New Jersey Auto AccidentThe morning of February 20, 2014 was treacherous for New Jersey motorists. According to a news report in the Asbury Park Press, there were 124 car accidents in New Jersey that morning in addition to 140 distress calls from motorists. Officials say that many of the accidents and distress calls were related to the icy conditions. There were accidents along the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, and Interstates, 78, 80, 195, 287, and 295. None of the reported accidents resulted in serious injuries.

Officials say that black ice made highway on- and off-ramps particularly dangerous. Black ice is a layer of ice that is so thin that drivers can hardly detect it. New Jersey drivers should expect more black ice this season as the temperatures continue to warm up and then cool down causing the snow and ice to melt briefly only to refreeze.

Since it is difficult to see black ice, staying focused on the roadway will not necessarily keep you safe. Drivers are advised to slow down well below the speed limit in these conditions. Remember, the posted speed limit is the safe speed for ideal conditions. Black ice is not ideal and accidents will happen if you travel at your regular rate of speed.

If you do start to slide on the ice, do not jerk your wheel or slam on your brakes. Instead, carefully steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go in while pressing on your brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes, hold your foot on the brakes until you slow down. If you have an older vehicle without anti-lock brakes, pump the brakes while steering in the direction in which you want to go.

All New Jersey motorists should be mindful of these hazardous weather conditions. Sometimes, staying off the road is the best way to prevent an accident. If you are hurt, make sure you notify the authorities, seek out immediate medical care, and research all of your legal options. Contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer who will fight for your rights and ensure that you are fairly compensated for all your losses.

The firm’s principals, Gabriel R. Lependorf and David E. Silverstein, have each been representing injured victims in the State of New Jersey for over thirty years.

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