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Ask Officer Raff:
Dear Officer Raff,
Several times in the past couple of years I've found
myself driving behind what I think might be a drunk
driver. The car is usually weaving from side to side
within the lane, and often going too slow. What, if
anything, should I do?
Thanks from See Something, Say Something(?)
Dear See Something,
Considering the Holiday Season is around the corner, with its attendant parties
and gatherings, your question is very timely! If you are driving behind
someone who is operating their vehicle in such a manner, you
should definitely notify the police, if you feel safe in doing so. Try
to note the location, vehicle make, model, color and license plate, along with
a description of how they are unsafely operating the vehicle (failing to stay in
lane, etc.), if you can safely gather that information, and pass it along to the
dispatcher, who will notify officers to check the area. Regards, Officer Raff
Dear Officer Raff,
What is the protocol if you are the first to see an accident or an emergency
(like a fire)? I know that we should call 9-1-1, but should we try to help the
person in the car, or the fire?
Sincerely, Hope for the Best and Prepare for the Worst
Dear Hope for the Best,
As you noted, the first and most important step, whenever you see an accident
or other emergency, is to call 9-1-1, which activates the emergency response.
In New Jersey, there are no laws which obligate bystanders to help in case
of an emergency, however, many people have difficulty doing nothing while
waiting for first responders to arrive on scene. The actions you take, or do
not take, are strictly up to your judgement, training and comfort level in a
given situation. The Good Samaritan Law, New Jersey Legislative Statutes
§2A:62A-1, generally protects the following persons from civil liability
if they render aid at an accident scene:
• Persons with no medical training
• Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who happen
to be off-duty bystanders during an emergency
• Volunteer first aid or emergency associations
• Volunteer ambulance or rescue squads
Whatever your decision, please always remember to ensure your
safety before attempting to help others. Regards, Officer Raff
n Officer Raffaella Vastola grew up locally in Kingwood Township, and has been
in law enforcement for over 18 years, serving almost seven years with CTPD. She
and her husband currently live in Raritan Township with their five children, two
of whom serve in the military (Marine Corps and the Navy). Officer Raff thinks
Clinton Township is a wonderful place to work, live and raise a family, and she
is very proud to serve and protect our community with a dedicated group of men
and women who help to keep it that way for everyone. n
Do you have questions for our local
Clinton Township Police Department? Ask Officer Raff
by emailing: ctnl@comcast.net or: rvastola@ctpd.org
and add the words "Ask Officer Raff" in the subject line.
Locally Owned and Operated
by Phil & Diane Koury
185 Center St., Clinton • 735.4499
