The state of New Jersey has seen an alarming trend in fatal motorcycle accidents this year. In 2018, there was a statewide decrease over the previous year, 53 compared to 84, respectively. Now, however, with only three months left in 2019, the number of motorcycle fatalities so far this year, 44, has nearly equaled that of 2018.
Within the past month, South Jersey alone has seen four fatal motorcycle crashes, which are not part of the published statistics for this year. The most recent of these occurred very early on a Monday morning in the second week of September. A motorcyclist died at the scene when he allegedly ran into a moving minivan from behind. He was 33 years old.
On White Horse Pike in Stratford, where the accident took place, a 40 mph speed limit applies. Authorities believe that the motorcyclist’s speed played a part in the crash, but the accident remains under investigation. The initial investigation by law enforcement required closing the area to traffic for three hours following the collision. While the roadway eventually reopened, reconstruction of the accident will require authorities to shut it down again.
The driver of the minivan is a woman from Stratford. She remained at the scene when authorities arrived. It is not known whether she sustained any injuries as a result of the crash.
Two of the three other fatal motorcycle crashes that have occurred in South Jersey this month involved collisions with other vehicles. The third occurred when the motorcyclist ran off the road. People who have questions about legal options following a motorcycle accident may find it helpful to consult an attorney.