Newark Police try educating drivers without issuing tickets

A local police department is doing more than just ticketing drivers to help them become more attentive on the highways.

On Wednesday, the Newark Police Department announced its 2016 Collision Reduction Initiative. The effort comes after a record high number of collisions within city limits. Officials said some of the leading causes of the collisions were driver inattention and failure to yield the right of way while making a turn.

“The goal of the program is to reduce collisions not write tickets,” said Chief of Police Paul Tiernan. “We will combine education of drivers with strict enforcement. The evaluation of the program will be based on the total collision numbers at the end of 2016.”

Newark Police investigated 910 property damage and 222 personal injury collisions in 2015. Police say 42% of those vehicle collisions occurred on roads such as South College Ave., Cleveland Ave., Elkton Rd., Delaware Ave., East Main St., and Library Ave.

“Our police officers are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all who live, work and visit the City of Newark, as evidenced by a 48% reduction in crime since 2006,” said City Manager Carol Houck. “This initiative will build on their efforts and raise awareness among drivers regarding the need to remain attentive while behind the wheel.”

The initiative will go into effect this month focusing on the highest collision locations as well as the violations that lead to the collisions.

Police are looking to gain the attention of motorists also on social media to raise awareness. You can follow the progress of the program to check out some of the enforcement locations which will be posted regularly on Facebook and Twitter. Look for the hashtag #JustDriveNewark for the latest updates.