On March 1st of this year, New Jersey passed the Safe Passing Law. The Safe Passing Law is for all motorists about when and how to pass people sharing the road on foot, on bicycles, on scooters, wheelchairs, etc.
The new law requires all drivers to use “due caution” whenever they see anyone on the road. Due caution means to caution in great care In order to avoid possible danger.
- Drivers must follow all current no-passing, no speeding laws and move over a lane if there’s one to move into.
- On a single-lane road, drivers must allow at least a 4-foot safety zone when they pass.
- If 4 feet is not possible on a section of road, drivers must slow to 25 mph and be prepared to stop until they can pass safely without endangering those sharing the road.
The penalty of violating the law is $100. There are no points given for violating the safe passing law. However, the driver who causes the vulnerable person to have bodily injury could be fined $500 and 2 points on their license. It is important to know the driver may have to pay for the compensatory damages or a lawsuit.
It is important for all ages to keep updated on all new laws. Of course you may not be notified through email or text messages. At OPTU, we are here to keep you informed of new driving laws to make sure you are reducing risk and improving your personal safety on the roads.
