A new national study has ranked New Jersey as the safest state for drivers in the country, citing low crash rates, fewer traffic fatalities, and the nation’s lowest percentage of alcohol-related fatal crashes.

The analysis, conducted by The Schiller Kessler Group using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System and 2024 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, gave New Jersey the top overall score after comparing all 50 states across four roadway safety categories.

Rather than leading in just one area, New Jersey posted consistently strong results, ranking sixth in fatal crash rate, fifth in traffic deaths per 100,000 residents, 11th in speeding-related fatalities, and second in alcohol-related fatal crashes. The state also recorded the nation’s lowest share of fatal crashes involving impaired drivers, with alcohol contributing to 21.8% of fatal crashes compared to the national average of 29.8%.

Researchers credited the state’s roadway design, traffic enforcement efforts, and transportation infrastructure for its strong performance.

The Northeast dominated the rankings, with New York placing fourth, followed by Rhode Island, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania in the top 10. Massachusetts recorded the nation’s lowest traffic fatality rate per capita.

Despite New Jersey’s top ranking, researchers cautioned that the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day—often referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days” for drivers—typically sees an increase in fatal crashes due to heavier travel, teen drivers, speeding, and impaired driving. Fatal crashes historically peak during August, September, and October.

The study analyzed more than 36,000 fatal crashes and over 39,000 traffic deaths nationwide, highlighting New Jersey’s continued strong performance in roadway safety despite handling some of the country’s busiest traffic volumes.