 

New Jersey Roadway Death Statistics by County

While Middlesex County may lead New Jersey in roadway deaths for 2024, it is not the only county posting high numbers of driver, passenger, bicyclist, or pedestrian deaths. 

Following closely behind Middlesex County is Atlantic County, with 51 total roadway deaths as of December 2, 2024. Rounding out the top five are Monmouth County (47 deaths), Essex County (46 deaths), and Ocean County (43 deaths). 

Burlington County leads the state with the most driver deaths in car accidents. As of December 2, 2024, Burlington County reported 29 driver deaths in 41 total fatal car crashes. Atlantic County was second with 28 driver deaths in 50 total crashes, followed by Middlesex County with 27 deaths and Ocean County with 26 driver deaths.

Middlesex County also recorded the highest number of vehicle passenger deaths to date in 2024. Gloucester County was second, with seven-passenger deaths in 26 total fatal crashes. Union County recorded six passenger deaths in 32 total fatal crashes. 

As of December 2, 2024, Atlantic County and Monmouth County are tied for the most dangerous counties for bicyclists. Each county has recorded four bicyclist deaths this year to date. Salem County recorded three bicyclist deaths, while Ocean, Middlesex, and Bergen Counties have recorded two deaths each in this category. Several other counties have seen one bicyclist killed in a car accident in 2024. 

Essex County tops the list of deadliest counties for pedestrians in 2024. As of December 2, Essex County recorded 25 pedestrian deaths in 45 total car accidents. Middlesex County was second with 20 pedestrian deaths in 53 total crashes. 

Atlantic, Bergen, and Monmouth Counties tied for third, each logging 17 pedestrian deaths. However, Atlantic County has recorded 50 total car accidents in 2024, while Bergen County recorded only 36 and Monmouth 46. 

What To Do If You’re Injured in a New Jersey Car Accident

Car accident rates tend to rise during the winter holidays. Longer nights, inclement weather, and increased holiday driving all raise the risk of a crash. 

If you’re in a car accident during the winter holidays:

1. Think safety first. Move disabled vehicles out of the way of traffic if you can. Avoid moving a seriously injured person, however. Use vehicle lights, flares, flashlights, and other lighted or brightly colored items to warn oncoming vehicles about the crash site.
2. Call 911. Calling for emergency assistance can help in several ways. Emergency medical teams can provide medical treatment and transport to anyone who is injured. Firefighters can secure the scene, ensuring that those nearby are safe. Police can direct traffic safely, collect information about the crash, and investigate the causes. This information can help you handle insurance claims and legal claims if needed. 
3. Get medical care. In some cases, a person injured in a car accident is taken to the hospital right away. If you didn’t get emergency care immediately after the crash, see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can document your injuries and provide the treatment you need to recover. 
4. Save all your information. Save information related to the accident and your injuries. Keep copies of medical bills, towing, and car repair fees, police reports, and doctor’s notes. Keep all this information together in a safe place. 
5. Talk to an attorney. An experienced car accident lawyer can handle insurance negotiations and other tasks while you focus on healing from your injuries. 

At Petrillo & Goldberg, we’ve helped many clients recover the compensation they need after a serious accident. Our knowledgeable New Jersey car accident attorneys are here to help you as well. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced lawyer.