The length of I-95 will be focused on in something the International Association of Chiefs of Police are calling the "I-95 Challenge - Drive to Save Lives." Is this just another way to say they're doing a ticket blitz?

Flickr user MPD01605
Flickr user MPD01605
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After all, "safety drive" has a much nicer ring to it than "ticket blitz." Here's the deal.

Starting tomorrow Tuesday March 24 and running for 6 days, State Police and highway patrols will target large trucks and buses but will also be stopping motorists in all vehicles who are speeding, driving aggressively, using cell phones while driving and ignoring seat belt requirements.

“We are always exploring new ways to combat crash-related fatalities and injuries,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police in a statement.  “In addition to increased boots on the ground, we plan on using social media messaging to educate and ultimately deter unsafe driving practices, not only along I-95, but statewide.

Let's call a spade a spade here. As much as I'd like to believe this is a true "safety campaign," this is a good 'ol fashioned ticket blitz with a shiny new name. The police should ALWAYS be "exploring new ways to combat crash-related fatalities and injuries." That doesn't mean the amount of tickets issued need to go up.

Call it what you want, but just know it's happening on the entire length of the Turnpike March 24-30, August 4-9 and December 29-31. And as always, drive safely!

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