Motor vehicle crashes claim the lives of more than 500 New Jersey residents each year. In an effort to reduce the number of fatalities, a country-wide safety initiative, “Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day,” takes place each year on October 10. This Friday, all drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists are encouraged to be exceptionally careful so that for at least one day, there will be no fatalities on New Jersey’s roads.

The Princeton Police Department is asking Princeton residents to join the day-long effort and is encouraging motorists to obey all traffic laws, including buckling up, every ride; driving the posted speed limit; avoiding distractions while driving; and always being safe and sober behind the wheel.

The Department will be conducting increased selective enforcement details focusing on speeding, seatbelt and illegal cell phone use violations throughout the course of the day.

In 2013, 542 individuals lost their lives in motor vehicle-related crashes in New Jersey, a decrease from the previous year’s number of 589. The decline continues a downward trend in motor vehicle fatalities. The 2013 number of motor vehicle related deaths was the lowest in the State since the 1940s.

“Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day not only raises awareness about the individual responsibility we have for our driving behaviors, but also engages drivers in making positive changes behind the wheel every day of the year,” said Sgt. Thomas Murray of the Princeton Police Department, who will answer any questions or concerns at (609) 921-2100 ext. 1879 or via email to tmurray@princetonnj.gov.

For more information, visit: www.brakesonfatalities.org.