Driving in North Jersey is not for the faint of heart. The busiest section of the most densely populated state is packed with cars and trucks driven people who don’t always follow traffic laws. Most people who live in the region get used to the challenges that face drivers, but there some areas that are particularly dangerous. One spot known for a high rate of accidents is the Pulaski Skyway, opened in 1932 to connect Newark and Jersey City along Routes 1 and 9.
Late on a December Friday night, a tragic accident occurred on the Newark side of the skyway, resulting in the deaths of six individuals. The vehicle was traveling toward the Route 1 and 9 southbound on-ramp when it veered off the road, became airborne, and struck a support column. Upon impact, the vehicle burst into flames, killing all occupants.
Despite expensive rehabilitation efforts, including deck replacements and structural improvements, there are several reasons why the Pulaski Skyway creates problems even for experienced Jersey drivers, such as:
- Tight spaces with no breakdown lane — When originally constructed, space was conserved by having just one breakdown lane in the center of the road, so it could be accessible to cars traveling in both directions. Now, a median has been built there, so no breakdown lane or shoulder exists.
- Poor lighting — Drivers frequently complain about the poor lighting on the skyway, possibly due to its age and structure.
- Steep ramps — Some New Jersey residents have likened the Pulaski Skyway to a roller coaster because the ramps going on and off are quite steep. This can affect a driver’s visibility and make it difficult to brake safely.
- Drag racing — For decades, approaches to the skyway, and sometimes even the skyway itself, have been utilized for late-night drag racing, creating a serious hazard for everyone on the road.
The Pulaski Skyway is just one of the North Jersey locations notorious for a high incidence of auto accidents. Of course, dangerous vehicle crashes can occur anywhere, even on the street where you live. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash, call the attorneys at Seigel Law in Ridgewood. We fight to maximize compensation for New Jersey plaintiffs in personal injury and wrongful death claims. You can set up a free consultation by calling 201-444-4000 or contacting us online.