Navigating intersections in Tom’s River and Northern Ocean County can feel like a challenge, with heavy traffic, unexpected stops, and tricky turns making every drive an adventure. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, these challenges can become even more daunting, as confusing layouts and sudden lane shifts make it harder to react quickly.
Some roads have higher crash rates due to traffic volume, poor visibility, or complex designs. Knowing which intersections are the most dangerous can help you stay alert and reduce your chances of an accident.
Route 37 and Hooper Avenue
The intersection of Route 37 and Hooper Avenue in Tom’s River is one of the busiest in the area. Heavy congestion, multiple lanes, and frequent lane changes contribute to crashes. Drivers making left turns often face difficulty due to fast-moving traffic. Staying cautious and anticipating sudden stops can help avoid collisions here.
Route 9 and Route 70
The junction of Route 9 and Route 70 in Lakewood is another high-risk area. Both roads carry significant traffic, and the mix of local and through drivers creates confusion. Sudden lane shifts and merging vehicles add to the danger. A bit of defensive driving goes a long way when approaching this intersection.
Hooper Avenue and Bay Avenue
Located near Ocean County Mall, Hooper Avenue and Bay Avenue see heavy traffic daily. Pedestrians, shopping center entrances, and multiple traffic signals create frequent slowdowns and sudden stops. Paying attention to signal changes and crosswalks can help you navigate this area safely.
Route 88 and Jack Martin Boulevard
In Brick Township, Route 88 and Jack Martin Boulevard is a trouble spot for drivers. Limited visibility and complex turn lanes lead to frequent side-impact crashes. Yielding appropriately and checking blind spots can reduce the risk of an accident here.
Avoiding intersection accidents
Staying alert and following traffic laws can make a difference. Reduce distractions, obey speed limits, and watch for sudden stops. If an intersection feels unsafe, approach it cautiously and be prepared for unexpected movements from other drivers. Understanding these high-risk areas can help you make safer driving choices in Tom’s River and other areas of Ocean County.