2025 News Release

State Police Boost Patrols Statewide for July 4th Weekend

West Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey State Police urges everyone to celebrate the holiday weekend safely. Whether you're spending time with family and friends, heading to the shore, or taking the boat out, please remember that traffic will be heavier across the state—and our troopers will be out there too, helping to keep our roads safe.

During the July 4th holiday last year, there were seven fatal crashes that resulted in eight deaths. In three of the crashes, alcohol and/or drugs were a factor. These types of tragedies can often be avoided by calling a taxi, using transportation applications such as Uber and Lyft, making plans to stay with friends or family, or having a designated driver.

The New Jersey State Police will increase traffic enforcement across the state from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, to 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7. During this period, more than 142 additional troopers will be assigned to special details targeting aggressive driving, speeding, seatbelt usage, distracted driving, and DWI, in addition to regularly assigned patrols.

Motorists are reminded to move over when they see emergency vehicles on the side of the road. In accordance with New Jersey’s Move Over Law, drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or other highway safety vehicles displaying flashing lights must move over to leave an empty lane next to those vehicles. If it is not safe to do so, drivers must slow down below the posted speed limit.

The State Police Marine Bureau will also participate in “Operation Dry Water”; a national campaign focused on raising awareness and enforcing laws against boating under the influence during the holiday weekend. The mission of Operation Drywater is to reduce the number of alcohol and drug-related incidents and fatalities on the water. The goal is to promote sound judgment while boating and keep our recreational boating community safe.

For additional information on boating safety and requirements, please visit www.njsp.gov/marine-services/index.shtml.

"The Fourth of July weekend is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence with family, friends, and community—but it’s also a time to make smart, responsible decisions,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Whether you’re driving on our roadways or enjoying time on the water, we urge everyone to stay alert, stay sober, and make safety a priority. On behalf of the New Jersey State Police, I wish everyone a safe, joyful, and meaningful Fourth of July weekend."

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