LAKEWOOD — A new review of federal crash data ranks Lakewood as one of the most dangerous places to drive in the Northeast, citing high rates of alcohol-related and speeding fatalities.
The analysis, released by the ConsumerAffairs Research Team, places Lakewood third-worst among Northeastern cities after examining National Highway Traffic Safety Administration fatal crash data.
Lakewood recorded the highest rate of fatal crashes involving a positive blood alcohol content in the region — 7.12 deaths per 100,000 residents — and an identical rate of speeding-related fatalities. The township reported 12.81 traffic deaths per 100,000 people overall, with 8.54 tied to risky driving behaviors such as speeding, failure to yield and improper lane changes.
Connecticut and New Jersey each had four cities on the top-10 list. Waterbury, Connecticut, ranked worst overall.
Lakewood by the Numbers
Fatalities across all crash types: 12.81 per 100,000
Fatal crashes involving bad driving: 8.54 per 100,000
Fatalities with positive BAC: 7.12 per 100,000
Speeding-related fatalities: 7.12 per 100,000
Safety Reminders
Officials urge drivers to slow down in winter weather, check tire pressure frequently, avoid distractions, drive defensively and always wear seat belts.
The rankings were based on fatality rates, alcohol involvement, DUI crashes and speeding, with each city scored out of 100.
