Driving in and around Point Pleasant can be quite challenging. The area is known for its heavy traffic, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons. The combination of high traffic volume, poor road conditions and unpredictable weather can make driving here particularly hazardous.
According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, there were 14,741 total crashes and 3,385 crashes with reported injuries in 2022 (the most recent year with final numbers). Tragically, 48 of those crashes were fatal. It is essential to acknowledge these numbers and understand which roads are the most hazardous.
5 dangerous roads and intersections
Over 59% of all fatal and serious injury crashes in Ocean County happen on local roads. Here are five that are often cited:
- Route 9: This road is notorious for its high accident rate, especially for cyclists. It is considered Ocean County’s most dangerous road for biking, with a significant number of accidents occurring here.
- Route 35: Running through the barrier island communities, Route 35 has a lot of traffic, especially during the summer months, and has a high rate of accidents involving both vehicles and pedestrians.
- Route 88: This road often experiences significant traffic and has been the site of numerous accidents, with poor lighting and road conditions contributing to its danger.
- Route 549: Known for its multiple lanes and lack of proper bike lanes, this road is dangerous for both drivers and cyclists. The road design forces cyclists into traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Bridge Avenue: This winding section is perilous due to its high traffic volume and frequent congestion. Accidents here are often due to speeding, drivers pulling out of parking lots, drivers taking left turns and distracted driving.
Those interested in drilling down into these statistics and roads can go to Ocean County’s interactive map, which highlights accidents, injuries and fatalities. The surrounding area can also be quite risky.
Stay safe out there
To navigate these dangerous roads and conditions safely, consider some of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s precautionary measures:
- Stay focused
- Obey speed limits
- Drive sober
- Use seat belts
- Plan your route
Respect for current driving conditions and watching other drivers can make a difference.
Holding Reckless Drivers Accountable
Accidents occur despite taking all necessary precautions, particularly when other drivers are less careful. It is essential to hold these drivers accountable to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. A law firm with a long history in the area and experienced car accident attorneys can be a tremendous asset because they know the local courts and staff and have extensive legal experience helping those who suffer injuries due to others’ negligence. Let’s make our roads safer for everyone.