TRENTON, N.J. (May 23, 2025) — As millions of New Jersey residents and visitors hit the roads for the Memorial Day weekend, the New Jersey State Police has launched an expanded enforcement effort aimed at reducing traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the high-travel holiday.
From Friday, May 23 through Tuesday, May 27, an additional 170 state troopers will be assigned to dedicated traffic safety patrols across highways and major roadways. These patrols will operate alongside regular police activity but will specifically target the most common and dangerous behaviors that contribute to roadway incidents.
Troopers will focus on:
- Aggressive driving and road rage
- Speeding
- Distracted driving, including illegal use of handheld devices
- Failure to wear seatbelts
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Commercial vehicle safety violations
“Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and every year we see a significant increase in vehicle traffic, especially around the Shore and other vacation destinations,” said a New Jersey State Police spokesperson. “Our goal is not only enforcement but education—reminding drivers that safe behavior behind the wheel can literally save lives.”
According to traffic data from previous years, Memorial Day weekend consistently ranks among the most dangerous for motorists, with a spike in crashes, injuries, and alcohol-related incidents. In response, the State Police is working in partnership with local departments, the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), and other agencies as part of a broader summer-long safety campaign.
DWI Enforcement to Be Stepped Up Statewide
As part of the weekend initiative, DWI checkpoints and roving patrols will be set up in areas with historically high incidents of impaired driving. Troopers will also be monitoring rest stops and travel hubs for signs of impaired or aggressive driving behaviors.
“We are reminding everyone: if you plan to drink, plan for a sober ride,” the spokesperson added. “Don’t turn a celebration into a tragedy.”
Tips for a Safe Memorial Day Weekend on the Road
- Buckle up—seatbelts save lives.
- Obey speed limits and posted traffic signs.
- Avoid all distractions behind the wheel, including texting or scrolling.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Be patient—holiday traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Drivers are also reminded that using handheld cell phones while driving remains illegal in New Jersey, and violations can result in fines of up to $400 for a first offense.
Statewide Effort to Protect Lives
This enforcement operation is part of a larger statewide push to make roadways safer throughout the busy summer travel season. Officials hope that through increased visibility, public awareness, and tough enforcement, they can help prevent the types of tragedies that have marked past holiday weekends.
“We want everyone to enjoy their holiday weekend, but we also want everyone to arrive home safely,” the spokesperson said.
