NEW JERSEY – Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with millions of motorists taking to the roads.
The priority of the New Jersey State Police is to ensure that everyone traveling through the state arrives at their destinations safely. This holiday season, state police urge drivers to make safety a top priority and drive responsibly. They encourage everyone to follow a few key safety tips to prepare for unexpected emergencies associated with holiday traffic.
Before you head out, consider the following:
- Fill up your gas tank
- Check fluid levels, including windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
- Check tire pressure
- Bring a mobile phone charger
- Carry a flashlight with new batteries
- Pack bottles of water and nonperishable snacks
- Don’t drive drowsy. Symptoms of tired driving 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 of coffee
- Let someone know your travel plans
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly
- Allow extra time for your trip
The most important step you can take to ensure your safety—and the safety of other motorists and pedestrians—this holiday season is simple: never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. During the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period, there were 11 fatal crashes on New Jersey roadways, resulting in 11 tragic deaths.
Alarmingly, alcohol and drug impairment contributed to eight of these crashes. These heartbreaking incidents are entirely preventable. Plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or arranging to stay with friends or family. Let’s work together to make this holiday season safe for everyone.
To bolster safety efforts, the New Jersey State Police will deploy over 144 additional troopers statewide during the holiday period, in addition to regular patrols. Troopers will focus on addressing speeding, aggressive driving, seatbelt usage, distracted driving, and driving under the influence (DWI).
“As we enter the holiday season, we urge everyone to remember that safe driving is not just a personal choice—it’s a responsibility that affects us all,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Whether you’re traveling to reunite with loved ones or celebrating with friends, stay alert, drive sober, and respect the rules of the road. Every life saved starts with a decision to prioritize safety. Together, we can ensure this season remains a time of joy and celebration, free from preventable tragedies. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving.”
The 2024 Thanksgiving holiday period begins on Wednesday, November 27, at 6:00 p.m. and ends on Monday, December 2, at 6:00 a.m.
