Full Notification

The holidays can be an exciting time for family and friends to get together. However, holiday events can turn tragic when people are killed or injured in traffic accidents on their way to visit family and friends. The Newark Police Department would like motorists to take steps to make their holiday travel safer. And most importantly if you drink don't drive! Drivers can protect themselves, their passengers, and other drivers by reviewing and following these safety tips.

Free Vacation Home Check

Going away for the holidays? Request a free vacation home check. Fill out a request form at:
http://www.newark.org/departments/police/community-engagement/vacation-house-emergency-information/

Before You Start Your Trip

Make sure your vehicle is tuned up and in good shape for travel. Restrain yourself and your passengers properly. Wear seat belts and use car safety seats. Remember the back seat is the safest place for children to ride. Be flexible in setting your travel plans. Avoid peak traffic hours by leaving early or waiting until after the morning commute. If snow is predicted where you plan to travel, change your schedule. It’s better to arrive later than risk the lives of you and your passengers. Stay alert when driving. Take plenty of breaks and don’t rush to meet an unrealistic schedule. If you get tired, pull off the road into a rest area or business. Get out of the car and get some fresh air, buy something to refresh yourself, or just relax. Keep your speed down. Give yourself plenty of time and distance between cars to react to traffic around you. Let impatient or aggressive drivers pass you. Driving requires your full attention. Pull off the road if you have to use your phone.

Stay Safe when Stranded on the Roadside

Automobile travel remains the dominant mode of transportation for Thanksgiving travel. Last year 90% of all travelers drove to their destination. Therefore, it is critical to have an action plan if you become stranded on the side of a freeway or in oncoming traffic as a result of a car breakdown. Since very situation is unique, it is difficult to advise people on what to do. However, AAA recommends stranded motorists call law enforcement if they feel unsafe and are concerned other motorists can’t see them.

When Something Goes Wrong With your Car...
• Pull off to the right side of the road.
• Try to pull over onto the shoulder where you are NOT in danger of getting struck by traffic.
• Turn on your hazard lights.
• Make certain your vehicle is visible to other drivers by turning on your vehicle’s emergency flashers.
• If your hazard lights do not work and your vehicle is not visible to other drivers, exit the vehicle opposite the side of oncoming traffic.
• Wait as far away from your car and traffic as possible.
• Call the police for assistance. If you are concerned for your safety and need assistance with traffic control, call local law enforcement for help.

Did you know?

The 35 days between Thanksgiving and New Year is the busiest long distance travel period of the year. More drivers travel 50 miles or more from their hometown than any other time.