Hatzolah of Central Jersey is issuing an urgent advisory following a significant rise in the number of pedestrian accidents across its coverage area in recent days and weeks. With the start of the new school year and preparations underway for the upcoming Yomim Tovim, the roads are seeing significantly more traffic—both pedestrian and vehicular. This increased activity is heightening the risk of accidents, particularly during busy and nighttime hours.
“We are witnessing an increase in incidents involving pedestrians being struck, especially in high-traffic areas,” said Hatzolah CEO Meilech Esterzohn. “With more people on the roads, whether heading to school, shopping, or running errands, it’s crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to be extra vigilant.”
The start of the school year means that children and families are out in greater numbers, often during morning and afternoon rush hours, creating more potential for accidents between pedestrians and vehicles. As the Yomim Tovim approach, the influx of people shopping and running errands is leading to more congestion on the streets and sidewalks. In addition, with the days growing shorter, nighttime is arriving earlier, making it more difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians, especially during evening hours when activity levels remain high.
Hatzolah of Central Jersey is calling on drivers to slow down, particularly in residential areas and near schools, and to remain alert at all times, especially during peak pedestrian traffic hours. Drivers should be extra cautious at intersections and crosswalks, yielding to pedestrians as needed. It is also essential for drivers to minimize distractions and remain focused on the road, and as the season changes, turn on headlights earlier to improve visibility in fading daylight.
Pedestrians are equally urged to exercise caution. Crossing streets at designated crosswalks and obeying pedestrian signals is critical to staying safe. Wearing reflective clothing or carrying a light when walking at night is strongly recommended, as it helps drivers see pedestrians more clearly. Pedestrians should also remain aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions while walking. For those walking on roads without sidewalks, it’s safer to walk facing traffic so that oncoming vehicles can be seen in time to react.
While Hatzolah stands ready to respond in times of emergency, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. By taking simple but essential precautions, both drivers and pedestrians can help reduce the number of accidents and make our roads safer for everyone.
