New Jersey is One of the Worst States for Drivers

A recent Bankrate study found that New Jersey was among the worst states for drivers when factoring in cost, safety, and driving quality for drivers. In fact, the state of New Jersey ranked as the fourth worst state for drivers, following California at number one, Hawaii at number two, and Connecticut at number three.

Drivers near the coasts are much more likely to spend a considerable amount of time stuck in traffic jams, as opposed to drivers who can roll across the Midwest and Great Plains with relatively few interruptions. North Dakota was ranked as the number one state for the best driving experience, with drivers finding the state affordable, safe, and reliable. Other states ranked at the top for best driving experience included Iowa, Ohio, Minnesota, and Nebraska.

Where you live has a huge impact on what you will pay to own a vehicle. If you happen to live in an area full of poorly maintained roads and plenty of traffic jams, you will pay more money both in road taxes as well as in maintenance to your vehicle.

An In-depth Look at the Bankrate Study

North Dakota is considered to be a very safe state for those on the roadways, with a fatality rate of 1.16 deaths per 100 million miles driven, and a theft rate of 234.7 vehicles per 100,000 inhabitants. These numbers are considerably lower than the national average. North Dakota also offers lower prices on gas, lower prices on auto insurance, and even lower prices on the costs of maintenance and repairs. North Dakota also ranks high in driver satisfaction because only about 10 percent of the state’s roads are considered to be in poor condition, and the average commute is only about 18 minutes.

On the flip side, California drivers routinely call their driving experiences a “traffic nightmare.” One commuter says her job commute would take about 20 minutes—if there was no traffic—however she routinely spends more than an hour commute each way every day. In contrast, the fact that only 10 percent of North Dakota’s roads are considered in poor condition while a staggering 44 percent of California’s roads land in that category. (Across the nation, about 22 percent of roadways are considered in poor condition). California drivers will also face higher auto insurance premiums, higher gas costs, a higher rate of auto theft, and even higher costs of auto repairs.

So Why Does New Jersey Rank So Low?

According to the study, New Jersey had an overall better safety score than many states, but a significantly reduced driving quality score, as well as a reduced cost score. This means that while fewer accidents occur here in the Garden State, overall, drivers pay more money in auto repairs, gas prices, and insurance premiums. In addition, drivers spend more time commuting to work here than in other states, reducing their overall quality of life and driving experience.

Injured in a New Jersey Car Accident?

If you or someone you love is injured in an accident in Vineland, Millville, Hamilton Township, Atlantic City, or anywhere in the state of New Jersey, it is important to retain the services of an experienced and skilled New Jersey car accident attorney as soon as possible. Call Rosner Law Office, P.C. today for a free initial consultation and review of your case. Contact us at (856) 502-1655 or fill out our confidential contact form and someone will call you back immediately.

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