If you were planning to treat New York’s roads like a holiday free-for-all, officials have a message: don't.
State and city agencies are rolling out extra patrols, checkpoints and enforcement across New York through New Year’s Day as holiday travel ramps up, blood alcohol levels increase and patience runs thin.
Gov. Kathy Hochul said state police and local departments are taking part in the nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, with a focus on drunk, drug-impaired and reckless driving through Jan. 1, 2026.
“Anyone making the decision to place themselves or other drivers in danger this holiday season will be ticketed or face criminal charges,” Hochul said in a statement. "Our state has zero tolerance for impaired and reckless driving because the safety of New Yorkers is always my top priority."
In New York City, the NYPD, city DOT, Taxi and Limousine Commission and health officials said officers will be out in force looking for speeding and intoxicated drivers, especially on highways and streets where dangerous driving has been a problem.
NYPD Chief of Transportation Olufunmilola Obe said officers will be “highly visible” and urged New Yorkers to use transit, ride-hail apps or a sober friend.
Construction lane closures on state highways are being suspended during the busiest holiday stretches, starting Wednesday morning and again around New Year’s, officials said. Some work may continue behind barriers or for emergencies, though, so don't get too comfortable.
State officials also said drivers should remain aware of the expanded Move Over Law, which requires slowing down and moving over for any vehicle stopped on the roadside, not just emergency vehicles.
And if you're hitting the state Thruway late on New Year’s Eve, there is free coffee and hot tea overnight at service areas courtesy of the Thruway Authority.
