NEW JERSEY — Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and the beginning of the busy travel season. Safety must be a priority on every journey as roadways fill with drivers heading to the shore, local parks, lakes, and family gatherings. No matter how short the trip, every drive carries risks—and your choices behind the wheel can make all the difference. We urge all motorists to stay alert, avoid distractions, obey speed limits, and never drive under the influence. Buckle up, be patient, and remain mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
During the Memorial Day holiday weekend last year, there were six crashes that resulted in fatalities. In five of the crashes, alcohol and/or drugs were 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 23 to Tuesday, May 27. During this period, in addition to our regularly scheduled patrols, 170 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 by clicking here.
“As we head into Memorial Day weekend, I urge everyone to make smart decisions and prioritize safety,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “With increased traffic on our roads and waterways, the risk of crashes also increases. Your choices matter—don’t let one moment of carelessness turn into a preventable tragedy. Protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road by putting safety first. Let’s come together to make this Memorial Day weekend safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish you a safe and meaningful Memorial Day as we remember and honor the heroes who gave their last full measure of devotion in service to our nation.”
