More Patrols Coming To Cranford As Police Launch Seat Belt Crackdown

CRANFORD, NJ — Drivers in Cranford may notice more police patrols on local roads as the township joins New Jersey’s annual “Click It or Ticket” seat belt campaign.

According to Cranford Police Chief Matthew Nazzaro, Cranford is one of only 113 municipalities statewide participating in this year’s mobilization — and one of just three police departments in Union County taking part.

The statewide campaign focuses on encouraging drivers and passengers to buckle up while also increasing enforcement for seat belt violations.

“The main goal of the Click it or Ticket program is to educate the public about the importance of wearing your seat belt,” Nazzaro said.

He added that the campaign is not tied to any one recurring issue in Cranford, but is instead part of a larger statewide effort focused on safety and awareness.

As part of the initiative, officers will conduct additional roving patrols throughout town.

“The Cranford Police Department takes the educational aspect of adhering to seatbelt laws very seriously,” Nazzaro said.

While the department hopes education increases compliance, officers will also issue summonses through targeted enforcement during the campaign, he added.

Township officials recently approved a resolution supporting Cranford’s participation in the program. According to the resolution, New Jersey recorded 547 motor vehicle fatalities in 2025, and many of those killed were not wearing seat belts.