Bill > A4765

This bill requires comprehensive updates to driver education and licensing procedures in New Jersey to enhance safety for vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, and those using personal conveyances. Specifically, the bill mandates that driver's license examinations include additional questions about safely sharing roadways with non-motorized vehicles, covering topics such as driver responsibilities when approaching and passing pedestrians or cyclists, recognizing bicycle lanes, navigating intersections, and exiting vehicles without endangering others. The driver's manual must now include detailed information about these responsibilities and associated penalties for non-compliance. The bill also requires the driver education curriculum to emphasize roadway sharing techniques, defensive driving, and understanding traffic laws. Additionally, an informational brochure for parents of new drivers will be created to highlight the importance of teaching safe roadway interactions. These changes aim to improve road safety by increasing awareness and understanding of potential risks and proper behaviors when interacting with pedestrians and cyclists. The new requirements will be implemented 13 months after the bill's enactment, with provisions for the chief administrator to prepare in advance.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4765