Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, and New Jersey's pedestrian death rate is well above the national average. Drivers are held responsible for pedestrian safety: stop for people in crosswalks, marked or not, and never pass a car that has stopped for one.
Know the rule
Failing to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk can bring a fine of up to $500, up to 25 days in jail, community service, up to 6 months' suspension, and 2 points.
Handbook p. 68 ↗A driver must
- Watch for pedestrians when turning on red
- Obey speed limits and stay alert for pedestrians
- Never block or park in a crosswalk
- Keep the windshield clean for maximum visibility
- Expect pedestrians near schools, town centers, neighborhoods and parks
- Never pass a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian
- Stop for pedestrians still in the crosswalk even after the signal changes
Speed and pedestrian deaths
| Vehicle speed | Fatality rate in a crash |
|---|---|
| 20 mph | 5 percent |
| 40 mph | 85 percent |
Unmarked crosswalk
There is a crosswalk at every intersection, even if no lines are painted.
Handbook p. 146 ↗Know the rule
Stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk, and yield to a pedestrian in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection (except where police or signals control traffic, or a pedestrian tunnel or overpass is provided).
Handbook p. 146 ↗Know the rule
When stopped at a red light or stop sign, no part of your vehicle may be in the crosswalk.
Handbook p. 146 ↗Know the rule
Pedestrians must obey pedestrian signals and use crosswalks at signalized intersections ($54 fine; $22 if under 17). No pedestrian may suddenly step off a curb into the path of a vehicle too close to yield.
Handbook p. 146 ↗Penalties for not stopping for a pedestrian
| Case | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Violation | Up to $200, 2 points, up to 15 days community service |
| Pedestrian seriously injured | $100-$500, up to 25 days jail, up to 6 months' suspension |
Where to stop before a crosswalk on a multilane road, so drivers in the next lane can see the pedestrian
Handbook p. 147 ↗Safe Passing Law: passing vulnerable road users with "due caution"
- Obey all no-passing and speed laws; move over a lane if one is available
- On a single-lane road, allow at least a 4-foot safety zone
- If 4 feet isn't possible, slow to 25 mph and be ready to stop until you can pass safely
Know the rule
Watch for signs marking school zones, bus stops, playgrounds and parks. Children chasing a ball give no thought to traffic; watch for movement around parked cars.
Handbook p. 147 ↗Know the rule
Pedestrians should face oncoming traffic, use sidewalks, cross at crosswalks on the proper signal, and at night wear light or reflective clothing and carry a white handkerchief or a light.
Handbook p. 147 ↗Know the rule
You must stop for a blind person using a white or metallic cane or a guide dog, or a guide dog instructor training a dog, crossing any highway or intersection.
Handbook p. 148 ↗Put it into practice
On a four-lane street the car in the lane beside you stops at a crosswalk. Stop too: a pedestrian may be stepping out in front of it. Stopping about 30 feet back also keeps you from blocking other drivers' view.