As we prepare to say goodbye to 2023 and usher in 2024, the New Jersey State Police would like to remind motorists that celebrations start and end with responsible decisions. To ensure this holiday isn’t marred by preventable tragedies, plan ahead for the New Year celebration.
During the holiday period last year, there were five fatal crashes in New Jersey. Four of those five fatal crashes were alcohol and/or drug related. We are asking everyone to help bring that fatal number down to zero for the New Year. If you plan on drinking alcohol during the holiday, don’t make a bad decision by getting behind the wheel. Tragedies can be avoided by calling a taxi, using transportation applications such as Uber and Lyft, having a designated driver, or making plans to stay where you are.
In addition to regularly scheduled patrols, the New Jersey State Police will have more than 55 troopers on traffic duty statewide for the holiday. Troopers will focus on violations such as speeding, aggressive driving, improper cell phone use, seatbelt usage, fatigued driving, and DWI.
“Our increased presence on the roadways serves to promote a safe driving environment for all in an effort to reduce crashes and crash-related fatalities,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.” Safety is and will always be our number one priority and we want everyone to join in on that effort by enjoying the holiday responsibly. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish you all a very safe and Happy New Year.”
The New Year holiday period began at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, and ends at 5:59 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2.