The South Brunswick Police Department has compiled data of all the fatal crashes in the township this year.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK -- The township had the highest number of fatal crashes in 2016 in the past five years.
There were five deaths this year, and the South Brunswick Police Department's Traffic and Safety Bureau found that the most common factor was drivers disregarding traffic signals.
According to the police department, "the total number of crashes on township roadways remains consistent for the past several years at nearly 2,500."
"Motorists need to avoid distractions while driving, and stop at red traffic signals," said Traffic Sgt. Gary Holsten.
The following is a timeline of all the fatal crashes in the township this year:
- Jan. 1 -- A 13-year-old girl died in a two-vehicle crash on Route 1 and Deans Lane
- April 16 -- A 26-year-old man died in a single-vehicle crash on Route 535
- June 16 -- A 65-year-old woman died after being struck by a vehicle on Route 1 and Deans Lane
- Sept. 27 -- A 96-year-old man died in a two-vehicle crash on Route 535 near Route 32
- Nov. 8 -- A 29-year-old man died in a crash involving an SUV and a truck on Route 1 near Raymond Road
Police Chief Raymond Hayducka said that local roadways have continued to become more congested.
"It is critical that drivers pay attention while driving," Hayducka said in a statement.
Hayducka outlined a plan to improve safety on township roads through awareness, education and enforcement with police sharing data about crashes.
Hayducka said police officers are providing education in schools and through the police department's community notification system.
"Working together we can all improve the safety of our roadways," he said.
Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.