New Jersey wants to eliminate traffic deaths in the state by 2040

Sen. Pat Diegnan, chair of the state’s Senate Transportation Committee, was a prime sponsor of the measure.

“Out of incomprehensible tragedies, the grieving family members who have been supportive of this legislation continue to keep alive the indomitable spirit of their loved ones, turning heartbreaking loss into life-changing advocacy,” Diegnan said. “They embody why making our roads safe for all road users must be a priority for our state. The commission will create a clear and comprehensive plan to save lives and protect our communities.”

“New Jersey’s rise in traffic fatalities is a trend that we absolutely must reverse,” said Asm. Rob Karabinchak, another prime sponsor of the measure. “I can’t imagine the pain of losing a loved one in a senseless traffic accident. No family should endure the devastation caused by reckless drivers or dangerous roadways. These deaths are preventable, and we must take action to improve safety.”

Tracy Noble, a spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic, said the number of people killed in vehicle accidents in New Jersey is unacceptable.

“We need to stop deciding to drive distracted. We need to stop deciding to get behind the wheel if we are impaired by alcohol or drugs, whether it be legal [or]recreational, and we need to eliminate driving well above the speed limit,” she said.

“We’ve seen survey after survey that says it’s not me, it’s the other guy,” Noble added. “Well, you need to take stock of what you’re doing, as well.”

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia strongly supported the passage of the bill.

“The signing of this bill reminds us of our beloved colleague and fellow cyclist, Andrea Gonzalez, who was tragically killed by a driver in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, in October 2023,” Christopher Gale, the coalition’s executive director, said. “Her loss and the many other lives lost due to crashes with vehicles moves us to keep this urgent issue at the forefront and we are committed to working alongside New Jersey lawmakers to achieve zero deaths on our transportation network.”