As the weather warms and the days grow longer, summer brings more than just sunshine and vacations — unfortunately it also brings a significant increase in traffic accidents in our area. Between road trips, holiday travel, teen drivers on break and more pedestrians and cyclists on the road, summer can be one of the most dangerous times to be behind the wheel.
Specifically, South Jersey areas, including Atlantic and Cape May counties, saw a significant number of fatal auto accidents last year. Fifty-eight people died in traffic fatalities in Atlantic County — the highest number in a decade. Less serious, but also of great significance and concern is that last year 1,912 car accidents with reported injuries occurred in Atlantic County.
As a local injury attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how a moment of distraction or poor judgment can change lives forever. My goal with this article is to help keep our community safe by sharing a few tips to avoid accidents — and what to do if the unexpected happens.
Why summer traffic is so risky
Summer typically sees a spike in traffic volumes due to vacations, concerts and outdoor play (including e-bikes and golf carts these days). Weekends like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July bring increased traffic, and that comes with more accidents, especially in our crowded shore towns and on the busy (and often backed up) Parkway and Expressway.
Additionally, summer often brings more teen drivers with less experience, increased alcohol consumption at social events, road construction projects, causing detours, delays and driver fatigue from long road trips. All of these factors contribute to a perfect storm for accidents.
How to stay safe on the road
The good news is, most accidents are preventable. I want you to be safe. Here are a few simple steps to reduce your risk:
• Plan ahead. Know your route, check traffic updates and avoid peak travel times if possible.
• Avoid distractions. Keep your eyes on the road — not your phone, the radio or the GPS.
• Stay sober. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch your speed. Obey limits and adjust for weather, traffic or road conditions.
• Take breaks. If you’re on a long drive, pull over and rest every two hours.
If you’re in an accident: What to do next
Even with every precaution, accidents still happen. If you’re involved in a crash, try to stay calm and take these essential steps:
1. Check for injuries. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is safe. Call 911 immediately if there are any injuries.
2. Move to safety. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further harm.
3. Call the police. Even for minor accidents, having a police report can be crucial later on for claims of injury and/or property damage.
4. Exchange information. Get names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, insurance information and vehicle descriptions.
5. Document the scene. If possible, take photos of the vehicles, damage, license plates and surrounding area.
6. Avoid discussing fault. Stay polite but don’t admit blame or argue about responsibility at the scene.
7. Seek medical attention. Some injuries take hours or days to appear. Don’t skip a medical evaluation — it protects both your health and your legal rights.
Final thoughts
Summertime should be about making memories — not recovering from an accident. By driving attentively and responsibly, you can help protect yourself, your passengers and everyone else on the road.
If you or a loved one is injured in an accident, I’m here to help. Understanding your rights, navigating insurance claims and ensuring fair compensation can be overwhelming. You don’t have to face it alone.
Drive safe and enjoy your summer!
Kelli Prinz, personal injury attorney at D’Arcy Johnson Day Lawyers
