New Jersey driver’s ed to include focus on pedestrian, cyclist safety under new law (New Jersey Monitor)
Shift into Safe
Legislation signed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy in July will require new drivers to learn how to safely approach and pass pedestrians and cyclists on the road.
The new law, approved unanimously by lawmakers earlier this year, will make certain that every New Jersey motorist “fully understands their duty to keep all road users safe,” Murphy said before signing the bill in Maplewood.
“It builds on our broader commitment to ensuring that a walk, a drive, or a bike ride never again results in an empty seat at the table,” he said.
Under the law, driver’s education curriculum will now include a driver’s responsibilities when approaching and passing pedestrians or people on bicycles, as well as the penalties for failing to comply.
In New Jersey, motorists approaching pedestrians or cyclists must slow down, give the other users 4 feet of space, or move over a lane if possible.
In 2024, the state hit a 30-year high for pedestrian fatalities, with more than 200 pedestrians killed and over 690 total traffic fatalities.
Murphy was joined in Maplewood by families affected by motor vehicle crashes.
Scott Schoenborn’s daughter Kate was in a crosswalk headed to school when a motorist hit her, leaving her with severe injuries that required several hours of surgery and months of rehabilitation.
“This new law is a step in the right direction, and we hope it brings more awareness to drivers and pedestrians of New Jersey,” Schoenborn said. “We hope this new law is followed by additional measures to help reduce the likelihood of other families being impacted like ours.”
The law also requires driver’s manuals to include information underscoring that cars share the roads with pedestrians, cyclists, skaters and scooter riders. The law goes into effect next year.
In January, Murphy signed a bill into law creating the “Target Zero Commission,” tasked with finding ways to eliminate serious roadway injuries and fatalities by 2040.
