Distracted Driving Accident Statistics
What the Data Says About Distracted Driving in New Jersey
We all know the danger—someone glances at their phone mid-drive, thinking, “It’s just a quick text.” But those distractions add up. And the numbers behind distracted driving crash statistics? They’re surprising, sobering—and much closer to home than you might think.
In this post, we’ll break down the latest NHTSA national data, dig into what’s happening right here in New Jersey, and share what drivers—and crash survivors—need to know about staying safe and holding at-fault parties accountable.
Whether you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident in Freehold, Monmouth County, or anywhere in New Jersey, working with an experienced injury attorney is the best way to protect your rights.
National Snapshot: The Big Picture
The NHTSA’s 2023 data shows distracted driving took 3,275 lives and caused an estimated 324,819 injuries across the U.S. That means nearly 8 percent of all fatal crashes and 13 percent of injury crashes involved distracted drivers.
And it’s not just phones. Distracted driving includes anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind off the road: Eating, adjusting music, even chatting counts.
Distracted Driving By the Numbers in New Jersey
According to the NHTSA’s annual report on highway safety for New Jersey, over 55% of crashes in the state between 2017 and 2021 involved speeding, impairment, or driver distraction. NJ is also a primary enforcement state, meaning police can pull you over just for using a handheld phone. Despite that, distracted driving remains a significant threat on our roads.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Young drivers face the most danger. Nationally, 7 percent of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 15–20 included distraction. That pattern holds in New Jersey, too—young adults still top the distracted-driving charts. But adults in their 30s and 40s aren’t far behind. Distraction doesn’t care about age—it only needs a momentary lapse.
Why These Numbers Matter
Numbers like these aren’t abstract—they represent real people: parents, kids, coworkers. Distracted driving has become one of the top causes of serious crashes, rivaling impairment and speeding. And while total traffic deaths have trended downward, distraction-related ones have remained stubbornly steady.
The result? More families are injured or grieving over a crash that could have been prevented. That’s why sharing the facts matters.
What’s Changing—And What’s Not
Overall, U.S. traffic deaths fell by 4.3 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, according to the NHTSA. Yet distracted-driving fatalities stayed steady at around 8% of total crashes. In response, both NHTSA and New Jersey have rolled out awareness campaigns (“Put the Phone Away or Pay”) and funded enforcement efforts. But numbers show that awareness alone isn’t enough.
What It Means for You
Distracted driving can sneak up fast. It might be a short text or glance that turns deadly. If a distracted driver hits you, the consequences are often severe and preventable. That’s where Noonan & McMahon can assist you.
We help crash victims in Freehold, Monmotuh County and throughout New Jersey obtain just compensation. We dig into the details, build a solid case, and hold negligent drivers—and sometimes even technology or system defects—responsible. If a distracted driver has injured you, trust us to handle all the legal details so you can focus on recovering.
Monmouth County Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys
Distracted driving isn’t just a national problem—it’s a local one. New Jersey roads are safer when drivers stay alert and victims seek justice. If a distracted driver injured you or a loved one, don’t wait. Contact Noonan & McMahon today to schedule a complimentary consultation.