New Jersey Pedestrian Deaths at Highest Levels in 36 Years

Pedestrian accidents in New Jersey are often difficult for victims and their families. People have zero protection when they are walking down the street, and even a low-speed impact with a vehicle can be fatal. According to recent statistics, these fatalities are higher than they have been for several decades. More pedestrians are dying in New Jersey, leaving behind grieving families, unpaid bills, and lost income. What can you do if your loved one dies in a fatal pedestrian accident? Can a personal injury lawyer help you pursue compensation?

Pedestrian Deaths Surge by 29% Over the Course of a Single Year

Various sources have reported that pedestrian deaths are higher than most people can remember. These fatalities have not occurred at this rate since 1988. In 2024, 221 pedestrians died in New Jersey. This represents a 29% increase compared to 2023. Media sources also noted that 2025 was “off to a rough start,” immediately beginning with several auto and pedestrian deaths. Although the root causes of these surges are not clear, statistics show that more drivers are testing positive for alcohol and marijuana intoxication. 

New Jersey Governor Signs Bill in Reaction to High Pedestrian Deaths

Shortly after these shocking statistics were released, Governor Phil Murphy took steps to improve pedestrian safety. He signed a bill to create a commission with the specific goal of ending traffic fatalities by 2040. This commission will include representatives from the state police, Health Department, NJ Transit, and various other government organizations. 

This commission’s specific goals include collecting traffic safety data and creating an annual report. Many observers are not confident that this commission will achieve its goal of eliminating pedestrian deaths. Some believe that the new bill is a political maneuver, as the Governor clearly had to act in response to the abysmal traffic safety statistics. 

2025 Begins With a Slew of Pedestrian Accidents

2025 may prove to be even worse than 2024 in terms of pedestrian fatalities. The new year began with several such pedestrian deaths, and this does not bode well for the remaining 11 months. 

On January 1, 2025, it was reported that a pedestrian had been struck and killed just hours before the start of the new year. This accident occurred in Atlantic City, and it involved two separate vehicles. At about 11 PM on New Year’s Eve, the victim attempted to cross a road before being struck by the first vehicle. After this first impact, the driver pulled over and cooperated with law enforcement. 

A second vehicle then approached, running over the pedestrian while he was prone on the road. This driver then dragged the victim a short distance before also stopping and cooperating with law enforcement. No charges were announced by the authorities, who stated that both drivers had the right of way. 

Days earlier, a boy was injured after being struck by a NJ transit bus. The child was apparently trying to cross a road when he was struck by the bus, which was turning right at an intersection. It is not clear who had the right of way. The child suffered a broken foot and was hospitalized. 

On January 3, it was reported that a woman from Wildwood Crest had been charged for a fatal hit-and-run on New Year’s Eve. The crash killed a pedestrian in Wildwood, and the driver allegedly drove away without stopping. 

Weeks later, another pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run – this time in Woodlynne. Although police identified the victim, they did not immediately discover who had committed this crime. 

Also in January, a pedestrian was struck and killed in Paramus. The victim was attempting to cross the street when he was hit by a pickup truck and suffered fatal injuries. It is not clear whether the driver will face any legal consequences. 

Can a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in New Jersey Help Me?

A pedestrian accident lawyer in New Jersey may be able to help if you have lost a loved one. With pedestrians dying at historically high rates, these accidents are becoming increasingly common. One has to wonder whether the government could be doing more to prevent these accidents, but no law will ever bring back those who have already died. Grieving families may consider legal action against negligent drivers, and this may provide a sense of closure or justice. It may also hold drivers accountable, potentially reducing similar accidents in the future. Reach out to Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C., today to get started with an action plan.