In a recent announcement, city officials from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Police Department have kicked off the annual “Dusk and Darkness” enforcement campaign. This initiative will boost traffic enforcement during nighttime and early morning hours, targeting hazardous violations that pose risks to public safety.
As daylight saving time comes to an end on November 3rd, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez and Traffic Chief Philip Rivera revealed that this program, which began in 2016 and is now in its ninth year, aims to reduce traffic fatalities through enhanced enforcement and educational outreach. Notably, the autumn and winter months tend to see a sharp decrease in daylight during sunset, often leading to an increase in deadly traffic accidents. Recent statistics indicate that since the implementation of this program, nighttime fatalities have decreased by an average of 13.5%, pedestrian deaths have dropped by 21.7%, and fatalities among vehicle occupants have decreased by 25.8%.
Beginning at the end of October, the NYPD will intensify enforcement efforts, focusing on dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, failing to yield to pedestrians, and distracted driving. The initiative will also address violations like double parking and blocking crosswalks, bike lanes, and bus routes.
With the end of daylight saving time approaching, the city will leverage social media to alert drivers about reduced visibility and urge them to adhere to the 25 mph speed limit while yielding to pedestrians and cyclists.
Chief Rivera emphasized, “As daylight saving time ends, we urge all residents, whether they are driving, biking, or crossing the street, to remain vigilant and consider the safety of others. Our officers and DOT enforcement personnel have a primary mission: to ensure that everyone remains safe on our streets and highways.”
Commissioner Rodriguez remarked, “As the sun sets earlier in the fall, pedestrian risks increase. This enforcement effort serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down and stay alert as daylight saving time concludes. With the NYPD stepping up efforts against distracted driving, DOT’s automated cameras will prompt drivers to slow down and stop at red lights. It’s crucial for drivers to take responsibility for their actions.”
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