New Jersey Right-of-Way Laws: Essential Information for Drivers

Understanding and adhering to New Jersey’s right-of-way laws is essential for maintaining safety and order on the state’s roads. These laws define how drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists should interact, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow. This article provides a comprehensive overview of New Jersey’s right-of-way regulations, offering vital information for all road users.

Defining Right-of-Way

In New Jersey, the term “right-of-way” refers to the legal right of a pedestrian, vehicle, or bicycle to proceed in a particular situation ahead of others. Yielding the right-of-way means allowing another road user to go first. It’s crucial to understand that even if you have the right-of-way, the law mandates exercising caution to prevent collisions.

Intersections

Intersections are common points of conflict, making right-of-way rules particularly important:

• Controlled Intersections: At intersections regulated by stop signs or traffic signals, drivers must obey the signals and signs. Yield to pedestrians legally crossing and to other vehicles as directed by the signals.
• Uncontrolled Intersections: When approaching an intersection without signs or signals, reduce speed and be prepared to stop for traffic on the right or left. Yield to vehicles already in the intersection or those approaching from the right.
• T-Intersections: At a “T” intersection without signs, the driver on the terminating road must yield to traffic on the through road.

Pedestrian Crossings

Pedestrian safety is a priority in New Jersey:

• Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. An unmarked crosswalk exists at any intersection where the sidewalks meet. More details are available at the New Jersey MVC.
• Jaywalking: Pedestrians must exercise caution and not step into traffic that is too close for a driver to yield.

Turning Maneuvers

Specific rules apply when making turns:

• Left Turns: Drivers intending to turn left within an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway must yield to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard. Proceed only when it’s safe.
• Right Turns on Red: In New Jersey, drivers may turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear unless a sign indicates otherwise.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow:

• Entering: Vehicles entering a roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating. Wait for a sufficient gap before merging.
• Navigating: Once inside, proceed counterclockwise without stopping or overtaking. Use your turn signal when preparing to exit.

Emergency Vehicles

When an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and flashing lights:

• Action Required: Immediately pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the vehicle has passed. If you’re in an intersection, continue through before pulling over safely.

Move Over Law

New Jersey’s Move Over Law requires drivers to exercise due care when approaching stationary emergency or service vehicles:

• Action Required: Upon approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck, or highway maintenance vehicle displaying flashing lights, drivers must change lanes into a lane not adjacent to the vehicle, if safe to do so. If a lane change is not possible, reduce speed and be prepared to stop.

Special Situations

Certain scenarios require additional attention:

• Entering Roadways: Drivers entering or leaving an alley, driveway, garage, or private road must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians on the sidewalk and to all vehicles approaching on the roadway. More details at Justia Law.
• School Buses: Drivers must stop for school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop signs, regardless of the direction from which they are approaching. Remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the driver signals to proceed.

Consequences of Failing to Yield

Not yielding the right-of-way can lead to severe consequences:

• Legal Repercussions: Violations can result in fines ranging from $52 to $202, two points on your driving record, and potential community service or jail time.
• Safety Risks: Failing to yield increases the likelihood of collisions, endangering drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Staying Informed

Traffic laws can evolve. To stay updated:

• Consult Official Resources: Regularly review the New Jersey MVC Driver Manual available on their website.
• Stay Abreast of New Laws: Legislation affecting right-of-way rules may change. For instance, recent laws have addressed pedestrian rights and jaywalking regulations.

Conclusion

Understanding and respecting right-of-way laws is essential for the safety of all road users in New Jersey. By adhering to these rules, drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists contribute to a harmonious and secure traffic environment. Always exercise caution, remain aware of your surroundings, and prioritize safety over asserting right-of-way.