New Safe Passing Law Takes Effect After Deadly Year on NJ Roads - The SandPaper

Just in time for longer days and warm weather, New Jersey’s Safe Passing Law, the nation’s strictest safe passing law, went into effect earlier this month. Motorists now bear the brunt of responsibility when sharing the roads with pedestrians, cyclists and rollers under the measure.

As of March 1, drivers must use “due caution” and follow all current no-passing and no-speeding laws, and move over a lane, if there’s one to move into. On a single-lane road, drivers must allow for a 4-foot safety zone when passing. If a safety zone is not available on a section of the road, drivers must slow to 25 mph and be prepared to stop until they can safely pass.

“With the increase in road fatalities and serious injuries across the state, it comes at a critical time,” said Debra Kagan, executive director of the New Jersey Bike and Walk Coalition.

Last year marked the deadliest year on New Jersey roads in 14 years, and the deadliest in 30 years for pedestrians, cyclists and rollers, she said. Driver and passenger fatalities were up 18% in 2021 while pedestrian deaths were up 24% and cyclist fatalities increased by 28%.

“This law gives us the opportunity to build awareness and prioritize safety first, making our roads safer for everyone, especially vulnerable road users,” Kagan said. “The pandemic led to a surge of car and truck traffic on our roads along with increased speeding.”

Since the beginning of the public health emergency in March 2020, more people have used the roads on foot or on wheels, by necessity or choice, she added.

The organization, along with its partners, is expected to launch a major public awareness campaign in May.

“We hope to build on the success of the move-over law, ensuring a safe transportation system for everyone,” said Jim Hunt, safe passing campaign leader for NJ Bike and Walk Coalition.

Drivers who violate the new law could face a $500 fine and 2 points on their license, if bodily harm is caused. If no injury occurs, the fine is $100. —G.G.S.

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source: https://www.thesandpaper.net/articles/new-safe-passing-law-takes-effect-after-deadly-year-on-nj-roads/

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