A mother and her two young sons were injured by an SUV driver as they left a Freehold preschool in mid-February, 2026. All three family members suffered injuries. The driver was later arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, according to the injured mother.

The incident underscores the importance of several driving-related safety factors. Staying sober behind the wheel, driving carefully near schools, and paying attention to the risks unique to spring driving can all help you stay safe and keep others safe as well.

Here are some of the most common safety risks in New Jersey springtime driving.

Watch Out for Pedestrians

Warm days bring people outside to enjoy the sunshine. From kids running full speed out of school playgrounds to elderly neighbors taking a stroll, spring means more pedestrians on the roads. 

Pedestrian deaths and injuries increase during warmer months. This increase often begins in March or April and lasts until October. As people step outside to enjoy warmer weather, drivers must be alert to share the road.

Drivers can protect themselves and others by slowing down and watching for pedestrians. Be especially alert in school zones, residential areas, and shopping and recreational districts. 

Spring Means Bikes – Of All Kinds

Pedestrians aren’t the only ones who head outside to enjoy warm spring weather. Bicycle and motorcycle enthusiasts also dust off their favorite rides and look forward to hitting the road. Electric bikes (e-bikes) y electric scooters are also popular, especially with younger riders. 

In New Jersey, bicycles and motorcycles have the legal right to use the roads. Like other vehicles, bikes and motorcycles must follow road rules. Drivers who don’t slow down and watch for these vehicles run the risk of causing an accident – and being held liable for negligence. 

Be Prepared for Construction Season

Flowers aren’t the only thing blooming in New Jersey’s spring weather. As the days get longer, warmer, and sunnier, construction cones, barriers, and barrels also start to pop up on the state’s roads. 

If you developed the habit of driving more slowly on winter’s snow and ice, stick with this habit as construction season begins. Give yourself the time you need to get to your destination. Use the state Department of Transportation website or local government sites to keep track of big construction projects that are happening on your usual routes. 

When driving through work zones, slow down. Increase your following distance. If the vehicle in front of you stops suddenly, you’ll be ready to slow down without risking a crash. Avoid distractions when traveling through work zones. Even a few seconds of distraction can cause serious injuries when you’re traveling near heavy equipment and construction workers. 

Keep an Eye on the Weather

Spring weather can change quickly, especially in New Jersey. Check the weather forecast before you head out. If storms are predicted, keep the radio on and turned low so you’ll hear any sudden emergency broadcast.

If an emergency weather alert happens, pull off the road and seek shelter. Find a safe place to park until conditions improve. 

Don’t count out winter just yet! Ice and snow can occur even into April. Keep your winter travel kit in your car. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance on icy, wet, or slippery roads.

Finally, don’t assume that just because the days are longer, you’re in the clear. The angle of the sun during early spring and in fall can blind drivers, especially if you’re headed into the sunrise or sunset. Keep sunglasses in your car, drive more slowly, and consider altering your route. 

Never Drive Intoxicated

Conducción bajo los efectos del alcohol o las drogas are now the number-one cause of death in New Jersey vehicle collisions, according to a recent State Police report. As the recent Freehold incident shows, drunk driving can lead to serious injuries and other major consequences. A person who chooses to drive while drunk or high can face both criminal charges and civil liability if they cause an accident.

Drunk and drugged driving crashes are preventable. When you’re planning spring cookouts, St. Patrick’s Day festivities, and other events, plan ahead. Know what your sober route home is, whether it’s with a designated driver, on public transit, using a rideshare service, or walking. Limit your drinks while you’re out, so you don’t cause serious harm to yourself or others. 

If you or someone you love is injured this spring, don’t wait. Speak to an experienced New Jersey car accident attorney. The team at Petrillo & Goldberg is here to help.