The city recently announced the launch of its annual “Dusk and Darkness” enforcement initiative, aimed at enhancing traffic law enforcement during nighttime and early morning hours to address hazardous violations. Ydanis Rodriguez, the Commissioner of the Department of Transportation (DOT), and Philip Rivera, the Chief of the City Police’s Traffic Division, revealed this initiative, coinciding with the end of Daylight Saving Time on November 3rd.

Established in 2016, this program has entered its ninth year with the goal of reducing traffic-related fatalities through increased enforcement and public education. The initiative addresses the increased risks during fall and winter when darkness falls suddenly at sunset, making these seasons particularly dangerous for traffic accidents. According to the latest data, the implementation of this program has led to an average yearly decrease of 13.5% in nighttime traffic deaths, 21.7% in pedestrian fatalities, and 25.8% in deaths of vehicle occupants.

Starting at the end of October, the police department will ramp up enforcement against risky driving behaviors, including speeding, running red lights, failing to yield to pedestrians, and distracted driving. Additionally, they will target vehicles that double-park or obstruct crosswalks, bike lanes, and bus lanes.

With Daylight Saving Time ending soon, the city government will also leverage social media to remind drivers about low visibility conditions, urging them to adhere to the 25 mph speed limit and to yield to pedestrians and cyclists.

Rivera emphasized, “As we approach the end of this year’s Daylight Saving Time, we urge all residents to remain vigilant while driving, biking, or crossing the street. Our officers and DOT enforcement staff have a primary mission: to ensure the safety of everyone on our streets and highways.”

Rodriguez added, “With the fall sunsets, the risk for pedestrians increases. This enforcement initiative serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down and stay alert with the changes in daylight. The police department’s crackdown on distracted driving, combined with the DOT’s automated cameras, will help remind drivers to reduce speed and stop at red lights. Drivers must take responsibility for their actions.”