In New Jersey, road safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re driving, walking, or using a bike or scooter, knowing the rules can help prevent accidents—and save lives.
To better protect vulnerable road users—including pedestrians, cyclists, scooter riders, and people using wheelchairs—New Jersey passed the Safe Passing Law (A5570/S2208). This law outlines exactly how drivers must behave when approaching people traveling outside of motor vehicles.
Let’s break it down so everyone stays safe and informed.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way: What the Law Says
When it comes to pedestrians:
- Drivers must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
- At intersections without marked crosswalks, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the street.
Failing to yield or stop can lead to serious penalties, including fines, points on your license, and even community service.
The Safe Passing Law: Protecting Everyone on the Road
Signed into law in 2021, the Safe Passing Law gives clear guidance to motorists on how to safely navigate around non-motorized road users. Here’s what it requires:
When Passing Vulnerable Road Users:
- Follow all no-passing and speed limit laws.
- Change lanes, if possible, to create space.
- If the road has only one lane in each direction:
- Maintain a minimum 4-foot buffer zone when passing.
- If 4 feet isn’t possible, slow down to 25 mph or less and be prepared to stop if necessary to ensure a safe pass.
This law applies to anyone sharing the road outside of a motor vehicle—including people on bikes, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, or wheelchairs.
Penalties for Drivers Who Fail to Comply
Ignoring the law comes with real consequences. Drivers who fail to stop for pedestrians or violate the Safe Passing Law may face:
- 2 points on their driving record
- A $200 fine, plus court costs
- 15 days of community service
- Potential insurance surcharges
These penalties are in place to reinforce how serious the state is about pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Pedestrian Responsibilities
It’s not just drivers who have rules to follow. Pedestrians also play a role in keeping roads safe:
- Always obey pedestrian traffic signals.
- Use crosswalks at intersections with signals.
- Stay alert—avoid distractions like phones or headphones when crossing streets.
Failure to follow pedestrian laws can result in a $54 fine (N.J.S.A. C.39:4-32 and 33).
Stay Aware, Stay Safe
Whether you’re behind the wheel or crossing the street, awareness is key. Keep an eye out for signs, signals, and people around you. Slowing down and giving space can make all the difference.
The Safe Passing Law reminds us that our roads are for everyone—not just drivers. Respect the rules, respect each other, and let’s keep New Jersey moving safely.
If the unexpected happens, you are not alone. Contact Cooper Levenson’s Personal Injury Practice today if you need assistance.
Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570.
The content of this post should not be construed as legal advice. You should consult a lawyer concerning your particular situation and any specific legal question you may have.