Distracted driving and speeding were among the top causes of fatal crashes in New Jersey in 2020, but that changed the following year. A new State Police report shows that, for the first time in a decade, distracted driving in 2021 was not the leading cause of fatal crashes. Instead, intoxicated driving took the lead.  

There were 697 total driving fatalities in 2021. It’s the highest number of deaths since 2007. And for the first time, the report analyzed and separated those related to alcohol and drug intoxication. The results showed that 91 drivers tested positive for cannabis after a fatal crash in 2021.

“Consuming cannabis and then driving immediately afterward is not safe,” said Pam Fischer, the Governor’s Highway Safety Association senior director of external engagement. “Just like we say with those who consume alcohol, don’t drink and then drive. Make alternate arrangements.”