NJDOT Champions Safety for Crash Responders, Urges Public Compliance

During National Crash Responder Safety Week, New Jersey's Move Over Law Highlighted to Protect Emergency Personnel

In observance of National Crash Responder Safety Week from November 13 to 17, NJDOT Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti emphasizes the critical need for motorists to adhere to the "Move Over" law. This initiative gains importance in light of 34 national fatalities among responders this year, underscoring the risks faced by emergency personnel operating near traffic.

NJDOT's call for heightened awareness and compliance aligns with Governor Murphy's proclamation that officially recognizes this week as National Crash Responder Safety Week in New Jersey. The campaign aims to educate and remind motorists of their vital role in ensuring the safety of first responders at crash sites.

Under the New Jersey Move Over Law (Statute 39:4-92.2), drivers are mandated to slow down and, if possible, shift at least one lane away from emergency personnel and workers present on roadways. Failure to do so not only endangers the lives of first responders but also violates state law, potentially leading to serious legal consequences.

New Jersey sets a national example in Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Responder Training, coordinated by NJDOT. This program, which has trained over 24,000 first responders in the state, recently became accessible online at www.NJTIM.org, broadening its reach. The training emphasizes efficient, safe incident management strategies that protect motorists and emergency personnel while minimizing traffic disruptions.

For additional information on New Jersey's TIM program or to access the free online training for responders, visit NJTIM.org. For up-to-date traffic information, NJDOT recommends checking their traffic information website.