May 2024 – Tips for Sharing the Road Safely

Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours mean more motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic on New Jersey’s already congested roads. Here are a few simple tips that could help cut down on incidents this increased traffic could cause.

Motorists

In addition to all the basic traffic laws – keeping right; obeying traffic signs and speed limits; stopping for pedestrians; and avoiding distractions while driving – remember New Jersey’s 4-foot law. Under this law, motorists travelling on single-lane roads must allow a 4-foot clearance when passing a cyclist or pedestrian. If that’s not possible, motorists must slow to 25 mph and be prepared to stop until passing is safe.

Motorcycle Riders

Motorcycle riders are bound by the same traffic laws as other motorists, including speed limits and passing laws. While New Jersey’s traffic laws do not specifically address lane splitting (i.e., riding between cars), riders who do this could be cited for failure to keep right.

Helmets with neck or chin straps and reflective material on both sides are required for all riders and their passengers. Eye protection (i.e., wind screens, goggles, or face shields) is also required.

Cyclists

Because cyclists have access to the same roads as motorists, they share the same responsibilities: obeying traffic signs, riding in the same direction as traffic, and keeping right.

New Jersey requires all cyclists and passengers under 17 to wear helmets. If riding at night, bikes must be equipped with lights (white on front, red on back) for better visibility.

Pedestrians

Use sidewalks when available; otherwise stay close to the curb or shoulder of the road and walk facing traffic. Cross only at crosswalks or intersections and make eye contact with nearby drivers and cyclists to make sure you’re noticed before crossing. Watch for vehicles backing in and out of driveways and in parking lots. Stay alert and be visible, especially at night; wear light or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight.

Adherence to New Jersey’s traffic laws and a little common sense can go a long way toward sharing the road safely.