By: Richard L. Smith
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, in collaboration with the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS), announced a significant reduction in traffic-related fatalities for the year 2023.
Preliminary data up to January 8, 2024, indicates a 9.4% decrease in fatal crashes, dropping from 646 in 2022 to 585 in 2023. This marks a 10.4% overall reduction in fatalities from 2022 and an 11.5% decrease from 2021.
The decline in traffic deaths includes drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, with a notable 16.5% decrease in motor vehicle passenger deaths. Driver fatalities fell by 12.4%, and pedestrian fatalities saw an 8.4% reduction.
Attorney General Platkin recognized this improvement as significant, especially considering the high traffic fatality rates in the past two years. Despite this progress, he emphasized the ultimate goal of zero traffic fatalities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there was a 4.5% decrease in national road fatalities during the first three quarters of 2023.
New Jersey ranks among the 33 states that experienced a reduction in traffic deaths, with a notable decline in 14 of its 21 counties.
Michael J. Rizol Jr., Director of the HTS, attributed this success to collective efforts and stressed the importance of ongoing work to further reduce fatalities.
In 2023, HTS invested over $25 million in law enforcement and strategic partners to support traffic safety initiatives, combining enforcement and educational campaigns for maximum impact.
HTS utilized various platforms for public awareness campaigns, highlighting the importance of safe driving and the dangers of irresponsible behavior behind the wheel.
Despite the progress in 2023, the mission to eliminate traffic-related deaths continues. HTS focuses on reducing the main hazards causing these tragedies, such as impaired and distracted driving, speeding, and failure to wear a seatbelt.
HTS reiterates its commitment to saving lives on New Jersey roads, calling for motorists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws.
Through collective responsibility and cooperation, HTS aims to build on the successes of 2023 and work towards creating safer roadways with zero fatalities.