Summit PD To Increase Traffic, Pedestrian Patrols: Here’s Where

SUMMIT, NJ - Citing pedestrian safety and distracted driving concerns, Summit police is slated to ramp up patrols concerning traffic and pedestrians in the city.

Starting Thursday, Feb. 23, the Summit Police Department Patrol Bureau and Traffic Bureau will increase the enforcement of motor vehicle and pedestrian violations in the Central Retail Business District and adjacent downtown areas, the department said in a statement.

Warnings and summonses will be issued to motorists and pedestrians “whose actions put pedestrians at risk,” the department said, including failure to stop for pedestrians and jaywalking.

“Pedestrians must wait for a suitable gap in the traffic flow before crossing a road or entering a crosswalk, ensuring that it is safe to do so,” the police department added.

Drivers who park vehicles illegally will also be subject to ticketing, police said.

“Illegal parking disrupts traffic flow and impedes line-of-sight for both motorists and pedestrians, creating safety issues,” police said.

Summit police's safety tips for pedestrians and motorists can be found here.

In New Jersey, drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians or pass vehicles that are stopped for pedestrians are subject to two points and a $231 fine, police said. Enhanced penalties may also include up to 15 days of community service and insurance surcharges.

“Pedestrians are required to obey traffic signals, use crosswalks, and follow pedestrian signals at intersections,” the department added. “At an unsignalized intersection, they must wait for a suitable gap in traffic flow before crossing a road or entering a crosswalk. Pedestrians do not have the right-of-way unless it is safe to enter a crosswalk. Failure to observe pedestrian laws in the State of New Jersey carries a $54 fine.”