Want a N.J. Driver’s License? New Exam Questions On Pedestrian, Bike Safety Proposed

HOBOKEN, NJ — A quartet of New Jersey state legislators have introduced a bill that would make drivers learn how to share the road with bicyclists and pedestrians before getting their license.

If passed into law, the bill – A4165 – would require the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to include bicycle and pedestrian safety as part of the written examination required to obtain an examination permit and basic driver’s license.

Additional questions on a driver’s written test might involve:

• Passing a cyclist on the road
• Recognizing bicycle lanes
• Navigating intersections with pedestrians and cyclists
• Exiting a vehicle without endangering pedestrians and cyclists

The bill would also require the curriculum for driver’s education courses in New Jersey to include information on sharing the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, skaters and riders of other non-motorized vehicles.

The New Jersey Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee advanced the bill on Monday. It would take effect on the first day of the seventh month after enactment.

Read the full bill here.

“I started seeing more people use bikes in my hometown of Hoboken, and so much of a driver’s education is focused on interactions a driver may have with other automobiles,” co-sponsor Annette Chaparro (D-33, Hudson) said. “But as we’re seeing with the introduction of more bike share programs, motorists have to share the road with many people who are walking or operating other types of vehicles on a regular basis. In order to keep New Jersey’s roadways safe for everyone, it’s critical that new drivers learn the correct way to interact with bicyclists, pedestrians and others who are not in automobiles.”

The bill’s other co-sponsors also offered support for the measure:

• Raj Mukherji (D-33, Hudson) – “Jersey City has experienced far too many pedestrian fatalities in recent years – including the heartbreaking death of 11-year-old George Gonzalez – and tragically, it’s not the only community affected by this issue. While making New Jersey’s roads safer for those who aren’t driving is a complex matter that requires a multi-faceted approach, improving driver’s education is a critical piece of the puzzle.”
• Nicholas Chiaravalloti (D-31, Hudson) – “Traffic fatalities and injuries involving pedestrians and bicyclists often are the result of a motorist driving too fast or being distracted. In addition to emphasizing the importance of obeying the rules of the road and staying focused while behind the wheel, incorporating topics such as passing a cyclist on the road and navigating intersections with pedestrians and cyclists into the new curriculum for new drivers can help make New Jersey’s streets safer for drivers and non-drivers alike.”
• Angela McKnight (D-31, Hudson) – “Everyone in New Jersey has a right to travel safely, regardless of whether or not they’re in an automobile. Instilling a respect for pedestrians and bicyclists at an early age will foster an awareness of non-drivers on the road and keep all residents of the state safe.”

Photo: City of Hoboken

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