Legislation to better protect New Jersey bicyclists and pedestrians was released Monday by an Assembly committee. The bill was sponsored by Assemblywomen L. Grace Spencer, Nancy Pinkin and Shavonda Sumter.
“When you’re behind the wheel of a vehicle, you have an obligation to share the road with everyone else – including pedestrians and cyclists,” said Spencer (D-Essex), herself an avid cyclist. “Helping to clarify and codify that the rules of the road extend to folks who may not be behind the wheel of an automobile will help make everyone safer.”
Under the bill (A-1348), a motorist overtaking a cyclist or pedestrian traveling in the same direction would be required to leave “a reasonable and safe distance” of at least four feet between the vehicle and the cyclist or pedestrian until he or she has been safely passed. Failure to do so would be punishable by a fine of up to $500.
“Cycling and walking are environmentally-friendly means of transport that we ought to encourage in New Jersey,” said Pinkin (D-Middlesex). “By taking action to make sure that motorists share the road, we can help ensure that these activities are safe and reduce the health care and work loss costs associated with accidents.”
Fatal motor vehicle crashes involving either cyclists or pedestrians result in more than $200 million in combined medical costs and work loss costs annually in New Jersey, according to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.
“If drivers leave enough distance when passing a cyclist or a pedestrian, it makes non-motorists feel less threatened and significantly reduces the odds of an accident,” said Sumter (D-Bergen/Passaic). “Everyone – whether they’re in an automobile or not – should feel safe on the road in New Jersey.”
The bill was advanced by the Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee.
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So basically go into oncoming traffic? Or reduce my speed to 5 mph for 10 minutes until the pedestrian notices and moves over?
Anon; you will figure it out. I am a cyclist and it is scary how close drivers come to me. Thanks Grace!! Hope all out elected officials push this.
What about pedestrians belong on sidewalks if available and bicyclists being required to follow the laws of the roadway as they are required to do
This is all about making more $$$ off of motorists, cloaked in governmentspeak of safety. Typical of politicians.
are they planning to widen the roads and crack down on improper pedestrian and bike traffic? or only I am punished for driving a nasty awful car that contributes nothing to society but pollution?
These laws are nuts like the crosswalk law.
Another stupid law. Passed by our dumb politicians.
Another stupid law to rob your money
When I won’t have to worry about falling into potholes anymore, I’ll consider if this is normal.
Until then, I’ve got enough to watch for.
How about they create a law to have bussing for the children. Now that should be something to consider.