Gov. Phil Murphy has signed legislation that strengthens requirements for driver education and testing to teach drivers about sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists.
The legislation builds upon the governor’s previous efforts to make New Jersey’s roads safer. Earlier this year, he established the Target Zero Commission – a 13-member group charged with identifying and implementing strategies to eliminate serious roadway injuries and fatalities in the state by 2040.
“Today’s legislation marks another essential step toward reducing roadside fatalities and making our streets safer,” Murphy said during a ceremony in Maplewood on July 17. He was joined by vehicle-crash victims, advocates, community members and local and state leaders.
The law requires that both driver’s education curriculums and driver’s exams include information about a driver’s responsibilities when approaching a pedestrian operating a bicycle or personal conveyance. From 2023 to 2024, traffic fatalities increased by 14%. The overall increase was largely due to a 36%-increase in pedestrian fatalities. As of July, traffic fatalities are down 17% and pedestrian fatalities are down 31%, compared with the same time period last year.
“It’s crucial for drivers to exercise caution and vigilance whenever they’re behind the wheel,” explained Latrecia Littles-Floyd, acting chief administrator of the state’s Motor Vehicle Commission. “By cultivating careful driving and passing practices, we aim to make our roads safer for everyone. Let’s all commit to driving responsibly and protecting each other.”
“In a state as densely populated as New Jersey, it’s especially important that drivers remain aware that they are sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists,” noted Michael Rizol Jr., safety director for the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety.
“After the most dangerous year for pedestrians since 1986, New Jersey is grappling with a heartbreaking safety crisis that affects every community throughout the state,” said Zeke Weston, policy coordinator at New Jersey Future. “… Driving isn’t just about controlling your vehicle, it’s about being responsible for the safety of everyone around you, especially vulnerable road users like pedestrians, seniors, and cyclists.
“This legislation addresses a critical gap in the current driver-education system and is a significant step toward making New Jersey’s roads safer for everyone.”
