New Jersey is known for its fast-moving highways and busy traffic, but some routes stand out for being especially risky. From crowded intersections to long winding highways, certain areas record far more accidents than others.
Knowing where these dangerous roads in New Jersey are located can help you stay alert and could even save a life. If you’ve been injured on one of these high-risk routes, it’s important to understand your options for seeking compensation.
Below are the top seven most dangerous roads and intersections in New Jersey, based on recent accident data and safety studies. If you or your loved one has been in a car accident, call us today to schedule a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve.
1. U.S. Route 40 – West End Avenue to Noah’s Road
U.S. Route 40 is one of the most dangerous roads in New Jersey, especially along the 3.9-mile stretch between West End Avenue and Noah’s Road. Reports show it has an average of nearly three fatal crashes per mile. A shocking rate compared to other state highways.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Mix of local, commercial, and tourist drivers
- Frequent speeding and limited shoulders
- Sudden merging traffic
Safety Tip: Slow down and stay focused when traveling through this corridor, especially during the summer months when vacation traffic peaks.
2. State Route 129 – Trenton
This short 2.4-mile highway in Trenton is one of the deadliest roads in New Jersey. Despite its length, it sees high fatality rates due to its layout and heavy traffic.
What makes Route 129 dangerous:
- Multiple intersections in a short distance
- Poor visibility and sharp curves
- Aggressive lane merging
Safety Tip: Maintain safe distances and avoid sudden lane changes in this area.
3. Garden State Parkway
The Garden State Parkway is one of the most heavily traveled highways in the state and a known car accident hotspot. With over 170 miles of roadway and tens of thousands of daily commuters, it’s no surprise that it ranks high among New Jersey’s dangerous highways.
Why it’s risky:
- High speeds and heavy traffic
- Out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with local exits
- Frequent rear-end and lane-change collisions
Safety Tip: Keep a steady speed, avoid tailgating, and plan exits early to prevent sudden lane shifts.
4. Interstate 80 – Northern New Jersey
Interstate 80 crosses through several northern counties and sees a mix of local and commercial vehicles. It’s a leading cause of multi-vehicle crashes in New Jersey due to its high-speed limits and weather-related hazards.
Danger factors:
- Tractor-trailers and commuter congestion
- Snow, fog, and ice in colder months
- Construction zones with shifting lanes
Safety Tip: Slow down in wet or icy conditions and keep an emergency kit in your car when driving through I-80.
5. Route 18 & Paulus Boulevard – New Brunswick
This intersection ranks among the most dangerous intersections in New Jersey. Fast-moving highway traffic meets city streets packed with pedestrians, cyclists, and turning vehicles. A risky mix that leads to frequent crashes.
Why it’s a problem area:
- Confusing layout and heavy foot traffic
- Poor visibility during rush hour
- Frequent rear-end and left-turn accidents
Safety Tip: Approach cautiously and pay attention to light changes. Avoid speeding through yellow lights.
6. East Jersey Street & U.S. 1/9 – Elizabeth
Another notorious intersection, East Jersey Street and U.S. 1/9 in Elizabeth, is considered one of the deadliest intersections in New Jersey. It combines industrial truck routes, high-speed commuter traffic, and pedestrian crossings in a compact area.
Contributing factors:
- Constant truck traffic and lane weaving
- Limited crossing time for pedestrians
- Poor visibility in bad weather
Safety Tip: Stay alert and expect sudden braking or merging when traveling through this intersection.
7. Route 70 & Massachusetts Avenue – Toms River
Located in Ocean County, this intersection has been featured on multiple lists of the most dangerous intersections in New Jersey. With local, beach, and commercial traffic converging, it’s a prime spot for crashes.
Why it’s risky:
- Seasonal congestion near the Jersey Shore
- Complex traffic signals and multiple turn lanes
- Drivers unfamiliar with the area
Safety Tip: Avoid distracted driving, especially during the summer when traffic volume spikes.
Honorable Mentions: Other Dangerous Roads and Intersections in New Jersey
While the seven above top the list, several other areas are also known for high crash rates and serious injuries:
- Route 1 & Bakers Basin Road around Lawrence Township
- Route 9 through Lakewood Township
- Route 22 in Union County
- Route 46 near Clifton
- Route 73 in Marlton
- Route 440 in Perth Amboy
- Route 21 through Newark and Belleville
What These Dangerous Roads Have in Common
Most of the crash-prone highways in New Jersey share the same issues: high speeds, unclear signage, and impatient drivers. But many serious crashes are caused by distracted or impaired driving, things that can be prevented.
Understanding these patterns helps drivers anticipate risks and stay proactive on the road.
Common Types of Accidents on New Jersey Roads
Even a minor accident can cause lasting injuries like whiplash, concussions, or back pain. If you’re hurt, it’s important to get medical care right away and speak with a car accident lawyer in New Jersey who can explain your rights.
Common Injuries From Accidents on New Jersey’s Dangerous Roads and Intersections
Crashes on New Jersey’s most dangerous roads and intersections can cause serious, life-changing injuries. The type and severity of injuries often depend on the speed of impact, vehicle size, and whether safety gear like seatbelts or helmets was used.
Here are some of the most common injuries victims suffer in roadway accidents:
- Whiplash and neck strain
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Lacerations and bruises
- Soft tissue injuries
- Psychological trauma
If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries, it’s important to get immediate medical attention and contact a car accident lawyer in New Jersey who can help you recover the full compensation you deserve.
If You’re in an Accident on These Roads
If you’re involved in a crash on one of New Jersey’s dangerous roads or intersections, here’s what to do:
- Check for injuries and call 911 immediately.
- Move to safety if possible without blocking traffic.
- Exchange information with all parties involved.
- Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Contact a car accident lawyer in New Jersey to understand your rights.
The right legal guidance can make a big difference in how your claim is handled and what compensation you may receive.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Road Accident
If you were injured on one of these dangerous roads in New Jersey, you might be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
An experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney can investigate your crash, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company so you can focus on healing.
They’ll also make sure your claim meets New Jersey’s statute of limitations, which is usually two years from the accident date, and protect you from unfair blame under the state’s modified comparative negligence rule.
Safety Tips for Driving on High-Risk Roads
To reduce your chances of an accident:
- Follow speed limits and use turn signals.
- Avoid distracted driving.
- Keep a safe distance from large trucks.
- Plan routes ahead, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.
- Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or fatigue.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
Even small precautions can make a big difference on New Jersey’s dangerous roads.
Why Choose Peter Michael Law After an Accident
When accidents happen on any of these dangerous roads in New Jersey, you need more than just a lawyer; you need someone who understands the local roads, the courts, and the insurance tactics used to minimize claims.
At Peter Michael Law, we’ve built a reputation for representing injured victims with compassion, honesty, and determination.
Here’s why drivers and families across New Jersey trust our firm:
- Local experience: We know the crash patterns and roadway issues across New Jersey counties.
- Multilingual support: Our team provides support for those speaking English, Spanish, and Arabic to ensure clear communication and understanding for every case.
- No upfront fees: You only pay if we recover compensation for you.
- Strong negotiation skills: We handle insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.
- 24/7 availability: Accidents don’t follow a schedule, and neither do we.
Our team handles all types of injury claims from car, motorcycle, to truck crashes. If your accident occurred on one of New Jersey’s crash-prone highways or intersections, we can guide you every step of the way, from investigating the scene to negotiating your settlement or taking your case to court.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Every accident case is unique. If you’ve been injured, contact Peter Michael Law today to discuss your specific situation.
Contact Our Accident Lawyers Today!
If you were hurt on one of New Jersey’s most dangerous roads or intersections, you don’t have to face the insurance companies or legal process alone.
The team at Peter Michael Law is dedicated to helping accident victims across New Jersey recover fair compensation for their injuries. Our attorneys handle cases involving car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, especially those that occur on high-risk highways and intersections. We’ll investigate your crash, gather evidence, and stand up for your rights from start to finish.
Contact Peter Michael Law today for a free consultation and trusted legal guidance after your accident. Let our experience help you rebuild after the unexpected.
