2024 News Release

Keep the Roads Safe This Holiday: Drive Sober

West Trenton, N.J –Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest travel times of the year, with millions taking to the roadways. Our priority is ensuring everyone traveling through New Jersey arrives at their destinations safely. Drive responsibly and make safety your top priority this holiday season. We encourage you to follow a few safety tips to prepare for the unexpected emergencies associated with holiday traffic. Before you head out, please consider the following:

• Fill up your gas tank
• Check fluids (including windshield washer fluid and antifreeze)
• Check tire pressure
• Bring a mobile phone charger
• Carry a flashlight with new batteries
• Bring bottles of water and nonperishable snacks
• Don’t drive drowsy. Symptoms of driving tired are similar to those of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Use service areas to rest, stretch your legs, or grab a cup a coffee
• Let someone know your travel plans
• Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly
• Plan to leave yourself more time to get where you are going

The most important step you can take to ensure your safety—and the safety of other motorists and pedestrians—this holiday season is simple: never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. During the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period, there were 11 fatal crashes on New Jersey roadways, resulting in 11 tragic deaths. Alarmingly, drugs and alcohol impairment contributed to eight of these crashes. These heartbreaking incidents are entirely preventable. Plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or arranging to stay with friends or family. Let’s work together to make this holiday season safe for everyone.

The New Jersey State Police will have more than 144 additional troopers statewide during the holiday period in addition to normal patrols. Troopers will focus their efforts on speeding, aggressive driving, seatbelt usage, distracted driving, and DWI.

“As we enter the holiday season, we urge everyone to remember that safe driving is not just a personal choice—it’s a responsibility that affects us all,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Whether you’re traveling to reunite with loved ones or celebrating with friends, choose to stay alert, drive sober, and respect the rules of the road. Every life saved begins with a decision to prioritize safety. Together, we can ensure this season remains a time of joy and celebration, free from preventable tragedies. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving.”

The 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period begins on Wednesday, November 27, at 6:00 p.m. and ends on Monday, December 2, at 6:00 a.m.

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