NEW JERSEY — Law enforcement agencies across New Jersey will participate in a statewide traffic enforcement initiative Saturday aimed at increasing compliance with the state’s Move Over Law while honoring the memory of New Jersey State Police Trooper Marc K. Castellano.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police announced the Goal Zero enforcement initiative will take place June 6, the anniversary of Castellano’s death in the line of duty on Interstate 195 in Howell.
The all-day operation will focus on enforcing New Jersey’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to slow down and move over when approaching emergency responders, tow truck operators, highway workers and others working along roadways.
Police departments throughout the state are expected to conduct high-visibility enforcement efforts targeting drivers who fail to comply with the law.
“At age 29, Trooper Marc Castellano made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of New Jersey. This initiative honors his memory by making it clear that the Move Over Law will be fully enforced,” said Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano, president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police. “Goal Zero is about preventing tragedies before they happen. Drivers who fail to slow down or move over place lives at risk, and police will be out across the state to address that dangerous behavior.”
The initiative is part of the broader Goal Zero campaign, which seeks to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries through enforcement, education and public awareness.
Officials said participating agencies will focus on violations that endanger emergency personnel, roadside workers and motorists stopped along highways and local roads.
“Every traffic stop, crash investigation, disabled vehicle, and roadway incident places people just feet from moving traffic. Trooper Castellano’s death reminds us that these dangers are real and ever-present,” said Michael J. Rizol Jr., director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Public awareness is important, and we all need to work together to promote this message. This initiative is about accountability and saving lives.”
Castellano was killed while performing his duties on Interstate 195 in Howell. Law enforcement officials said the annual initiative serves as both a tribute to his service and a reminder of the dangers faced by first responders and roadside workers.
“Trooper Marc Castellano exemplified the courage, professionalism, and dedication that define the New Jersey State Police. While we remember his sacrifice, we also renew our commitment to protecting those who serve on the roadside every day,” added Jeanne Hengemuhle, superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Motorists should understand that the Move Over Law is not optional. Troopers and officers will be enforcing it because compliance can mean the difference between life and death.”
The association is urging motorists to remain alert, avoid distractions, reduce speed and move over whenever they encounter flashing emergency lights or roadside activity.
“Sixteen years after Trooper Castellano’s death, the message remains unchanged: when you see flashing lights ahead, slow down and move over,” Chief Caggiano said. “On June 6, law enforcement will be visible, proactive, and focused on preventing another avoidable tragedy.”
