2024 News Release

Increased Patrols as Summer Kicks Off

West Trenton, N.J. – As we welcome the start of the summer season, it's a time for outdoor activities, family gatherings, and enjoying the beautiful weather. With more people out and about, let's all commit to making safety a priority. Whether you're traveling New Jersey’s roadways or waterways, we urge you to be responsible.

During the Memorial Day holiday weekend last year, there were eleven crashes that resulted in eleven fatalities. In three of the crashes, alcohol and/or drugs was a factor. These types of tragedies can easily be avoided by calling a taxi, using transportation applications such as Uber or Lyft, making plans to stay with friends or family, or having a designated driver.

The New Jersey State Police plans to increase traffic enforcement details across the state from Friday, May 24 to Tuesday, May 28. During this period, in addition to our regularly scheduled patrols, 141 troopers will be on traffic details targeting aggressive driving, speeding, seatbelt usage, commercial vehicle enforcement, cell phone usage, distracted driving, and DWI. Remember, driving drowsy can mimic the symptoms of driving under the influence, including impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and difficulty maintaining lane position. Just like driving under the influence, drowsy driving is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. If you feel sleepy while driving, please pull into a service area and rest to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Motorists are also reminded of the Move Over Law, which requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or other roadside assistance vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights. The purpose of this law is to provide a safe space for first responders and other workers to perform their duties without the risk of being hit by passing traffic. If changing lanes is not possible or unsafe, drivers must reduce their speed below the posted speed limit and proceed with caution. Help us keep you safe by helping emergency personnel stay safe.

Additionally, the New Jersey State Police Marine Bureau will be patrolling the state’s waterways this weekend and throughout the summer looking for signs of boaters under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to stop reckless operation of boats and personal watercrafts.

Marine troopers will also be checking to see that boat operators have obtained the proper licenses to operate watercrafts. For up-to-date requirements and additional boating safety tips you can visit the State Police website at https://www.njsp.org/marine-services/index.shtml.

“As we enter this holiday weekend, I urge everyone to do so responsibly. We anticipate increased traffic on our roads and waters as the unofficial start to summer begins," said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. "Please do your part by making safe choices to ensure a holiday is not marred by avoidable tragedies. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish everyone a safe Memorial Day weekend as we take the time to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage and dedication. Their sacrifices safeguard our freedoms each and every day.”

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