2023 News Release

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

Additional Patrols for Holiday Weekend

West Trenton, N.J. - Thanksgiving weekend is consistently one of the busiest travel periods of the year with millions hitting the road. We want everyone traveling New Jersey’s roadways this holiday to get to their destinations safely. We encourage you to prepare for the unexpected emergencies associated with holiday traffic by following a few safety tips. 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 easiest tip to follow to ensure not only your safety, but the safety of fellow motorists and pedestrians this holiday is to not get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. During the 2022 Thanksgiving holiday period, there were eight fatal crashes that resulted in nine deaths on New Jersey roadways. Drugs and/or alcohol impairment was found to be a contributing factor in five of the crashes. These types of tragedies can be easily avoided by having a designated driver, using a taxi or transportation service such as Uber or Lyft, or making plans to stay with friends or family.

The New Jersey State Police will have more than 100 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.

“Safety starts with sober driving, so we ask that you do your part by making responsible choices this holiday. Our goal is zero crash fatalities—not just on holidays, but every day,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday with their family and friends and prevent these avoidable tragedies. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.”

The 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period begins on Wednesday, November 22, at 6:00 p.m. and ends on Monday, November 27, at 6:00 a.m.

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