State Legislation and Policies

New Jersey State Laws

Stop for Crossing Guards 
Effective August 1, 2007, fines for failure to comply with a school crossing guard signal to stop were increased to not less than $150 for a first offense. For a subsequent offense the operator shall be fined not less than $300. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-80.1)

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Pedestrian Crosswalk Laws
New Jersey’s pedestrian laws have been strengthened. Effective April 1, 2010, motorists must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians in crosswalks or risk a $200 fine, 15 days of community service and four points on their licenses. This legislation doubles the fines and increases the portion of each fine to be deposited into the “Pedestrian Safety Enforcement and Education Fund” (N.J.S.A. 39:4-36).

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Statewide Health Initiative
Safe Routes to School has been included in the New Jersey Obesity Prevention Action Plan and the Governor’s Pedestrian Safety Initiative, both announced in 2006. SRTS is also included in the state’s Comprehensive Highway Safety Improvement Plan (CHSIP). 

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Complete Streets Policy 
The NJDOT instituted a Complete Streets Policy in December 2009 and several municipalities in New Jersey have done the same. The Office of Bicycle and Pedestrian Programs held a day-long workshop on the policy for NJDOT managers and staff in June and again in August. A Complete Streets Summit for local stakeholders was held on October 22nd.  Learn more about Complete Streets.