Bill Aiming to End Traffic-Related Deaths Clears NJ General Assembly

Taking an important step in the State’s efforts to end traffic-related deaths, the New Jersey General Assembly today passed bill A1476.

Sponsored by Assemblymen Robert J. Karabinchak and John Allen and Assemblywoman Linda S. Carter, the legislation would establish a New Jersey Target Zero Commission to study, examine, and review traffic safety measures with a focus on access, equity, and mobility for all road users.

While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration noted that traffic fatalities declined nationwide during the first quarter of 2024, they rose in New Jersey during that same time period.

“New Jersey’s rise in traffic fatalities is a trend that we absolutely must reverse,” said Assemblyman Karabinchak (D-Middlesex). “I can’t imagine the pain of losing a loved one in a senseless traffic accident. No parent should ever have to bury a family member because our roads are not safe. 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.”

Under the bill, a commission comprising of 13 members would have the responsibility, among other tasks, to develop a comprehensive and coordinated action plan aimed at achieving the goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roadways by 2040.

“This legislation serves as a reminder that traffic fatalities can be avoided if the right resources are in place,” said Assemblyman Allen (D-Hudson). “The commission established by this bill would help us plan and allocate resources so that we can reach zero, and ultimately an end to pedestrian fatalities.”

The commission would also identify short- and long-term data-driven strategies with measurable goals, and advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding policies, programs, research, and priorities to help achieve the goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2040. Additionally, it tasks the commission with creating and maintaining an interactive website that would include items such as the commission’s plans, progress reports, meeting agendas and minutes, and educational materials about target zero.

“Convening traffic safety experts to work on ways to increase access, equity and mobility is crucial to reaching Target Zero,” said Assemblywoman Carter (D-Somerset, Union). “When we set out to make our roads safer, we must be mindful of cars, pedestrians and others who share our roadways.”

The commission’s “Target Zero” objective to eliminate traffic-related deaths draws inspiration from Sweden’s Vision Zero policy. With an emphasis on designing road systems and policies to mitigate accidents and fatalities, Vision Zero distributes responsibility for pedestrian safety among road users, designers, engineers, and policymakers.