Credit: Tom Sofield
Pennsylvania and New Jersey state police are teaming up with local law enforcement for a coordinated, multi-state aggressive driving enforcement campaign aimed at reducing highway fatalities.
The enforcement drive, which is currently underway and runs through April 26, involves a collaboration between the Pennsylvania State Police, local departments, the Highway Safety Network, and the New Jersey State Police.
A focal point of the multi-state effort includes a coordinated one-day enforcement event scheduled for April 14.
“No matter where you drive, if you drive aggressively, you will be stopped by police,” Pennsylvania officials said in a statement.
The crackdown focuses on speeding, distracted driving, and work zone awareness.
In New Jersey, the “Goal Zero” campaign is tasked with the effort.
Troopers in the Garden State are using radar and laser technology to enforce speeding laws and the state’s Move Over law, while also watching for distracted drivers.
“The goal of this targeted enforcement is to decrease crashes caused by aggressive and distracted driving,” said Michael J. Rizol, Jr., director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.
Troopers in Pennsylvania warned they are also citing motorists for tailgating, careless lane changes, and driving too fast for conditions.
The enforcement comes as preliminary 2025 data shows a rise in aggressive-driving fatalities, even as overall traffic deaths decreased in Pennsylvania.
In 2024, the state recorded 5,897 aggressive-driving crashes, resulting in 106 deaths and 405 suspected serious injuries.
“The PSP is committed to protecting roadways across Pennsylvania by cracking down on aggressive drivers and holding violators accountable,” said Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lt. Col. George Bivens. “Reckless behavior behind the wheel has proven time and again to have deadly consequences.”
Troopers in Pennsylvania investigated approximately 77,000 crashes in 2025, including 485 fatal wrecks and 8,166 incidents involving distracted driving.
Throughout the mobilization, Pennsylvania State Police and approximately 300 municipal agencies will use saturation patrols, speed enforcement details, and traffic zones on roadways known for high crash volumes.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said aggressive driving crashes are “completely preventable” and advised motorists to be safe on the roads.
“Slow down, pay attention, follow all traffic signs, and just be kind!” Carroll said. “If we all stay calm and courteous while driving, we can create a safer and more respectful driving culture.”
Under Pennsylvania’s criteria, aggressive driving involves at least two unsafe behaviors, such as running red lights, illegal U-turns, or fleeing police.
Officials noted that while often confused with road rage—a criminal offense involving assault—aggressive driving is a separate set of traffic violations that can escalate into violence.
PennDOT invests roughly $23 million in federal grant funds annually to support these high-visibility enforcement efforts, a move backed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Safety officials advise motorists who encounter aggressive drivers to stay relaxed, avoid eye contact, and refrain from challenging the other driver.
If reporting a vehicle to police, drivers are urged to pull over to a safe location before using a cell phone.
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