2017 News Release

Don’t let a Bad Decision Wreck Your Holiday Weekend During Summer’s Last Stand

West Trenton, N.J. - Labor Day is the unofficial end to the summer season, which means it will be a busy weekend as travelers look to enjoy the holiday. There is no shortage of activities for everyone to enjoy this weekend, so holiday motorists are reminded to make responsible decisions in order to avoid tragedies.

If you plan on drinking alcohol this weekend, don’t make a bad decision by getting behind the wheel. Tragedies can be avoided by calling a taxi, using transportation applications such as Uber and Lyft, or making plans to stay where you are.

Another important factor contributing to accidents is fatigue.  Many travelers end up driving while exhausted because they try to soak in every last minute of the holiday weekend.  To help eliminate fatigue, make frequent stops and get out of the driver’s seat and move around to get your blood flowing.  People who drive while fatigued can exhibit many of the same driving behaviors as those who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

In addition to regularly scheduled patrols, the New Jersey State Police will have more than 195 additional troopers on patrol statewide. Troopers will focus on violations such as speeding, aggressive driving, improper cell phone use, fatigued driving, and DWI.

The State Police Marine Bureau will also be patrolling the state’s waterways this weekend, and troopers will be looking for signs of boaters under the influence of alcohol or drugs and reckless operation of boats and personal watercraft.

“Safety is our number one priority and patrols will be on the lookout for any motorists or boaters that may create a hazard for others this weekend,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “On land or on the water, we want everyone to enjoy the holiday with friends and family responsibly.”

The 2017 Labor Day Holiday officially begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 1 and continues through 6:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 5.  During the holiday period last year, there were three fatal crashes resulting in three fatalities.

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