Despite people staying at home more frequently and often keeping their activities virtual, fatal accidents and deaths caused by motor vehicle accidents rose in New Jersey in 2020. A range of factors can cause motor vehicle accidents, from poor conditions and mechanical failures to serious threats and distracted driving. Even when a crash is not fatal, the costs can be substantial. Accident victims may suffer life-threatening injuries and permanent disabilities, and many people may lose significant time at work.
Fatal crashes rise by 5%
In 2020, there were 549 fatal motor vehicle accidents, which was up from 524 in the two previous years. In addition, 586 people lost their lives in these crashes, up from 558 in 2019 and 563 in 2018. Not only were there more fatal crashes, but more people also lost their lives as a result. The vast majority of those killed in motor vehicle crashes in New Jersey were drivers, with 306 vehicle operators losing their lives during the year. However, 175 pedestrians, 20 cyclists and 85 passengers were also killed in 2020.
Motor vehicle accidents affect people of all ages
Despite younger drivers often receiving criticism for unsafe behaviors, drivers who lost their lives in accidents spanned the range of ages. Seventy-eight motor vehicle accident victims between the ages of 50 and 64 were killed, followed by 53 drivers between the ages of 30 and 39.
Even if you survive a car crash, the effects on your life may be substantial. You may face escalating medical bills, lost wages, and an inability to do the things you once loved to do. People injured in a motor vehicle accident because of someone else’s negligence may consult with a motor vehicle accident attorney about their options to pursue compensation.