2016 News Release

State Police Aims Low to End Summer on a High

West Trenton, N.J. - The New Jersey State Police would like to end the summer season on a high by having zero fatal crashes this Labor Day Weekend.  During the holiday period last year, there were six fatal crashes resulting in seven fatalities.  So far this year, there have been 395 fatalities statewide, which is 49 more than the same time last year. 

In addition to regularly scheduled patrols, the New Jersey State Police will have more than 160 additional troopers on patrol statewide. Troopers will focus on enforcing violations such as speeding, aggressive driving, improper cell phone use, and DWI.

“The goal of increased visible patrols is to deter drivers from engaging in dangerous behavior, and ultimately to prevent crashes,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Those who threaten others by driving distracted or intoxicated will be held accountable.”

Forecasters are now calling for wet weather through the end of the holiday weekend, and drivers need to be aware that highway speeds will be lower and traction will be reduced. Drivers should stay abreast of changes in the expected storms to avoid traveling in hazardous conditions.

Another important factor contributing to accidents is fatigue.  Many travelers try to squeeze every last minute out of the Labor Day weekend and end up driving while exhausted.  To help eliminate fatigue, make frequent stops and get out of the driver’s seat and move around to get your blood flowing.  During long holiday weekends, fatigue often contributes to crashes.

The 2016 Labor Day Holiday officially begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 2nd and continues through 5:59 a.m., Tuesday, September 6th.

Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Mottley, Deputy Superintendent of Homeland Security states that in addition to increased land-based safety responsibilities, personnel assigned to the State Police Marine Bureau will be patrolling all the waterways.

“Our Troopers on the water will be looking for signs of boaters under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and reckless operation of boats and personal watercraft,” said Lieutenant Colonel Mottley. “Boaters need to carefully monitor weather and water condition forecasts as they venture out this weekend.”

Marine troopers will also be checking to see that boat operators have obtained the proper licenses to operate watercrafts.  A good synopsis of boating requirements can be found on the State Police website at www.njsp.org under boating safety.

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