NJ Driver's Manual

ManualDriverThe

New Jersey

www.njmvc.gov

The New Jersey Driver License SystemNew Jersey Driver TestsDriver ResponsibilitySafe Driving Rules & RegulationsDefensive DrivingDrinking, Drugs & HealthDriver Privileges & PenaltiesSharing the Road with OthersVehicle InformationEssential Driver InformationMotorcycle ManualAppendicesDriver SafetyMVC Locations & Hours

Table of Contents

529375779101

109129143157165

201213

NEw JERSEy DRIVER MaNuaL

Chapter 1

New Jersey Driver MaNual www.njmvc.gov

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Examination Permits for new Jersey Residents Examination Permits for Out-of-State DriversExamination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers International Driving Permit (IDP)non-Driver IDHearing-Impaired DesignationCommercial Driver license (CDl)

22222323242424

The New Jersey Driver license System

laws Governing Driver licensesDigital Driver licenseTypes of new Jersey licenses6 Point ID VerificationGraduated Driver license (GDl)Special learner Permits for new Jersey Residents

688111621

lawS GOVERnInG DRIVER lICEnSES• A motorist who operates a motor vehicle in the State of New Jersey

mustcarryavaliddriverlicense,avalidprobationarylicenseoravalidatedNewJerseypermit.Themotoristmustalsocarryvalidinsuranceandvehicleregistrationcards.(N.J.S.A.39:3-29)

• AmotoristwithavalidatedNewJerseydriverpermitmustbeaccompaniedbyanappropriatelylicenseddriver.(N.J.S.A.39:3-13,39:3-13.2a)

• AmotoristwhoisalegalresidentofNewJerseymustbelicensedinthisstate.(N.J.S.A.39:3-10,39:3-17.1)

• A motorist who changes addresses must report this change to the MVCwithinoneweekaftermoving.ThisincludesindividualswhoaremovingoutofNewJersey.(N.J.S.A.39:3-36)

• Amotoristwholegallychangeshis/hername(marriage,divorce,adoption)mustreportthechangetotheMVCwithintwoweeks.(N.J.S.A.39:3-9b)

• Amotoristwithavalidout-of-statelicensewhomovestoNewJerseymustapply foraNewJersey licensewithin60days (commercialdriver license–CDL-within30days)orbeforethecurrentlicenseexpires,whicheverissooner.Theout-ofstate licensemustbesurrenderedprior to receivingaNewJerseylicense.(N.J.S.A.39:3-17.1,39:3-10.17,39:5D-5)

• AmotoristwhoisaforeignnationalwithavalidlicensefromanothercountrymaybeeligibleforaNewJerseydriver license. If themotorist receivesaNewJersey license,he/shewillnothave tosurrender theout-of-countrylicense.

• Operatorsofcommercialvehicles,suchaslargetrucks,busesandvehiclesthat transport hazardous materials, must satisfy more stringent testingstandardsthanthedriversofautomobilesormotorcycles.Theseoperatorsmuststillpossessavalid,basicNewJerseydriverlicensepriortoapplyingforaCDL.


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.• Individuals who have never had a driver license must complete theMVC’sGraduatedDriverLicense(GDL)Program,whichintroducesdrivingprivileges in phases with a period of supervised driving before getting abasicdriverlicense.(N.J.S.A.39:3-10,39:3-13through39:3-13.8)

• AllapplicantsforaNewJerseydriverlicensewhoareunder18yearsofagemust present a completed consent form signed by a parent or guardian.(N.J.S.A.39:3-13and39:3-13.3)

• GDL,speciallearnerandexaminationpermitsarevaliduntilallqualificationsforaprobationarylicensearemet,orfortwoyears,whicheveroccursfirst.Allothersarevalidfor90days.

• All applicants for a New Jersey driver license must provide a full name,current address, Social Security number, 6 Points of ID Verification andother documentation that verifies that their legal presence in the UnitedStates is authorizedunder federal law.Documentsmustbe inEnglishorhave an approved translation. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-9a, 39:3-9b, 39:3-10 andN.J.A.C.13:21-1.1,13:21-1.2,13:21-1.3,13:21-8.2)

• Allexaminationpermitandprobationarydriversshallnotoperateamotorvehiclewithoutdisplayingtwovisible,reflectivedecals,whichareprovidedby the Motor Vehicle Commission, on the license plates of the vehicle(39:3-13and39:3-13.4f)

DIGITal DRIVER lICEnSEIn2004,NewJerseyceasedtheissuanceoflaminatedpaper licensesand implemented theuseof thedigitaldriverlicense(DDL).TheDDL,alongwiththeMVC’s6 Point ID Verification requirement (see page 11),helpstoeliminatetheprevalenceoffraudandabuse.TheDDLincludesnearlytwodozensecurityfeatures,includingdigitalphotographsandsignature.TheDDLis issued at all MVC agencies. Motorists under 21yearsofageareissuedadistinctivevertical-formatDDL.MostDDLsissuedarevalidforfouryears.

Alteringadriver licenseor showinganaltereddriver licensemayresultinlossofamotorist’sdrivingprivilege,afineofupto$1,000and/oruptosixmonthsimprisonment.Inaddition,gettingadriverlicenseillegallymayresultinafineofupto$200to$500and/orimprisonmentof30to90days.

restrictionsIf a motorist has a restriction on his/her license (such as the need to wearcorrectivelenseswhiledriving),itwillappearonthelicenseinacodedform.

Restrictionsareasfollows:• 1-Correctivelensesrequired

• 2-Prostheticdevice

• 3-Mechanicaldevice

• 4-Hearingimpaired

• 5-Attachedrestrictions1

1Thiscategoryappliestospecialmodificationstoanapplicant’svehicleorlimiteddriverprivilegesforamedicalcondition.Thecarddetailingtheattachedrestrictionsmustremainwiththedriverlicense.

TyPES Of nEw JERSEy lICEnSESThe followingchartshowsage requirements, license feesand required testsfor each type of license that the MVC offers. Testing for commercial andmoped licenses will require the use of topic-specific manuals in addition tousingthisDriverandMotorcycleManual.CopiesofthecommercialormopedmanualsmaybeobtainedatanyMVCagencyor viewedonlineor requestedatwww.njmvc.gov.


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Manualsmayalsobeobtainedbycalling(888) 486-3339toll-freeinNewJerseyor(609) 292-6500fromoutofstate.

Anendorsementaddedtoalicensewillexpirewiththelicense.Whenanendorsementisaddedtoanexistinglicense,thechargefortheendorsementisproratedtocovertheperiodremaininguntilexpiration.

Basic Automobile LicenseFor all types of Class D motor vehiclesregisteredbytheMVC,exceptmotorcycles.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

4 Years

18 (Permit: 16)

$10

$24

KVR 1

Probationary Automobile LicenseFor all types of Class D motor vehiclesregisteredbytheMVC,exceptmotorcycles.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Commercial Driver LicenseForlargetrucks,busesandvehicles(ClassesA,BandC).

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Motorcycle LicenseFormostvehicleswithfewerthanfourwheels(ClassE). Issuedasaseparate licenseorasan endorsement (M) if the individual alreadyholdsabasicNewJerseydriverlicense.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Probationary Motorcycle LicenseFormostvehicleswithfewerthanfourwheels(ClassE). Issuedasaseparate licenseorasan endorsement (M) if the individual alreadyholdsabasicNewJerseydriverlicense.

Expira tion:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Tests Required:

4 Years

17

$10+$4 decals

$6 3

KVR 1

4 Years

17

$10+$4 decals

$6 3

KVR 1

4 Years

18/21 4

$125 5

$32

CKVR

4 Years

17

$5

$24 or $18 6

KVR 1

Boat LicenseFor individuals 16 years of age and older, whooperate a motorboat on fresh, non-tidal waters,such as lakes, creeks or rivers, that are notaffectedbytidalconditions.AllpersonswhowishtooperateapowervesselmustpossessaBoatingSafetyCertificate.FormoreinformationaboutNewJerseyboatingrequirements,visittheStatePoliceMarine Services Web site at www.state.nj.us/njsp/maritime/index.html. (N.J.S.A.12:7-61.1)

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

4 Years

16

n/a

$18

n/a non-tidalwaters only

1

K-Knowledge, v-vision, r-road, C-Commercial2

Oruntilabasiclicenseisobtainedat18yearsofage.3Motoristmustreturntoagencyinoneyeartohavelicenseupgraded.Feeis$19.50.4

CDLapplicantsmustbeatleast18yearsold.Applicantsunder21maytravelonlyinNewJersey(intrastate,notinterstate)andmaynotreceiveHAZMATorpassengerendorsements.

5Out-of-stateCDLtransferfeesare$10.

6ClassEendorsementsare$24;ClassMendorsementsare$18.

Note:Feesinthismanualaresubjecttochange.Currentfeesareavailableonlineatwww.njmvc.govorbycalling(888) 486-3339toll-freeinNewJerseyor(609) 292-6500fromoutofstate.

Moped License Forunlicensedmotorists15yearsofageandolder.NotneededifoperatorhasaClassA,B,C,DorElicense.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

4 Years 2

15

$5

$6

KVR 1

Agricultural License For farming purposes only. May be granted topersonsbetween16and17yearsold.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

4 Years 2

16

$10

$6

KVR 1


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6 POInT ID VERIfICaTIOnPerN.J.A.C.13:21-8.2,allNewJerseydriverlicenseapplicantsmustcomplete6PointIDVerificationbypresentingdocumentsthatprovetheirage,identity,and legalpresence in theU.S.Allapplicantsmustprove identity throughaprescribedcombinationofdocumentsthatincludes:

• Atleastoneprimarydocument

• Atleastonesecondarydocument

•AtleastsixpointsofID

• Proofofaddress

Usethecharton thefollowingpages toselectyourdocuments,oruse theonlineDocumentSelectoratwww.njmvc.gov/6point.Ifdiscrepanciesexistwithinorbetweendocumentspresented to theMVC,theapplicantmayberequiredtoprovideadditionaldocumentation.Anypermitorlicenseapplicationmayberefusedifadocumentappearsaltered,falseorotherwiseinvalid.

Anon-citizenmust submitproofof continued legalpresence in theUnitedStates.TheMVCmayacceptotherdocumentsprovingidentity,dateofbirthandcontinuedlegalpresence.DocumentsmustbeprovidedinEnglish.

A motorist referred for a conference due to identification issues will berequiredtoprovideanoriginalorcertifiedcopyofhis/hercivilbirthcertificateif a U.S. citizen. Passports will not be accepted. Non-U.S. citizens may beaskedforadditionalidentificationdocuments.

For assistance with 6 Point ID Verification, visit www.njmvc.gov or call(888) 486-3339 toll-freeinNewJerseyor(609) 292-6500 fromoutofstate.

Ifyourcurrentlegalnameisdifferentfromthenameonyourcivilbirthcertificate(e.g.,yourmaidenname),thenyoumustshowlegalproofofthenamechange.Legal proof = Certified marriage or civil union certificate, divorce decree orcourtorder linking thenewnamewithapreviousname.U.S.passport isnotproof of legal name change. A divorce decree may be used as authority toresumeusingapreviousnameonlyifitcontainsthenewnameandthepreviousnameandpermitsareturntouseofthepreviousname.

Certain documents may require proof of legal U.S. presence. Visitwww.njmvc.govforalistorcall(888)486-3339.

All documents must beoriginAlorCertified CopieSin english and have the required state and/or municipal seals.CertifiedcopiesofNewJerseyrecordsareavailablefromthemunicipality thatoriginally issuedthemand from theStateBureauofVitalStatisticsatwww.nj.gov/health/vitalor(609) 292-4087. For information about Jersey City/Hudson Ccounty birthcertificates, visitwww.nj.gov/health/vital/jerseycity. For information aboutbirthcertificatesfromPuertoRico,visitwww.nj.gov/health/vital.

imPOrtAnt inFOrmAtiOn

requirements:At LeAst one PrimAry DocumentAt LeAst one seconDAry DocumenttotAL Documents must be worth 6 Points or moreProof of ADDress sociAL security number

us citizens4-point documents:

Validcivilbirthcertificateorcer-tifiedcopyfromoneofthe50states,DistrictofColumbiaoraUSterritory.Photocopiesorcertificatesfromhospitalsorreligiousentitiesarenotaccepted.PleasereadImportantInformationonpreviouspage.

USDepartmentofStatebirthcertificate(FormFS-545,FS240orDS-1350)

USpassport,currentorexpiredlessthan3years(maynotbeusedforproofoflegalnamechange)

CurrentNJdigitaldriverlicense

CurrentNJdigitalnon-driverIDcard

CurrentNJdigitalboatlicense

ValidactivedutyUSmilitaryphotoIDcard

USadoptionpapers

Certificateofnaturalization(FormN-550,N-570orN-578)

Certificateofcitizenship(FormN-560,N-561orN-645)

non-citizens4-point documents:

ForeignpassportwithINSorUSCISverificationandvalidrecordofar-rival/departure(FormI-94)

ForeignpassportwithINSorUSCISverificationandvalidFormI-551stamp

Currentalienregistrationcard(newFormI-551)withexpirationdateandverificationfromINSorUSCIS

Refugeetraveldocument(FormI-571)

USre-entrypermit(FormI-327)

ValidI-94stamped“Refugee,”“Parolee,”“Asylee”or“NoticeofAc-tion”(FormI-797approvedpetition)byINSorUSCIS

ValidI-94withattachedphotostamped“ProcessedforI-551…”byINSorUSCIS

3-point document: Currentphotoemploymentauthori-

zationcard(FormI-688BorI-766).MustbepresentedwithvalidSocialSecuritycard.

2-point documents: Currentalienregistrationcard(old

FormI-551)withoutexpirationdateandwithINSorUSCISverification

Phototemporaryresidentcard(FormI-688)

choose PRIMARY Documents Youmustshowatleastoneofthese

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3-point documents:

Civilmarriage,domesticpartner-shiporcivilunioncertificateissuedbythemunicipalityinwhichthecer-emonyoccurred.Pleasenote:Pho-tocopiesorcertificatesissuedbyreligiousentitiesarenotacceptable

Orderordecreeofdivorce,dissolutionortermination(see“Im-portantInformation”p.12)

Courtorderforalegalnamechange,signedbyajudgeorcourtclerk

CurrentUSmilitarydependentcard

USmilitaryphotoretireecard

ValidNJfirearmpurchasercard

2-point documents: USschoolphotoIDcardwithtranscriptorschoolrecords

UScollegephotoIDcardwithtranscript

Validfederal,stateorlocalgovernmentemployeedriverlicense

Validfederal,stateorlocalgovernmentemployeephotoIDcard

USmilitarydischargepapers(DD214)

FAApilotlicense

1-point documents: You cannot use more than tWo of these

CurrentPHOTOdriverlicensefromanyotherstateortheDistrictofColumbia

SocialSecuritycard

Bankstatementorrecord

ATMcardwithpreprintednameandapplicant’ssignature.(Pleasenote:AnATMcardandbankstatementcannotbesubmittedtogether.)

Currenthealthinsurancecard,pre-scriptioncardoremployeeIDcardwithprintedpaystub

Stateprofessionallicense

NJpublicassistancecardwithphoto(alsoknownasaNJSocialServicesIDcard)

Highschooldiploma,GEDorcollegediploma

Propertytaxstatement,billorreceiptissuedbyaNewJerseymunicipality

ForNJhighschoolstudents:awaivercertificateforthewrittenportionofthedriver’stest

VeteransAffairsuniversalaccessphotoIDcard

2 choose seConDARY Documents Youmustshowatleastoneofthese

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You must also present proof of residental address, which may be, but is not limited to, one of these

Utilityorcreditcardbillissuedinthepast90daysthatshowsyournameatyourcurrentaddress.

Note:MailaddressedtoP.O.boxesnotacceptedasproofofaddress(39:3-9a)

Checkingorsavingsaccountstatementfromabankorcreditunion,issuedinthepast60days

Highschoolorcollegereportcardortranscriptcontainingyouraddress,issuedwithinthepasttwoyears

Originalleaseorrentalagreementshowingyournameasthelesseeorrenter

Propertytaxbill,statementorreceiptfromthepastyear

Anyletterorcorrespondence(includingtaxbills)receivedfromtheIRSorstatetaxofficeinthepastyear

First-classmailreceivedfromanyfederal,stateorlocalgovernmentagencyinthepastsixmonths

Ifyouareunder18,thenwewillacceptaParentorGuardianCertificationthatverifiesyouarelivingwithaparentorguardian

Tocomplete6PointIDVerification,MVCwillverifythatyourSocialSecuritynumbermatchesyournameandbirthdateonrecordwiththeSocialSecurityAdministrationdatabase.

IfyouarenoteligibleforaSocialSecuritynumber,youmustprovideanexemptionletterfromtheSocialSecurityAdministration.

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ADD uP PointsPrimAry

seconDAry

totAL

+

Mustequal6ormorepoints

3 chooseProofofAddress 4 sociAL

SecurityNumber

GRaDuaTED DRIVER lICEnSE (GDl)In 2001, New Jersey sought to enhance driver preparation and safety byimplementingamulti-stagedriver licensingsystem.Knownas theGraduatedDriverLicense(GDL)Program,thesystemgraduallyintroducesdrivingprivilegestofirst-timedrivers,extendstheirpracticedrivingtimeandrequiresaminimumageof18inordertoreceiveanunrestricted,basicdriverlicense.GDLrestrictionsplaceduponfirst-timedriversmustbestrictlyadheredto.Failuretodosomayresultinafineof$100orapossiblesuspensionofamotorist’sdrivingprivilege.(N.J.S.A.39:3-10and39:3-13through39:13.8)


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OPtiOn

MVCwillvalidateSpecialLearnerPermitsONLYaftertrainingcoursecompletion.

GET a SPECIal lEaRnER PERMIT• Mustbeatleast16yearsold

• Musthavesignedparentorguardianconsent

• Mustbeenrolledinapprovedbehind-the-wheeldrivertrainingcoursethroughtheN.J.DepartmentofEducationorcommercialdrivingschool

• Anapprovedinstructormustpurchasethepermit

• MustpassMVC’sknowledgeandvisiontests

• Mustpayrequiredfee

steP 1

GRaDuaTED

DRIVER

lICEnSE The early Bird road OPtiOn

PRaCTICE wITH an aDulT SuPERVISInG DRIVER• Mustobservespeciallearnerpermitdrivingrestrictions

• Mustpracticeatleastsixmonths

GET a PRObaTIOnaRy lICEnSE• Musthavecompletedsixmonthsofsuperviseddriving

withoutanysuspensionsorpostponements

• MustpassMVC’sroadtest

• Mustbeatleast17yearsold

steP 3

wITH a PRObaTIOnaRy DRIVER lICEnSE• Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

• Mustobserveprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

steP 4

GET THE baSIC DRIVER lICEnSE• Mustbeatleast18yearsold

• Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddrivingwithprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions


steP 5

Note:PermitmaynotbeusedforpracticedrivinguntilvalidatedatanMVCDriverTestingCenter.

A

steP 2

GRaDuaTED

DRIVER

lICEnSE The young adulT road OPtiOn

GET an ExaMInaTIOn PERMIT• MustpassMVC’sknowledgeandvisiontest



• Mustobtainparentorguardianconsentifyouareunder18yearsofage

steP 1

PRaCTICE SuPERVISED DRIVInG• Mustpracticewithanadultsupervisingdriver

• Mustpracticeatleastsixmonths

• Mustobserveexamination-permitdrivingrestrictions

steP 2

GET a PRObaTIOnaRy lICEnSE• Musthavecompletedsixmonthsofsuperviseddriving

withoutanysuspensionsorpostponements

•MustpassMVC’sroadtest

steP 3

PRaCTICE unSuPERVISED DRIVInG• Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

• Mustfollowprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

steP 4

GET THE baSIC DRIVER lICEnSE• Mustbeatleast18yearsold

• Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddriving


steP 5

B


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GRaDuaTED

DRIVER

lICEnSE The adulT road OPtiOn CGET an ExaMInaTIOn PERMIT


• MustpassMVC’sknowledgeandvisiontests


steP 1

PRaCTICE SuPERVISED DRIVInG• Mustpracticewithanadultsupervisingdriver

• Mustpracticeatleastthreemonths

• Mustobserveexaminationpermitdrivingrestrictions

steP 2

GET a PRObaTIOnaRy lICEnSE• Musthavecompletedthreemonthsofsupervised drivingwithoutanysuspensionsorpostponements

• MustpassMVC’sroadtest

steP 3

PRaCTICE unSuPERVISED DRIVInG• Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

• Mustfollowapplicableprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

steP 4

GET THE baSIC DRIVER lICEnSE• Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddriving


steP 5

sPeciAL LeArner Permit restrictions • Nodrivingbetween11:01p.m.and5:00a.m.

• Nousinghand-heldorhands-freecellphonesoranyotherelectronicdevices.

• Permitholdermustbeaccompaniedinthefrontseatbyanadult supervisingdriverwhoisatleast21yearsofageandwhopossessesa validNewJerseydriverlicenseandhasaminimumofthreeyears’ drivingexperience.

• Passengersarelimitedtoanyparent,guardianordependantofthespecial

permitholderandoneadditionalpassenger.

•Permitholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.

• Mustdisplaydecalsonlicenseplates.

exAminAtion Permit restrictions • Nodrivingbetween11:01a.m.and5:00a.m.1


• Permitholdermustbeaccompaniedinthefrontseatbyanadult

supervisingdriverwhoisatleast21yearsofageandwhopossesses avalidNewJerseydriverlicenseandhasaminimumofthreeyears’ drivingexperience.1

• Passengersarelimitedtodependantsofthepermitholderandone

additionalperson,unlessaccompaniedbyaparent/guardian.

•Permitholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.


ProbAtionAry Driver License restrictions • Nodrivingbetween11:01a.m.and5:00a.m.1


• Passengersarelimitedtodependantsoftheprobationarylicenseholder

andoneadditionalperson,unlessaccompaniedbyaparent/guardian.

• Probationarylicenseholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.


1IftheExaminationPermitorProbationaryLicenseholderis21yearsofageorolder,hourandpassengerrestrictionsdonotapply.


New Jersey

Garden Stateg d l

NNewNewNew JJersJersJerseyeyey

Garden Stateg d l

New Jersey

Garden Stateg d l

GDL DecALAllGDLdriversunderage21,whopossessapermitorprobationarylicense,arerequiredtodisplaytwovisible,redreflectivedecals,distributedthroughtheMVConanyvehiclethattheyoperate.Onedecalistobedisplayedonthetopleftcorneroftherearlicenseplateandtheotheronthetopleftcornerofthefrontlicenseplate.Thetwo,removable,decalsareprovidedtoadriveratthetimeapermitisissuedforafeeof$4.Additionaldecalsareavailablefor$4perpairatanyMVCagency.(39:3-13and39:3-13.4f)

GDL Driver exemPtionsExemptions to the hours rule for permit and probationary drivers under 21years:Proofofaneedtodriveduringtheprohibitedhoursforemploymentand/or religion. For an exemption, the motorist must carry a legible certificationto indicatethisneedfromhis/heremployeror religiousofficialontheofficialletterheadofthebusiness,organizationorreligiousinstitution,withthesignatureof the certifying official and his/her name, title, address and phone number.(N.J.A.C.39:21-8.18)

Note:Ifthestudentdrivercommitsatrafficoffense,responsibilitywillbewithboththestudentandinstructororadultsupervisingdriver.Allmotoristswhopossess a probationary driver license, whose probationary licensing periodis not extended by the MVC beyond the standard 12 months, must visit anMVCagency toupgrade toabasicdriver licenseafter theendof those12months. Motorists who fail to do so will remain subject to the probationarydriverlicenserestrictionsandcouldbecitedbylawenforcementforviolatingtherestrictions.

SPECIal lEaRnER PERMITS fOR nEw JERSEy RESIDEnTS AnyNewJerseyresidentwhoisatleast16yearsoldandisnotinsuspensionstatuscanobtainaspeciallearnerpermitatanyMVCagency.Theapplicantmusthavethesignedconsentofhis/herparentorguardian,mustbeenrolledin a behind-the-wheel driver training course approved by the New JerseyDepartmentofEducationorconductedbyacommercialdrivingschool,andmustpasstheMVC’sknowledgetestandvisionscreening.Anapprovedcourseis six full hoursof behind-the-wheel instruction in adual-controlled vehicle.ThesehoursareexclusiveoftimespentattheMVCforpermitpurchasingortesting.Theinstructormustpurchasethepermit,whichisvalidfortwoyears.(N.J.S.A.39:3-13.1)

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ExaMInaTIOn PERMITS fOR nEw JERSEy RESIDEnTS AnyNewJerseyresidentwhoisatleast17yearsoldandisnotinsuspensionstatus can obtain a driver examination permit at any MVC agency. Theexamination permit is different from a student learner permit because theapplicantdoesnothavetobeastudentandaninstructorisnotnecessary.

Note:Adriverexaminationpermitisrequiredevenifthemotoristpossessesavalidlicensefromanotherstate.SeeExaminationPermitsforOut-of-StateDrivers.

Afteranapplicantfillsouttheformwithhis/herpersonalinformationandprovides6PointsofIDVerificationandproofthattheU.S.governmentauthorizeshis/herpresenceinthiscountry,he/shecanpurchaseapermittotaketothenearestDriverTestingCenter.BasicautomobilelicenseapplicantsmustsupplyaSocialSecuritynumberoranexemptionfromtheSocialSecurityAdministration.

Note: Most agencies conduct knowledge testing and vision screening. Tofind out which MVC agencies offer driver testing services, check online at www.njmvc.gov or call (888) 486-3339 toll-free in New Jersey or(609) 292-6500 fromoutofstate.

TheMVCwillvalidatethepermitforpracticedrivingaftertheapplicantpassesthe requiredknowledge test and vision screening. Results are valid for twoyears(seeChapter2).

ExaMInaTIOn PERMITS fOR OuT-Of-STaTE DRIVERSAllout-of-statedriversarerequiredtopurchaseanexaminationpermitwithin60daysofbecomingapermanentNewJerseyresidentorwhenhis/herout-of-statelicenseexpires,whichevercomesfirst.

Out-of-statedriverswhoareunder18yearsofageandmovetoNewJersey

Afteranapplicantfillsouttheformwithhis/herpersonalinformationandpro-vides6PointsofIDVerificationand,ifapplicable,proofthattheU.S.governmentauthorizeshis/herpresenceinthiscountry,theinstructorcanpurchaseapermitatanyMVCagency.BasicautomobilelicenseapplicantsmustsupplyaSocialSecuritynumberoranexemptionfromtheSocialSecurityAdministration.

Uponcompletionof theapproveddriver trainingcourseandbeforepracticedriving, thepermitholdermusthave thepermitvalidatedatanyMVCDriverTestingCenter.


17

aresubjecttothisstate’sGDLProgram(seepp.3-6).IftheywishtoapplyforaNewJerseylicense,he/sheshouldfollowthestepsoutlinedforspecialandexaminationpermitholders.Permitsmaybepurchasedat anyMVCagencyuponpresentingtherequiredproofofageand6PointIDVerification.Applicantsarerequiredtopassvisionscreeningtest.Knowledgeandroadtestsarewaivedaslongasyouhaveavalid,non-probationarydriverlicenseissuedbyanyofthe50statesorDistrictofColumbia.

Out-of-statedriverlicensesmustbesurrenderedwhentheMVCissuesaNewJerseydriverlicense.

ExaMInaTIOn PERMITS fOR OuT-Of-COunTRy DRIVERS Anon-citizenmustshowformalproofthatU.S.CitizenshipandImmigrationSer-vices(USCIS)hasauthorizedhis/herpresenceinthiscountryunderfederallaw.

Students and their families on visas must show INS Form I-20, studentidentificationcardsorcertificationonschoolletterheadindicatingstatus.

Note:Foreigndriversmayusetheirnativedriver licensesasproofofdrivingexperienceiftheircountriesaremembersoftheUnitedNationsConventiononRoadTrafficandiftheapplicantshavetheirlicensestranslatedintoEnglishbyaconsulateoranMVC-approvedtranslator.

Note:LicensesfromUSPossessionsandTerritoriesareconsideredout-of-country.

InTERnaTIOnal DRIVInG PERMIT (IDP)Visitorswitha foreigndriver licensewho travel to theUnitedStatesshouldcarryanIDPorattachanacceptableEnglishtranslationtotheirnationaldriverlicenses.TheIDPistranslatedintotheofficiallanguagesoftheUnitedNations(including English) and is useful in traffic emergencies. Non-citizens mustobtaintheIDPintheirnativecountrybeforetravelingtotheUnitedStates.

NewJerseymotoristswhotraveltoforeigncountriesmayobtainanIDPap-plicationthroughtheirlocalAAAclub.Visitwww.aaa.com/vacation/idpc.html formoreinformation.

Note: A motorist must carry a valid driver license. Although it is an officialdocument, the IDP cannot replace a driver license, but it can be used inconjunction with the license to provide an additional source of motoristidentificationandspanforeignlanguagebarriers.

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nOn-DRIVER IDAnindividual,17yearsofageorolder,whodoesnotpossessavaliddriverlicensemayapplyforanon-driveridentificationcard.Toobtainanidentificationcard,theindividualmustshowproofofageandprovide6PointsofIDVerificationandproofthathis/herpresenceinthiscountryisauthorizedunderfederallaw.Thecostis$24.Thenon-driverIDmustbesurrenderediftheindividualappliesforandreceivesaNewJerseydriverlicense.(N.J.S.A.39:3-29.2to39:3-29.8)

HEaRInG-IMPaIRED DESIGnaTIOnA special driver license for deaf or hearing-impaired motorists (41 dB lossormore) isprovidedbytheMVC.Toobtainthis license,which isdesignatedwith the international symbol of the deaf or a numerical code, a motoristmustcompleteanapplication,availableatanyMVCagency.Verificationbyaphysicianoraudiologistisrequired.(N.J.S.A.39:3-11a)

COMMERCIal DRIVER lICEnSE (CDl)Therearethreeclassesofacommerciallicense;A,B,andC.However,noonecanapplyfortheselicensesuntilhe/sheisinpossessionofavalidbasicClassDNewJerseydriverlicenseorhe/shepossessesavalidout-of-stateCDL.

Class A:Licenseisnecessaryfortheoperationoftractortrailersoranytruckortrailerwithagrosscombinationweightrating(GCWR)of26,001poundsormore, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle beingtowedismorethan10,000pounds.TheClassAlicensealsoallowsthemotoristtooperateallvehiclesintheclassB,CandDcategories,providedthemotoristhasqualifiedforalltheproperextraendorsements.Seethechartonpage25.

Class B:LicenseisnecessaryfortheoperationofanyvehiclewithaGVWRof26,001poundsormore:

• Avehiclewithagrossvehicleweightratingof26,001poundsormoretowingatrailerwithagrossvehicleweightratingoflessthan10,000pounds

• Abuswithagrossvehicleweightratingof26,001poundsormoredesigned totransport16ormorepassengers,includingthedriver

AClassB licenseallows themotorist tooperateall vehicles in theClassCandDcategories,providedthemotoristhasqualifiedforalltheproperextraendorsements.


Class C:LicenseisnecessaryforanyvehiclewithaGVWRoflessthan26,001pounds,usedandplacardedtotransporthazardousmaterial:

• Anybus,includingschoolbuses,designedtocarry16passengersormore,includingthemotorist,andwithaGVWRoflessthan26,001poundsandallschoolvehiclesdesignedfor15passengersorfewer,includingthemotorist

• Anybusorothervehicledesignedtotransport8to15passengers,includingthemotorist,whichisusedforhire

commerciAL Driver exemPtionsTaxi drivers, ride-sharing van drivers, funeral procession drivers, operatorsof rescue, first-aid squad or firefighter apparatus, farmers hauling their ownproductsandequipmentwithin150milesoftheirfarms,non-civilianoperatorsofmilitaryequipmentandoperatorsofconstructionequipmentnotdesignedforoperationonpublicroadsareexemptandneednotapplyforacommercialdriverlicense.Operatorsofrecreationalvehiclesarealsoexempt,providedthevehicleisbeingoperatedonlyforpersonaluse.(N.J.S.A.39:3-10k,39:3-10.11)

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commerciAL License restrictionsNumberedrestrictions,suchascorrective lenses,arenotedonallcommerciallicenses.Anexampleofaspecialrestrictiononacommercial licenseis“L”forairbrakes.Thismeansthemotoristmaynotoperateavehicleequippedwithairbrakes,ifdesignatedonthelicense.

commerciAL Driver mAnuALFormoreinformationoncommercialmotorvehiclelicensing,refertotheMVC’sCommercialDriverManual.AllCDL testsarebasedon informationcontainedin themanual.Togetacopy,visitanyMVCagencyor regionalservicecenterorview/requestitonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.Manualsmayalsobeobtainedbycalling(888) 486-3339toll-freeinNewJerseyor(609) 292-6500fromoutofstate.

commerciAL License enDorsementsMostcommercialdriverswillneedtoobtainatleastonespecialendorsement.Anexampleofanendorsementonacommerciallicenseis“H”forhazardousmaterials,whichmeansthatthemotoristmaylegallytransporthazardousmaterials.

CoDe VehICLe enDoRseMent sPeCIAL RequIReMent

T DoubleandTripleTrailer

Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclespullingtwoorthreetrailers

Requiresaknowledgetest.ClassAlicenserequiredtooperatethistypeofvehicle

P Passenger Neededbyoperatorsofbusesorsimilarvehiclesusedtotransportpassengers

Requiresaroadtest.Otherspecialrequirementsarenecessary(seeCDLManual)

S SchoolBus Neededbyallschoolbusdrivers

Requiresaknowledgeandroadtest.Motoristswhoholdan“S”endorsementwillalsohavetotestfora“P”endorsement.Botharerequiredtooperateaschoolbus

N TankerVehicle

Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclesusedtotransportliquidsorgasinbulk

Requiresaknowledgetest.

H HazardousMaterials

Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclesusedtotransporthazardousmaterials

Requiresaknowledgetestandmayrequirearoadtest.Mustbetrainedandretestedeverytwoyears.SeetheFederalMotorCarrierSafetyAdministrationforrequirements(www.fmcsa.dot.gov)


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Requirements for basic Driver licenseRoad TestsReasons for Rejection

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New Jersey Driver Testing

REquIREMEnTS fOR a baSIC DRIVER lICEnSE6 Point iD verificAtionAllapplicantsforaNewJerseydriverlicensemusthaveallrequireddocumentstosatisfythe6PointIDVerification.

vision testAvisionscreeningisrequiredforallmotorists.TheMVCmayreferapplicantswithimpairedvisiontoaphysician.

KnowLeDGe testTheknowledgetestconsistsof50questions,plusasurveyquestionaboutorgandonation.TheMVCofferstheknowledgetestinEnglishandtheseforeignlanguages:Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Russian andSpanish.Iftheapplicantcannotreadinanylanguage,anoraltestthatisconductedinEnglishorSpanishmaybearranged.Iftheapplicantisunabletotakeanoralorwrittentestinthelanguagesprovidedorifhe/sheishearingimpaired,he/shemayuseanMVC-approvedinterpreter,accordingtothefollowingguidelines.

interPretersAnapprovedforeignlanguageinterpreteris:

• Afull-timefacultymemberofacollegeoruniversityintheUnitedStates,whodisplaysacurrentidentificationcardissuedbythatcollegeoruniversity

• Apriest,minister,rabbiorotherreligiousleaderofarecognizedorganization,whodisplayscredentialsshowinghis/herassociationinsuchanorganization

• AnindividuallistedontheN.J.AdministrativeOfficeoftheCourts(Language ServicesSection)RegistryofInterpretersandAgencies

Anapprovedhearing-impairedinterpreteris:• AninterpretercertifiedbytheNationalRegistryofInterpretersfortheDeaf

andlistedwiththeNewJerseyDivisionoftheDeaf

• AninterpreterwhohasbeenevaluatedbytheDivisionoftheDeafandisontheapprovedlistofprofessionalinterpreters

The MVC will pay the interpreter fees for hearing-impaired applicants. Contactany Driver Testing Center for more information about approved interpreters orfeepayments.

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test requirements

out-of-stAte AnD out-of country APPLicAntsApplicantswhowishtotransferavalidout-of-statelicensearerequiredtotakea vision screening. Out-of-state applicants between 17 and 18 years of agewhopossessavalidout-of-statelicensewillbegivenaprobationarylicenseforaperiodofoneyearandmustcomplywithGDLrequirementsandrestrictions.

All out-of-country applicants must pass the knowledge test and a visionscreeningandmaybe required topassa road test.Test resultsare valid fortwoyears.

Note:ApplicantsfromU.S.possessionsandterritoriesareconsideredoutofcountry.

vision rechecKPeriodically, theMVCmayrequireavisionrecheckofaNewJerseymotorist.Licenserenewalwillbepermitteduponpassingthevisionscreening.

heALth questionsIftheapplicanthasahealthproblem,amedicalreviewmaybenecessary.Theexaminerwilldiscussthiswiththeapplicant.

sCReenIng tests MInIMuM RequIReMents

EYESIGHT Basic license applicants: 20/50 vision with orwithoutcorrectivelenses.Forsightinoneeyeonly,thateyemustmeetthe20/50ruleandtheapplicantmusthavedocumentationsignedbyalicensedphysician.Cdl license applicants: 20/40 vision with orwithoutcorrective lenses inbotheyes.Mustbeabletodistinguishamongred,greenandamberlights.

WRITTEN 80 percent, or 40 of the 50 questions, must have correctanswers.

HEALTH Informexaminerofhealthproblems.Underfederallaw,commercial drivers must carry a medical examiner’sfitness statement and have it renewed every twoyears.

ROaD TESTAfter an applicant passes the knowledge test and vision screening and, ifapplicable, an approved behind-the-wheel course, the MVC will validate his/her permit so that he/she can practice. GDL permit holders under 21 yearsof age must have a minimum of six months supervised practice driving priortoa road testappointment.GDLpermitholders,21yearsoldandover,musthaveaminimumofthreemonthssupervisedpracticedrivingpriortoaroadtestappointment.Tomakeanappointmentforaninitialroadtestoraretest,visitanyDriverTestingCenterorscheduleonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.Appointmentsmaynotbemadebyphone.

test vehicLe requirementsFor the road test, an applicant must have a vehicle with a valid inspectionsticker, a valid registration document and a valid insurance ID card for thatvehicle(unlesscoveredbyBPUorfederalDOTregulations).Thevehiclemaynothaveanyobstructionsorconsolesthatpreventtheexaminerfromreachingthefootorparkingbrakes.Theapplicantmustalsohaveavalidpermitandbeaccompaniedbyalicenseddriver.Theaccompanyingdrivermustholdalicensetooperatethetypeofvehicleforwhichtheapplicanthasapermit(exceptforamoped).

Vehiclesregisteredoutofstatemustcomplywithmotorist’shomestate’slawswithregardtoinsuranceidentification

AccomPAnyinG Driver requirementsAn applicant may drive a properly registered vehicle to the road test area.However,alicenseddrivermustremaininthevehiclewiththeapplicantatalltimes.Avehiclemaynotbemoved,evenintheroadtestline,withoutalicenseddriver inthevehicle. If theaccompanyingmotorist is licensed inastateotherthanNewJersey, or has less than three yearsof drivingexperience, he/shemustdrivethevehicletotheroadtestarea.TheMVCdoesnotsupplyvehiclesforroadtests.

eLements of the roAD testOn the actual road test, an MVC examiner will ride with the applicant whenhe/shedrivesinanoff-roadtestareaoronapublicroadcourse.Thepurposeoftheroadtestistomakesurethattheapplicantunderstandstherulesoftheroadandcandrivesafely.Iftheapplicant’svehiclehasastandardtransmission,theexaminerwillasktheapplicanttodemonstratehis/herabilitytocorrectlyshiftgears.

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During the basic road test, the examiner may test the applicant on thefollowingitems:

test IteM PAge

Drivinginreverse 49

Followingothervehicles 84

Nearingcorners,intersections 62

Parking(parallel) 52

Sittingproperly 38

Startingavehicle 44,45

Steeringproperly 46,47

Stoppingatsigns 71

Stoppingsmoothly 48

Turning 50,68,69

Turningaround 51

Usingthehorn 43

Yieldingright-of-way 61

Ifanapplicantpassestheroadtest,theexaminerwillissueanauthorizationforlicensing.Thepermit,authorizationand6PointsofIDVerificationmustbetakentoamotorvehicleagencytoobtainthedigitaldriverlicense(DDL).

TheMVCwilllicenseasuccessfulapplicantforaClassDbasicdriverlicenseorClassEmotorcyclelicenseasaprobationarydriveriftheapplicanthasneverbeenlicensedtodriveamotorvehicleinthisoranyotherstate.TheMVCwillmonitorhis/herdrivinghabitsfortwoyears.

Ifanapplicantfailstheroadtest,he/shemustwaitatleasttwoweeksbeforetakingthetestagain.Toreschedulethetest,gotoanyDriverTestingCenterinpersonorscheduleonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.Afterseveralfailures,theMVCmayrequireanapplicanttowaitsixmonthsbeforeretakingtheroadtest.

REaSOnS fOR REJECTIOnMostapplicantsbelievethattheirdrivingperformanceistheonlycriteriontheexaminerusestogradetheirroadtest.However,thevehiclemaybethecauseoffailure.Somelicenseapplicantsmaynothavetheopportunitytotakeaninitialroadtestbecauseanexaminerconsidersthevehicleunsuitableorunsafeforthetest.

HerearesomeofthemorecommonreasonstheMVCrejectsroadtestvehicles:• Improper,expiredornoinspectionsticker

• Lackofexamineraccesstofootbrakeorparkingbrake

• Anydefectorconditionthataffectsthesafeoperationofthetestvehicle,suchasbutnotlimitedto:

–Poorbrakes(pedalmustnotfadeorgotothefloorboard)–Parkingbrakedoesn’twork–Unsafetires(smooth,cut,badlyworn)–Vehicleinteriorisnotinreasonablycleancondition–Vehiclefailedinspection,andmotoristdoesnotbringtheVehicle

InspectionReportissuedbytheinspectionstationtoroadtestarea–Vehiclenotequippedwithradialtiresorsnowtiresorchainswhen

roadissnowcovered–Fastengineidle(cannotjudgespeedcontrol)–Missingseatbelts(seatbeltsarerequiredonallvehicles

manufacturedafterJuly1,1966)

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Additionalitemsformotorcycleandmopedtestsonly:• Lackofequipmentrequiredbystateregulations

• Nohelmet

• Unapprovedgogglesorfaceshield

• Nobellorhorn(butnotasirenorwhistle)thatcanbeheard100feetaway

See motorcycle section or moped manual for more specific information.

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SteeringStopping DistancesProper brakingDriving SignalsDriving in ReverseTurning Parking

46474849495051

Driver Responsibility

buckle up – new Jersey’s Seat belt lawCar SeatsChild Restraint lawair bagsCar ConditionStarting a Parked Car

383940404244

SafedrivingistheresponsibilityofallindividualswhooperateavehicleonNewJerseyroads.Therulesoftheroadmustbeobeyedatall timesandlawsmustbestrictlyfollowed.Amotoristmustensurethesafetyofallpassengerswhoareridinginhis/hervehicleandbemindfuloftheothermotoristswhosharetheroadeachday.

buCklE uP – nEw JERSEy’S SEaT bElT lawTheNewJerseyseatbelt lawrequiresall front-seatoccupantsofpassengervehiclesoperatedinNewJerseytowearaseatbelt.Themotoristisresponsibleforallpassengersunder18yearsofage.Front-seatpassengers18yearsofage and over are responsible for themselves. Motorists with GDL permits orprobationary licenses must use seat belts. Additionally, they must require allpassengersseatedanywhereinthevehicletouseseatbelts.(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2f,39:3-13.2a,39:3-13.4)

New Jersey’s seat belt law requires the motorist, front-seat passenger andchildrenunder18yearsoldtobebelted(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2f).Non-complianceisaprimaryoffense.Apoliceofficercanstopamotoristsolelyforaviolationoftheseatbelt law.Thelawalsoexpandsthedefinitionofpassengervehicletoincludevans,pickuptrucksandutilityvehicles.Underasecondarylaw,allbackseatoccupants,18yearsofageandolder,arerequiredtobuckleup.Unbuckledback seat passengers can be issued a summons when the vehicle they areridinginisstoppedforanotherviolation.

TheexemptionsareanypassengervehiclemanufacturedbeforeJuly1,1966,apassengervehiclethatisnotrequiredtobeequippedwithseatbeltsystemsunder federal law and a physical or medical reason, verified in writing by alicensedphysician,thatmakesthemotoristorpassengerunabletowearaseatbelt.(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2g)

Seat belts can save a life and improve a motorist’s chances of surviving acrashby60percent.Amotorist’schancesofsurvivingacollisionarethreetofour timesbetter if he/she iswearingbotha seatbelt anda shoulder strap.Fastening a seat belt takes only three seconds and reduces the chances ofdeathorseriousinjury.Seatbeltshelpinmanyways,forexample:

•Theykeepmotoristsandpassengersfrombeingthrownfromthevehicleinacollision.Ifamotorist/passengerisheldinplace,anyinjurymaybelesssevere.

•Theyslowabodydownwiththevehicle.Ifavehiclehitssomething,thevehiclestops,butthepersonkeepsgoingatthesamespeedthatthe

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vehiclewasmoving.Hittingthedashboardorwindshieldat30mphislikefallingfromthetopofathree-storybuilding.

•Theykeepamotorist/passengerfromslidingontheseatduringsudden

stopsandturns.Beltsandstrapsalsokeepamotoristinpositionsohe/shecancontrolthevehicle.

TIPS fOR SEaT BELT uSE• Buckleupwithbothlapandshoulderbeltsoneverytrip.(Airbagsare

supplementalprotectiondevices.)

• Wearthelapbeltundertheabdomenandlowacrossthehips.Theshoulderportionshouldcomeoverthecollarbone,awayfromtheneck,andcrossoverthebreastbone.Theshoulderbeltinmostnewvehiclescanbeadjustedonthesidepillartoimprovefit.

• Knowhowtoadjusttheseatbeltsandhowtoreleasethemifmotorists/passengershavetoquicklygetoutofthevehicle.

• Buckleupifridinginthebackseat;usecenterseatbeltsifthoseseatsareused.Seatbeltshelppreventridersfromfallingforward.

• Neverputmorethanonepersoninonebelt.

CaR SEaTSTrafficaccidentsarealeadingkillerofchildren.Whenridinginavehicle,childrenshouldbeheldinplacebyarestraintsystemthatmeetsallFederalMotorVehicleSafetyStandards.RefertotheparagraphonChildRestraintLaw.

AllchildrestraintsystemsbuiltsinceJanuary1,1981,mustbedesignedtopasstoughsafetytests.Theseseatscarryalabelthatgivesthedateofmanufactureandreads:“ThischildrestraintsystemconformstoallapplicableFederalMotorVehicleSafetyStandards.”

Therearemanytypesandstylesofcarseats.Aninfantcarseatwillprotectababyupto20poundsand26inchesandmustbeplacedinthevehiclefacingtherear.Aconvertiblecarseatisalargerseatthatcanbeusedforaninfantoratoddlerofupto40poundsand40inchesinheight.Theseatcanbeadjustedtoarecliningpositionandplacedinthevehiclefacingbackwardsforababy.Whenthebabyweighsatleast17poundsandcansitupwellwithouthelp,theseatcanbeadjustedtoanuprightpositionandplacedinthevehiclefacingforward.

Note:Itispreferredthatwheneverpossible,childcarsafetyseatsbeplacedinthebackseat.However,ifamotoristisridingwithanewinfantandthevehicledoesnothaveabackseat,move the frontseatas farbackaspossible fromthedashboardandmakesurethechildisbuckledproperlyintheappropriaterestraint forhis/herheight andweight.Neverplace rear-facing infant safetyseatsinthefrontseatofavehiclewithafrontpassenger-sideairbag.

Whileaconvertibleseatisdesignedtobeusedfacingforwardonceachildhasreachedatleast17pounds,aninfantseatmustneverbefacedforward.Todosowouldbeverydangerous.Alwayscheckthelabelonacarseattofindoutthesizeandweightofthechildtheseatisdesignedtoprotect.

Usingthecarseateverytimeachildridesinthevehicle-andusingitcorrectlyeach time - is very important for the safety of the child. Always read theinstructions that come with the seat and follow them very carefully. Correctuseofthecarseatisthebestprotectionamotoristcanofferachild.Formoreinformationonchildcarseats,contacttheDivisionofHighwayTrafficSafetyat(800) 422-3750 orvisitwww.njsaferoads.com.

CHIlD RESTRaInT lawTheNewJerseychildpassengersafetylaw(N.J.S.A39:3-76.2a)states:

• Childrenuptoageeightoraweightof80poundsmustrideinafederallyapproved safety or booster seat in the rear seat of the vehicle. If thereisnorearseat,thechildmustsit inthefrontseatsecuredbyasafetyorboosterseat.

• Childrenunderageeightandover80poundsmustbeinarearseatanduseaseatbelt.Ifthereisnorearseat,thechildmustbeproperlybeltedinthefrontseat.

• Failuretocomplywiththislawcouldmeana$54fineandcourtcosts.

aIR baGSAirbagsarestandardequipmentinalmostallnewvehiclesandaredesignedtosupplementseatbeltsinfrontalcrashes.Federalsafetystandardsrequiredthatmanufacturersequipallnewpassengercarsandlighttruckswithairbagsby 1999. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,statisticsshowthatbetween1986and2000,frontairbagssavedthelivesof5,303front-seatriders.

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Airbags inflateat speedsofup to200mph toprotect adults in a front-endcollision.Anaverage-sizedadultwhoiscorrectlybeltedisnotlikelytocomeincontactwiththeairbaguntilitisfullyinflated.

Whenairbagsarecombinedwithlap/shoulderseatbelts,theyhavesavedmanyadult livesandpreventedmanyinjuriesinmotorvehiclecrashes.However,airbagscouldseriouslyinjureorkillchildrenwhoaresittinginthefrontseat.

In1995,theNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministration(NHTSA)allowedcutoffswitchesinpickuptrucks,sportscarsandautoswithnobackseat.InJan-uary1998,itallowedrepairshopsanddealerstoinstalltheswitchesinvehiclesaftertheappropriateapplicationwasmadeforpeopleinthesecategories:

• driver-and passenger-side air bags:Forindividualswithmedicalconditionswhentherisksofadeployingairbagexceedtherisksofimpactingthesteeringwheel,dashboardorwindshield.

• driver-side air bags only: Forindividualswhocannotproperlyoperate

thevehicleandkeepatleast10inchesbetweenthecenterofthesteeringwheelandthecenterofthebreastbone.

• passenger-side air bags only:Forindividualswhomustplaceinfantsinthefrontseatbecausethevehiclehasnorearseat(e.g.,apickuptruck)ortherearseatistoosmalltoholdthechild’srear-facingseat,orthemotoristmustmonitorthechild’smedicalcondition;forindividualswhomustplacechildren,1to12yearsold,inthefrontseatbecausethevehiclehasnorearseat,orbecausetheindividualmusttransportmorechildrenthancanbeseatedintherearseat,orbecausethemotoristmustmonitorthechild’smedicalcondition.

For more information about an air bag on-off switch or for an application torequest one, call NHTSA’s toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393.Informationisalsoavailableonlineatwww.nhtsa.gov.

Childrenofanyagearesafestwhentheyarebeltedproperlyinthebackseatofavehicle,especiallywhenthevehicleisequippedwithapassenger-sideairbag.Othersafetypointsare:

• Alwaysputaninfantinarear-facinginfantchildsafetyseatinthebackseatofavehiclewithairbags.

• Alwaysbesurethatchildren12yearsoldandyoungerrideinthebackseatofthevehicle.

• Alwaysmakesureeveryoneisbuckledup.

Amotoristcan tell ifhis/hervehiclehasanairbagby thewords “airbag”orthe letters“SRS”(supplementalrestraintsystem)or“SIR”(supplementalinflatablerestraint)onthesteeringwheelanddashboardpanel.Manufacturersalsomaymarkthesunvisorsorthesidesoftheopendoorframewithwarninglabelsorenterawarninginthevehicleowner’smanual.

CaR COnDITIOnAmotoristshouldalwayscheck theconditionof thevehiclebeforedriving it.If the itemsbelowarenotworkingproperly, itmeansthevehicleneedstoberepaired.

bAcKuP LiGhtsWhendrivinginreverse,backuplightsshouldbeon.Thesemustbecheckedtomakesuretheyareinworkingorder.

Note:ItisagainstNewJerseylaw(N.J.S.A39:3-52)tohaveanybackuplightsonwhileavehicleismovingforward.

brAKesA motorist should be able to brake smoothly and quickly. If the vehicle pullstoonesidewhenitstopsoramotoristfeelsatautpedalorhearsanunusualsquealingorgrinding,thebrakesmustbechecked.Withconventionaldiscanddrum brakes, amotorist shouldpump themgently after driving throughwatertotestthemanddrythemout. Ifthebrakesarehithard,theycouldlockup.Amotoristshouldbeabletostopwithin25feetat20mph.Thiscanbetriedinanemptyparkinglot.Chalkmarkscanbemadeonthesurfacetoseeifthevehiclecanstopwithinthatdistance.

Ifavehiclehasanantilockbrakingsystem(ABS),thebrakescanbetestedbyapplyingsteadypressuretothebrakepedal.AmotoristshouldneverpumpanABSor jerkthesteeringwheelwhenbraking.Onverysoftsurfaces,suchasloosegravelorunpackedsnow,anABSsystemmayactuallylengthenstoppingdistance. In wet or slippery conditions, a motorist should still drive carefully,always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and maintain a speedconsistentwiththeroadconditions.

brAKe LiGhtsIfavehicle’sbrakelightsarenotworking,someonemaycrashintoitfromtheback.Amotoristshouldhavesomeonehelptocheckthebrakelights.Replacebrokenlightcovers.Theymaycauseaglarethataffectsthemotoristinback.

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heADLiGhtsBright and dim lights must work and be in line. A motorist can check themagainstthegaragewalloronparkedvehicles.Lightsshouldbekeptclean. Ifothermotoristsflash their lightswhileamotorist’s lightsareon lowbeam, itcouldmeanthatthelightsareoutofline.

hornAhornshouldnotbeoverused,butamotoristshouldcheck itoftentomakesureitworks.Usethehorntosignalwhenpassingorwhencomingoutofablindalley,curveordriveway.

steerinGOnstraight level roadsavehicleshouldholdastraightcourse.Thefrontendshouldnotvibrate(shimmy).Thesteeringshouldrespondtoamotorist’sturnswithouttoomuchplayinthesteeringwheel.

tAiL LiGhtsAlwayskeeptailandsidelightsinworkingorder.Theysignalothermotoristsinthedarkandpreventaccidents.

tiresIfamotoristfeelsorhearsanyunusualthumpingwhiledriving,he/sheshouldcheck the tires.Bumps,cutsorbad treadcancauseblowouts.Tirepressureshouldbecheckedoften,especiallywhentiresarecold.Amotoristshouldchecktheowner’smanualtodeterminepropertirepressureorshouldaskforadviceataservicestation.Properly inflatedtiressavemoneyinfuelconsumption.Avehicleshouldnotbedrivenwith tires thathave less than1/16 inchof tread(abouttheedgeofadime).Toholdontotheroadproperly,tiresmustmatch(donotmixradialswithothertiretypes)andmusthaveenoughtread.

turn siGnALsAmotoristshouldbeabletoheartheclickingandseethelightedarrowsflashon thedashboard. If theydonotwork, the signalsmustbefixedas soonaspossible.Meanwhile,amotoristshouldusehandsignals.

winDshieLDCracksorchipsinawindshieldcouldcauseittobreak;itshouldbereplaced.A windshield should be clean at all times, inside and out. Windshield wipersshouldalwayswork.Iftheycomewithwashers,amotoristcanusenon-freezingspraytostopicing.NewJerseylawsprohibitadd-ontintingonwindshieldsandfrontsidewindows.

snow/ice Statelaw(N.J.S.A39:4-77.1)requiresamotoristtoremovesnowor icefroma vehiclebeforedriving it. If snowor icedislodges fromamoving vehicle, itcouldstrikeanothervehicleorpedestrian,causinginjuryorpropertydamage.Amotoristisrequiredtomakeallreasonableeffortstoremoveaccumulatediceorsnowfromtheexposedsurfacesofhisorhermotorvehiclepriortodrivingit,includingthehood,trunk,roofandwindshield.Anypersonwhoviolatesthislawissubjecttofinesof$25to$75,regardlessofwhetheranysnoworiceisdislodgedfromvehicle.

STaRTInG a PaRkED CaRBefore getting into a vehicle, look behind it and in front of it. There are blindspots once a motorist is behind the wheel. Children may be there. There alsomay be bottles, cans, bicycles or other things that cannot be seen from themotorist’sseat.

stArtinG checKList• Allwindowsshouldbecleanandnothingshouldblockamotorist’svision.

• Theseatmustbeadjustedsoamotoristcanreachallpedalsandcontrolseasily.(Formostmotorists,theseatmaybeadjustedsohe/sheissittinganarm’slengthfromsteeringwheel).

• Insideandoutsiderearviewmirrorsshouldbeadjusted.

• Seatbeltsandshoulderharnessesshouldbefastenedsothattheyarefirmandcomfortable.

• Thevehicleshouldbeinparkorneutralgearandtheparkingbrakeshouldbeset.

• Doorsshouldbelocked.

Amotoristshouldkeepgoodposturewhiledriving.Theseatshouldbeadjustedsothatthemotoristcanreachthefootpedalseasily.Themotoristshouldbecomfortablebehindthewheel.He/sheshouldnothavetostraintoreachthegear shift levers, turn signals or dashboard controls. A motorist is properlypositionedwhenhe/shecanseeclearlyandcanglancetotherear.

Ifamotoristwearsglasses,he/sheshouldadjustthem.Morethan95percentof the information a motorist needs is visual. To fight glare at night, coloredlensesshouldbeavoidedastheydistortcolor.Anti-reflectivecoatingsshouldbeusedon lenses.Thiswill helpeliminate internal reflections ineyeglassesandmayhelpnightdriving.Amotoristshouldhaveaneyecheckupeverytwo

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AREA OF FORWARD VISION

BLIND AREABLIND AREA

AREA OF REARVIEW

MIRROR VISION

LEFTSIDE

MIRROR

RIGHTSIDE

MIRROR

Blind Spots

BVMN_blindspots_110907

years.Asamotoristages,visualclaritydeclinesandperipheralvisionbecomeslessdistinct.Forexample,a60-year-oldperceiveslightaboutathirdaswellasa20-year-old.

Insideandoutsidemirrorsshouldbeadjustedtoreduceblindspots.Theseareareaswhereamotoristcannotseebehindhis/hervehicle(onbothsides)throughthemirror.Amotoristcancheckthisbyturninghis/herhead.Theoutsidemirrorshouldbeadjustedsothatthemotoristcanseethetipofthedriver-sidefrontdoorhandleinthelowerrightofthemirror.Thiswillallowthemotoristtoseepartofthelanesoftraffictotheleftandrearofthevehicle.

Afterstartingtheengine,amotoristshouldmakesurehis/herpathisclearbyturning and looking back. A motorist should not depend on rearview mirrors.A motorist must also be sure to check for pedestrians and less conspicuousvehicles,suchasbicyclesandmopeds.Amotoristshouldgivethepropersignalanddrivewithcaution.

Theillustrationbelowshowsblindspotswhiledriving.

Steering

BDMN_steering_110907

10

1112

1

2

9 3

Whenontheroad,amotoristcancheckthevehicle’smirrorsbylettingavehiclepassontheleft.Asthepassingvehicledisappearsfromtheinsiderearviewmirror,amotoristshouldbeabletoseeitsfrontbumperintheoutsiderearviewmirror.

iDLinG your vehicLeNewJerseylawrequiresallmotoriststorestrictvehicleidlingtothreeminutesorless(N.J.A.C.7:27).

Idlingmorethanthreeminutesisunnecessaryandharmfultoyourvehicleandyourhealth.Vehicleandpropertyownersfacefinesof$250to$1,000foreachviolationofthislaw.

Therearesomespecificsituationsinwhichavehiclemayidleforanextendedtime,suchaswhenstuckintraffic,oratdrive-thruestablishments.Seewww.StopTheSoot.orgforacompletelistingofexemptions.

Sodon’tforget:IdlingStinks,andit’sagainstthelaw--turnthekeyandbeidlefree!

STEERInG

hAnD PositionAmotorist’sgriponthesteeringwheelisimportant.Thesteeringwheelcanbethoughtofasthefaceofaclock.Fornormaldriving,amotoristshouldgripthesteeringwheelbytheoutsiderimatthe9and3o’clockpositions,keepinghis/herthumbalongthefaceofthewheel.Grippingthesteeringwheelasdescribeddiminishes the risk of hand, wrist or arm injury if the air bag is deployed. Amotoristshouldneverturnthewheelwhilegrippingitfromtheinsideoftherim,handfacinginward.Thesteeringwheelshouldbeheldfirmlybutnottootight,assteadyaspossibleasthevehicle’sspeedincreases.Bothhandsshouldbe

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keptonthewheelatalltimes,exceptwhenshiftinggearsorgivinghandsignals.

Themotoristshouldkeepthevehicleinthecenterofthelanethatitistraveling.Onatwo-laneroadwithtrafficcomingtowardthevehicle,themotoristshouldkeeptotheright.Onceamotoristfeelshowthevehiclereactstosteering,he/shewillbereadytopracticeturning,parkingandothermovements.

It takespracticetogetthefeelofsteering. If thevehiclehasantilockbrakes(ABS),themotoristshouldneverviolentlyjerkthesteeringwheelwhilebraking.(Seepage42,“Brakes”)

hAnD-over-hAnD steerinGHand-over-handsteeringpermitsamotoristtomakesteeringadjustmentsrangingfromveryminoruptoahalfturnofthewheel,whilekeepingbothhandsonthewheel.Ifturningthroughaslightcurve,bothhandswilltypicallyretaintheiroriginalgriponthewheel,makingonlyslightfingerorwristadjustmentsasnecessarytomaintainthepathoftravel.However,whenmovingthroughaturn,thehandsmaymoveasmuchas165degrees. Themotorist initiates the turnbypushing thewheelupfromthe9or3o’clockpositiontoward12o’clock,andtheoppositehandcrossesoveranddowntothe9or3o’clockposition,asappropriatetoprovideadditionalinputortostabilizesteering.Theoriginalhandthenreturnstotheoriginalstartpositionof9or3o’clock.Theprocessisreversedtoreturntoastraightpath,or thewheelcanbeallowed toslip through thefingers (controlledslipping) tostraightenwhencomingoutofaturn,whilebothhandsarealwaysonthewheeltomakeadjustmentsasnecessary.Hand-over-handsteeringisparticularlywell-suitedforprecisionmaneuvers,steering throughcurves, intersectionentryandexit,andskidrecovery.

STOPPInG DISTanCESThereisnosimplewaytotellexactlyhowlongitwilltakeavehicletostopatacertainspeed.Stoppingdistancedependson:

• Motoristreactiontime

• Weatherandroadconditions

• Vehicleweight

• Brakeconditions

• Conditionandtypeoftires

• Roadwayconditions

• Speed

Onepointissure:Thefasteravehicleisgoing,thelongeritwilltakeittostop.Whenamotoristmuststopquickly,speedcanbethedifferencebetweenlifeanddeath.

stoPPinG DistAnces on Dry surfAces for PAssenGers

PROPER bRakInGTheuseofbrakesmayseemsimple,butitisnot.Amotoristshouldknowthetypeofbrakingsystemthathis/hervehicleuses.Itcouldbeaconventionaldrumanddiscbrakesystemoranantilockbrakingsystem(ABS).Whetherthevehicleisfront-orrear-wheeldrivedoesnotdetermineproperbraking.

Manynewmotoristsmakethecommonmistakeofslammingthebrakepedal,evenifthereisnoemergency.Thevehiclewilljerktoastopquicklyandwearoutbrakesandtires.Steady,gentlepressureshouldbeappliedtothebraketobringthevehicletoacontrolledstop.WithanABS,amotoristshouldnotpumpthebrakesorviolentlyjerkthewheel.AnABS-equippedvehiclemaygooutofcontrolatonly35mphifamotoristviolentlyjerksthesteeringwheelandbrake,evenondrypavement.NewmotoristsshouldpracticehardbrakingandsteeringinanemptyparkinglotorsimilaropenspaceuntiltheyareaccustomedtotheABS.Amotoristshouldalwaysusehis/herrightfootforboththebrakeandthegaspedal. If thevehicle isequippedwithamanual transmission, the left footshouldbeusedfortheclutch.

Speed reaction distance Braking distance total

10 mph 11 ft 6 ft 17 ft

20 mph 22 ft 25 ft 47 ft

30 mph 33 ft 55 ft 88 ft

40 mph 44 ft 105 ft 149 ft

50 mph 55 ft 188 ft 243 ft

60 mph 66 ft 300 ft 366 ft

70 mph 77 ft 455 ft 532 ft

Basedonareactiontimeof3/4second,whichistypicalformostmotoristsundermosttrafficconditions.Seep.71formoreinformationonstopping,p.86forinformationaboutfollowingdistancesandp.90forinformationaboutstoppingatnight.

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Driver Signals

BDMN_driver_signals_110907

STOP

RIGHT TURN

LEFT TURN

DRIVInG SIGnalSA motorist should always give a proper signal whenturning,changinglanes,stoppingorslowingdown.Mostvehicleshaveturnsignalsandamotoristshouldalwaysuse them. A motorist should turn on the turn signal atleast100feetbeforeturningandbesuretocancelthesignal aftermakinga turn.Notdoingsocouldmisleadothermotorists.(N.J.S.A.39:4-126)

NewJerseylawrequiresamotoristtoknowthecorrecthandsignalsforstoppingandturning,whicharestandardinallstates.Togiveahandsignal,amotoristshouldputhis/herarmwelloutofthevehiclesothatitisvisibletoothermotorists.

• Stop or slowing down:handandarmdownward,palmfacingtotherear

• right turn:handandarmupward

• left turn:handandarmstraightout

Anothersignal is thehorn,which isawarningsignal. Itcalls attention to what the motorist is doing. Motoristsmaysoundthehornwhenpassinganothervehiclewhennot in a business or residential zone. Under normalconditions, the horn should be able to be heard for atleast 200 feet. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-69) Only emergencyvehiclesmayusesirens,whistlesorbells.

DRIVInG In REVERSEBeforedrivinginreverse,amotoristmustbesurethatthepathisclear.Thiscanbedonebyusingthemirrorsandturningtocheck.He/shemustbeverycarefulbecausetheviewtotherearislimited.Inreverse,turningthewheeltotherightwilldirectthevehicletotheright.Steeringtotheleftwilldirectthevehicletotheleft.Ifamotoristdoesnotturnthewheelwhileinreverse,thevehiclewillmovestraightbackward.

Todriveinreverse,amotorist’sheadandbodyshouldbeturnedtotherightuntilhe/shecanseeclearlythroughthebackwindowofthevehiclewithouttheuseofmirrors.Themotorist’srighthandandarmshouldbeplacedoverthebackofthefrontpassengerseat;thelefthandshouldgraspthetopofthesteeringwheel.

Thisisthepositionamotoristshouldbeintoreverseinastraightline,withsightseeingcorrectionmadeasneeded.Avehicleshouldbedrivenslowlyinreverse–typically,walkingspeed(2to4mph).Themotoristshouldnot turnforwarduntilthevehicleistotallystopped.

Ifamotoristmustturnthewheelwhilereversingotherthaninastraightline(e.g.parallelparking), twohandsmustbeonthewheeltosteer,whileamotorist’sheadandbodyisturnedtolookouttherearwindow.Palmingthewheelwithonehandwhileturninginreverseisdangerousandcanresultinfailingtheroadtest.Amotoristshouldalwaysrememberthatthefrontofthevehiclewillswingintheoppositedirectionofaturn.Avehicleshouldbedrivenslowlyinreverse.

Amotoristmustbeabletodriveinreverseinordertopasstheroadportionofthedrivingtest.He/shewillbeaskedtobackthevehicleabout100feetinastraightline,slowlyandsmoothly.

TuRnInG To make safe turns, a motorist should decide well in advance where he/shewantstoturn.Last-minuteturnscanbeunsafe.Statelawrequiresamotoristtogetintheproperlaneandsignalatleast100feetbeforemakinganyturn.Thefasterthetrafficismoving,thesooneramotoristshouldplanhis/herturn.Ifaturnismissed,amotoristshouldneverbackup.Itisbettertotakethenextturnthantoriskacollision.Beforeturning,amotoristshouldalways:

• Usethemirrorstolookbehindandtobothsidesforothervehicles(orpeople)toseeifitissafetoturn

• Checkforlessvisiblevehicles,suchasmotorcycles,bicyclesandmopeds

• Signalfirst(useturnsignalsorhandsignals)andthenmoveintotheproperlane.

• Slowdownbeforereachinganintersection

• Keepasteadyspeedandfollowpavementmarkings

• Alwaysstayinthesamelaneuntiltheturnisfinished

• Makesureturnsignalisturnedoffaftertheturniscompleted

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3 Point Turn

BDMN_3pt_turn_110907

32

1

the 3-Point turn (K turn)Whenturningavehiclearound,amotoristshouldstartfromtherightedgeoftheroad.Chooseasafespotwithgoodvisibilityinbothdirections.Ifthereisnoothertraffic,themotoristshouldsignalleftandmoveforwardslowlywhileturningthesteeringwheeltotheleft.Thevehicleshouldbestoppedseveralinchesfromtheleftcurborstreetedge.Themotoristshouldthensignalrightandbackslowlywhileturningthesteeringwheeltotheright,stoppingseveralinchesfromtherightcurborstreetedge.Themotoristshouldnextmovethevehicle forward, signaling left, while turning the steering wheel to the left.Finally, themotorist shouldstraighten thevehicle’swheelsas it faces in thedirectionhe/shewants togo.This isacomplete3-Point (orK)Turn.AnewmotoristwillberequiredtomakethisturnduringMVC’sroadtest.

PaRkInGWhenparking,amotoristshouldalwayssetthehandbrakeandputthevehicleinparkor,withamanualtransmission, inreverseorlowgear.Thereareseveralimportantstepsforamotoristtofollowwhenparkinghis/hervehicleonastreetwithacurb:

• When parking a vehicle facing downhill:Thehandbrakeshouldbesetandthevehicle’swheelsshouldbeturnedtowardthecurb.Thevehicleshouldbeinparkor,withamanualtransmission,inreverse.

• When parking a vehicle facing uphill: Thehandbrakeshouldbeset

andthevehicle’swheelsshouldbeturnedawayfromthecurb.Thevehicleshouldbeinparkor,withamanualtransmission,inlow.

AnGLe PArKinGAngleparkingisoftenusedinparkinglotsofshoppingcentersandsometimesatcurbs.

Amotoristshouldfollowtheseruleswhenenteringanangleparkingspacetohis/herright:

• Watchfortrafficbothaheadandbehind.

• Signalandbegintoslowdown.

• Makesuretherearofthevehiclewillcleartheparkedvehicles.

• Steersharplyintotheparkingspace,andthenstraightenthewheelscenteringthevehicleintheparkingspace.

• Shifttopark,orreverseifstandardtransmission,andapplytheparkingbrake.

Amotoristshouldfollowtheserulesbeforebackingoutofanangleparkingspace:• Walkaroundtomakesurenothingisinthevehicle’sway.

• Slowlymovethevehicleinreverseandbesurethatthelaneisclearoftraffic.

• Tapthehorntowarnnearbypedestrians.

• Whenabletoseepastthetopsofvehiclesparkednexttothevehicle,stopandlookagain.

• Lookbackandtoeachsideforothermotorists.

• Rememberthatthefrontofthevehiclewillswingoppositetothedirectionoftheturn.

• Backupslowlywhileturninguntilthevehicle’sleftfrontwheelpassestherearbumperofthevehicleparkedontheleft.

• Straightenthewheelsasthevehiclecomesbackintothelaneoftraffic.

PArALLeL PArKinGParallelparkingisthemostcommontypeofparkingoncitystreets.AmotoristmustbeabletoparallelparkavehicleinordertopasstheMVC’sroadtest.Thistakesthemostpracticeforanewmotorist.Amotoristshouldpracticeoften,inanemptyparkinglotatfirst.Flagsormarkers25feetapartmaybeusedtoshowwheretheothervehicleswouldbe.Ifamotoristhitsthesesigns,he/sheisnotreadyforparkingbetweenrealvehiclesandshouldkeeppracticing.Theslowerandsmootheramotoristbacksintoaparkingspace,theeasieritistopark.Toproperlyparallelpark,amotoristshould:

• Findaparkingspacethatislargeenoughtofitthevehicle.

• Signalforastopandsignaltotherighttoalertmotoriststhatthevehiclewillbackuptotheright.

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Parallel Parking

P R N D 3 2 1

P R N D 3 2 1

P R N D 3 2 1

6”P R N D 3 2 1

BDMN_parallelparking_110907

• Pullupalongside(parallel)abouttwotofourfeetfromthevehicleinfront.

• Turnandchecktoseethatthewayisclearbehindthevehiclebeforebackingup.

• Turnhis/herbodytolookouttherearwindowofthevehicle.Beginbackingupslowlyforabouttwofeetandturnthesteeringwheelallthewaytotheright.

• Whenthefrontofthevehiclehasclearedtherearbumperofthevehicleinfront,stopandchecktheangle.

• Makesuretherightbackwheelhasnothitthecurb.

• Turnthesteeringwheelallthewaytotheleftwhilebeginningtobackupslowly.

• Makesurethevehiclecanclearitsbackbumper.

• Whenthevehicleisinline,stop.Besurenottohitthevehicleinback.

• Turnthevehicle’swheelsstraight,anddrivetothecenteroftheparking space.Thevehicle’stiresshouldbenomorethansixinchesfromthecurb.

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Special Highway, Parkway and Turnpike ConditionsCurvesInterchangesTurning RegulationsStopping Regulationsusing HeadlightsParking RegulationsCellular Telephoneslittering

666767687074757777

safe Driving rules& Regulations

Speed ControlPassingkeeping to the Rightyielding the Right-of-wayPedestrians in a CrosswalkIntersectionsEntering Highways, Parkways and Turnpikes leaving Highways, Parkways and Turnpikes

5860616162626465

SPEED COnTROlExceedingthespeedlimitisacommoncontributingfactoroffatalandothertypesofaccidents.Amotoristmustalwaysobeythespeedlimit.Speedaffectsalmosteverythingthatcanhappenwhendriving.Agoodruleistokeepupwiththeflowoftrafficatanylegalspeed.Inordertomakesafeemergencystopswhennecessary,itisimportanttokeepenoughdistancefromsurroundingtraffic.NewJerseylawsetstopspeedlimitsforanygivenroad,street,highwayorfreeway.

25SpeedlimitS

25 mph School zones, businessor residential districts

35SpeedlimitS

35 mph Suburban business and residential districts

50SpeedlimitS

50 mph non-posted rural roadways

55SpeedlimitS

55 mph Certain state highways (as posted) and interstates

65SpeedlimitS

65 mph Certain interstate highways (as posted)

Motoristspaydoublefinesforexceedingthe65mphlimitby10milesperhouror more. Double fines also apply tomostothermovingviolationscommittedina65mphzone.(N.J.S.A.39:4-98.6)

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new Jersey sPeeD Limits (unLess otherwise PosteD) (N.J.S.A.39:4-98)Neverdrivefasterthanweather,roadorotherconditionssafelyallow,regardlessof the posted speed limit. A motorist should judge his/her speed control byexisting conditions. A motorist should slow down enough to be able to seeclearlyandstopquicklyintraffic.Failuretodosocanresultinamovingviolation.

Alwaysslowdown:• Onnarroworwindingroads

• Atintersectionsorrailroadcrossings

• Onhills

• Atsharporblindcurves

• Wheretherearepedestriansordrivinghazards

• Whentheroadiswetorslippery

Ifvehicleproblemspreventamotoristfromkeepingupwiththenormalflowoftraffic,he/sheshouldpullofftheroadandactivatehazardlights.

DrivinG too sLowLyAmotoristshouldalways try tokeepupwith thenormalflowof traffic,whilenotexceedingthepostedspeedlimit.Somecollisionsarecausedbydrivingtooslowlyandbackinguptraffic.Whenroadsurfacesandtrafficarenormal,NewJerseylawprohibitsblockingtrafficthroughslowdriving.

sAfe corriDors(N.J.S.A.39:4-203.5)Inanefforttoimprovehighwaysafety,NewJerseyinitiatedtheSafeCorridorsProgram,whichwassignedintolawinJuly2003.TheSafeCorridorslawdoublesfines on various state highways for a variety of driving offenses, includingspeedingandaggressivedriving.Highwaysaredesignatedassafebasedonstatisticsshowingcrashrates50percentoverthestaterateand1,000ormorecrashesreportedoverathree-yearperiod.TheCommissionerofTransportationhas the authority to designate highways as necessary, as well as to removethose that show improvedsafety levels. The law tookeffectonFebruary15,2004.AcurrentlistofSafeCorridorhighwaysisavailableontheNewJerseyDepartmentofTransportationWebsiteatwww.nj.gov/transportation.

Passing

PASS WHEN LINE IS BROKEN

BDMN_passing_110907

NO PASSING WITH DOUBLESOLID LINES

DO NOT PASS WHEN LINE

IS SOLID

PaSSInGAmotoristmustknow theproper lane fornormaldrivingandhow tochangelanessafely.Therulesforpassingdependonthetypeofroad.Staytotherightoftheroadway’scenterlines.Passingisonlysafewhenthereisnooncomingtraffic.

Watchforthefollowinglanemarkings:(N.J.S.A.39:4-86)• Both center lines are solid:Nopassingallowed.

• one center line is broken:Passingisallowedonlyonthesidewiththebrokenline.

• Both center lines are broken:Passingisallowedonbothsides.

Note:Allpassingmustbecompletedbeforethecenterlinesaresolidagain.

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PAss onLy when sAfeMostpassingshouldbeontheleft.Passingontherightisallowedonlyonroadswithmorethanonelanegoinginthesamedirection,ifvehiclesontheroadwayaremovingintwoormoresubstantiallycontinuouslinesorwhenthemotoristaheadismakingaleftturnandthereisroomtopass.Neverpassontherightshoulderoftheroad.Thisisagainstthelaw.(N.J.S.A.39:4-85)

Amotoristshouldnotpass:• Onahilloracurveoratanytimehe/shecannotseefarenoughahead

• Atastreetcrossingorintersection

• Atarailroadcrossing

• Onnarrowbridgesorinunderpassesortunnels

• Whenasignprohibitspassingorcenterlinesrestrictpassing

• Whenbehindavehiclethathasstoppedtoletapedestriancross

kEEPInG TO THE RIGHTThe laws of New Jersey require motorists to keep to the right, except whenpassing.Motoristsmustdriveontherighthalfoftheroadwayunlessdrivingonaone-waystreet.Motoristsmustdriveavehicleascloseaspossibletotheright-handedgeorcurboftheroadway,exceptwhenovertakingandpassinganothervehicle.(N.J.S.A.39:4-82)

Onamulti-laneroadway,motoristsmustdriveinthelanenearesttotheright-handedgeorcurboftheroadwaywhenthelaneisavailablefortravel,exceptwhenovertakinganothervehicleorinpreparationforaleftturn.(N.J.S.A.39:4-88)

yIElDInG THE RIGHT-Of-wayAlthoughlawsgoverntheright-of-way,amotoristshouldalwaysbepreparedtoyield.Thesebasicrulesalwaysapply.

• emergency vehicles:whenpolicecars,fireenginesandambulancesaregivingwarningsigns(sirens,flashinglights)

• Buses:whenre-enteringtheflowoftraffic

• postal vehicles:whenvehicleisseekingtore-entertheflowoftraffic

• motorized or mobility-assistance devices: wheninacrosswalkorseekingtocrossaroad

• other vehicles that are already in the intersection

PEDESTRIanS In a CROSSwalkNewJerseyhasexperiencedalargenumberofpedestrianinjurycrashesandfatalities,ascomparedtothenationasawhole.ThemostimportantpedestriansafetymessageforNewJersey residents is:pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. There is no single cause of crashes involving pedestrians.Pedestriansandmotoristsmustalldotheirparttokeeppedestrianssafe.

Amotoristmust:• Stopforpedestriansincrosswalks.(PerN.J.S.A39:4-36,failuretostop

carriesafineofupto$500,upto25daysinjail,communityservice,adrivingprivilegesuspensionofupto6monthsand2points.

• Watchforpedestrianswhenturningrightonred.

• Obeyspeedlimits.

• Besurenottoblockorparkincrosswalks.

• Keepthevehicle’swindshieldcleanformaximumvisibility.

• Bealertforpedestriansatalltimes.

• Beawareofareaswherepedestriansaremostlikelytoappear(nearschools,towncenters,residentialneighborhoods,parks).

• Neverpassanothervehiclethathasstoppedforapedestrian.

• Stopforallpedestriansinacrosswalk,eveniftheybegancrossingwithapropersignalandtheyarestillinthecrosswalkwhenthesignalchanges.

• Rememberthatpedestriansarethemostvulnerableroadwayusers.Motoristswillbeheldresponsibleformaintainingpedestriansafety.

InTERSECTIOnSAnintersectioniswheretwoormoreroadscrossormergeatangles.Asmostcollisionsoccuratintersections,amotoristshouldbeawareofthethreetypesofintersectionsandknowhowtosafelynavigatethroughthem.Asinglesolidwhite line across a road at an intersection means that a motorist must stopbehindthelineforatrafficsignalorsign.

controLLeDAnintersectioniscontrollediftherearetrafficsignalsorsignsinanydirectionorcontrolledbyapoliceofficer.Amotoristmustobeythesignalsandsigns.Atacontrolledintersection,amotoristmustyieldforcertainconditions.Atamulti-waystoporstopintersection,amotoristmustyieldtothemotoristontherightifbothmotoristsgetthereatthesametime.Amotoristshouldalsoyieldtoanother

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motoristalreadystoppedattheintersection.Atanintersectioncontrolledbyayield sign, amotoristmust slowdownand yield to trafficon the intersectingroadway,evenifhe/shehastostop.Whenmakingaleftturnatanintersection,amotoristmustyieldtooncomingtrafficandtostopforpedestrianswithinthecrosswalk.

Amotoristisprohibitedfromenteringorcrossinganintersectingstreetmarkedwith a stop sign unless he or she first brings the vehicle to a complete stopat a point within five feet of the nearest crosswalk or stop line marked uponthepavementatthenearsideoftheintersectionstreet.Themotoristmayonlyproceed after yielding the right-of-way to all traffic on the intersection street,whichissocloseastoconstituteanimmediatehazard.

Note:Drivingonprivatepropertytoavoidatrafficsignalorsignisamotorvehicleviolation.(N.J.S.A.39:4-66.2)

uncontroLLeDAnintersectionisuncontrolledwhentwoormoreroadsjoinandthereisnotrafficsignalorregulatorydevice.Amotoristmustbeverycarefulwhenapproachingthesetypesofintersections.Mostofthetimetherewillbeawarningsignpriortoreachingtheintersection.Asamotoristnearsacrossroadthatisnotcontrolled,he/shemustreducespeedandbereadytostopifanytrafficiscomingfromtherightor left.Amotoristcomingfromaprivateroadordrivewaymustyield toalltrafficonthemainroad(althoughamotoristcanneverbesurethatwilloccur).Asageneralrule,thevehicleontheleftshouldyieldtothevehicleontheright.Whenatrafficsignalisnotilluminatedbecauseofapowerfailureorothermalfunction,thetrafficsignalisobservedasa4-waystopsignal.(N.J.S.A.39:4-81)

bLinDBuildings,parkedvehiclesorbushesmayobstructamotorist’slineofsight.Onruralroadways,treesorcropsmayobstructamotorist’slineofsight.Amotoristshould always slow down or stop completely to make sure there is no crosstrafficbeforeproceeding.

trAffic circLeTherearenosetrulesfordrivinginto,aroundandoutofatrafficcircleinNewJersey.Commonsenseandcautionmustprevailatalltimes.Inmostcases,thecircle’shistoricallyestablishedtrafficflowpatterndictateswhohastheright-of-way.Ifamajorhighwayflowsintoandthroughthecircle,itusuallydominatesthetrafficflowpatternandcommandstheright-of-way.Trafficcontrolsigns,suchasstoporyieldsigns,attheentrancestothecirclealsogovernwhichmotorist

Merging Lanes

USE TURN SIGNAL

SPEED UP TO FLOW OF TRAFFIC

SLOW TO SPEED LIMIT OF EXIT LANE

USE TURN SIGNAL

AVOID STOPPING IN THE ENTRY AND EXIT LANES

BDMN_merging_lanes_110907

hastheright-of-way.Neverenteratrafficcirclewithoutcheckingallsignsanddeterminingtheintentionsofthemotoristsalreadymovingwithinthecircle.

Wheneveramotoristisindoubtconcerningwhohastheright-of-wayinacircle,he/sheshouldexerciseextremecautionandrememberthebasicrulegoverninganyuncontrolledintersection:Thevehicletotheleftyieldstheright-of-waytothevehicleapproachingfromtheright.

EnTERInG HIGHwayS, PaRkwayS anD TuRnPIkESHighways, parkways and turnpikes are high-speed (up to 65 mph) dividedroadwaysandgenerallyhavemultiplelanes.Trafficoneachsideofthedividewilltravelinonlyonedirection.Therearenodirectintersections.Motoristsentertheseroadwaysbywayofaccelerationlanes,whichareextralanesathighwayentrancesusedbymotoriststospeeduptojointheflowoftraffic.Amotoristmustyieldtotrafficalreadytravelingonthemainroadbeforemovingintotheproperlane.

Keepthefollowingpointsinmindwhenenteringahighway,parkwayorturnpike:• Obeypostedadvisoryspeedlimits(ifany)attheentranceramp.

• Speeduptotheflowoftrafficwhenleavingtheaccelerationlane.

• Avoidcomingtoacompletestopintheaccelerationlane.

• Yieldtotrafficandentertheright-handlanewhensafe.

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Merging Lanes

USE TURN SIGNAL

SPEED UP TO FLOW OF TRAFFIC

SLOW TO SPEED LIMIT OF EXIT LANE

USE TURN SIGNAL

AVOID STOPPING IN THE ENTRY AND EXIT LANES

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lEaVInG HIGHwayS, PaRkwayS anD TuRnPIkESIn most cases, exit ramps or deceleration lanes, which are extra lanes at ahighway exit, are located on the right-hand side of the roadway. A motoristshouldalwayswatchforsignsthatdirectwheretoexittheroadway.Ifamotoristmissesanexitramponahighway,parkwayorturnpike,he/sheshouldgotothenextexit.

Keepthefollowingpointsinmindwhenleavingahighway,parkwayorturnpike:

• Startslowingdownwhenenteringadecelerationlane.

• Obeythepostedadvisoryspeedlimitofthedecelerationlane

• Whentheexitislocatedontheleftofaroadway,lookforsignsthatwilldirecttraffictotheproperlaneforexiting.

• Ifyoumissanexit,goontothenextone.

• Neverbackuponanexitrampordecelerationlane.

SPECIal HIGHway, PaRkway anD TuRnPIkE COnDITIOnSweAve LAneAweavelaneisbothanentranceandanexitforanexpressway.Trafficmaycomeontoandleavetheexpresswayatthesamelocation.Thistrafficweavecausesconflicts,bothformotoristsusingaweavelaneandthoseontheexpresswayandentrance ramp (in termsof speedandspaceadjustments). Themotoristentering from the entrance ramp must yield the right-of-way to the motoristleavingtheexpressway.

hiGhwAys throuGh citiesThevolumeof trafficmay increasedramatically.Speedsmayslowtoacrawl.Amotoristshoulddriveintheleftorcenterlanetoavoidmergeconflictsduringrushhour.Amotoristshouldsearchforexitsearlyandadjustpositionforexit.

DisAbLeD vehicLesWhen seeing a disabled vehicle ahead, a motorist should reduce speed andincrease the space between his/her vehicle and the disabled vehicle. Thismayinvolvechanginglanes.Bealertforpedestrians,towtrucksand/orpolicevehicles.Ifamotorist’svehiclebecomesdisabled,he/shemust:

• Pulloffasfaraspossibleontotheshoulderormedian

• Turnonemergencyflashers.

• Raisethehoodtosignalforassistance.

• Stayinthevehicleandlockthedoors.

• Askanyonewhostopstogotoaphoneandcallforassistance.

• Notgetintoastranger’svehicle.

construction AreAsAmotoristshouldalwaysstayalertforconstruction-areawarningsigns.Whencomingacrosstheseareas,amotoristshouldadjustspeedandadjustpositiontomaintainspacearoundhis/hervehicle.

toLL boothsAmotoristshouldstayalertfortollboothsignsandbeginreducingspeedearly,astrafficmaybebackedupatthebooth.Greenlightsorsignalswillhighlightopenbooths.AmotoristshouldbeawareofEZPassboothsandlanes,includinghigh-speedEZPasslanes.Whenexitingtollbooths,amotoristshouldsearchtraffictobothsidesformergingpotential,acceleratesmoothlyandadjustspeed.

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CuRVESItisimportantforamotoristtoadjuststeeringandspeedwhenapproachingacurveintheroadbecausevehiclestendtokeepgoingstraight.Thebestwaytoenteracurveistoslowdownbeforeenteringandavoiddriftingintoanotherlane.Amotoristshouldalwayswatchforvehiclesthatmaydriftintohis/herlaneaswell.CheckforCurveAheadwarningsignsandrecommendedspeeds.

InTERCHanGESDividedroadwaysarebuilt forexpress traffic.Toease trafficflow, thereareusuallynotrafficlightsordirectintersections.Toenterorexitsuchanexpressway,acloverleafturnisoftennecessary.Amotoristshouldwatchforentranceandexitsignsanddriveslowlyinthecircle,obeyingthepostedspeedlimit.

Right Turn

USE TURN SIGNAL

STAY IN LANE

DO NOT CROSS DIVIDING LINE

BDMN_right_turn_110907

SLOW DOWN

TuRnInG REGulaTIOnSriGht turn on reDUnless a No Turn on Red sign is posted, New Jersey law authorizes a rightturnonaredlightafteramotoristcomestoafullstopandchecksfortraffic.Amotoristmustyieldtoalloncomingtrafficandpedestriansbeforeturningrightataredlight.Difficult-to-seevehicles,suchasbicyclesandmopeds,mayhaveagreenlight,soitisimportantforamotoristtobeawareoftheirpresence.(N.J.S.A.39:4-115)Alwaysuseaproperturnsignalatleast100feetbeforemakinganyturn,andcancelthesignalaftercompletingtheturn.(N.J.S.A.39:4-126)

riGht turns(N.J.S.A.39:4-123)Tomakeasaferightturn,amotoristshouldapproachtheintersectionasfartotherightaspossible,keepingneartothecurborparkedvehicles.Themotoristshouldnotswingoutwardorintoanotherlanewhilemakingtherightturn.He/sheshoulddriveuptotheturnasfartotherightaspossible,keepingclosetotherightcurborparkedvehiclesatthecurb.Thisvehiclepositioningpriortoarightturnreducesthechanceofanothervehiclebeinginthespaceontherightasthemotoristmakestheturn.He/sheshouldnotswingintothewronglanewhilemakingtheturn.

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Left Turn: Cutting Corners

USE TURN SIGNAL

YIELD TOONCOMINGTRAFFIC

DON’T CUT CORNERS

BDMN_left_turn_110907

Left turns(N.J.S.A.39:4-123)left turns, two vehicles:Whentwovehiclesmeetatanintersectionandbothhave signaled to turn left, extra caution must be applied. When safe, eachmotoristshouldturntotheleftofthecenteroftheintersection.

left turn from a one-way road on to a one-way road:Approachingtheturnin the left lane, themotoristshould turn into the left laneof the roadhe/sheisentering.

left turn from a two-way road onto a two-way road:Approachtheturnascloseaspossibletothelinenearesttothecenteroftheroad.Whenturning,thevehicleshouldnotcrosslanemarkings.Themotoristshouldkeeptotherightofthecenterlineoftheroadthatthevehicleisentering.

Left Turn: Four Lane

BDMN_leftturn_4lane_110907

YIELD TOONCOMINGTRAFFIC

USE TURN SIGNAL

DON’TTURN WIDE

left turns, between intersections:Between intersections, solid lines showwhennottopass.However,theselinesmaybecrossedwithcarewhenenteringorleavingdrivewaysinbusinessorresidentialareas.

left turn from a two-way road onto a four-lane highway: Approachtheturnasclosetothecenterlineoftherightsideoftheroadaspossible.Maketheturnbeforereachingthecenteroftheintersection.

Itisimportantnottocrosslanemarkings.Themotoristshouldturnintothelanenearestthecenterlineoftherightsideoftheotherroad.Thisisthepassinglaneofthefour-lanehighway.Whentrafficpermits,themotoristshouldmovetotheright,outofthepassinglane.

STOPPInG REGulaTIOnSSigns,signalsandtrafficrulesindicatewhenamotoristmuststop.Amotoristshouldnevertrytobeatatrafficlightchange.Amotoristmustbecarefulevenifthelightischangingtogreen(freshgreenlight).Theremaybeothervehiclescomingthroughorstillintheintersection.Mostaccidentsattrafficsignalshappeninthefirstfewsecondsafterthelighthaschanged.Whenayellowlightfollowsagreenlight,amotoristmuststopbeforeenteringtheintersection,unlessyellowappearswhenthevehicleistooclosetostopsafely.Ifthelightchangeswhile

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adriver isalready in the intersection,he/sheshouldgothroughwithcaution.Bealertforastalegreenlight;thisisalightthathasbeengreenforsometime.

Be prepared for it to change to yellow and then red. Slow down andstopaccordingly.

A motorist must stop:• Atanintersectionwithastopsign

• Atanintersectionwitharedlighteitherflashingorilluminated

• Atanintersectionwithayellowlightafteragreen,unlesstooclosetostopsafely

• Whenatrafficofficerordersthevehicletostop

• Whenthereisayieldsign,andtrafficdoesnotpermitasafemerge

• Whenaschoolbusispickinguporlettingoffchildrenand/ortheredlightsareflashing

• Whencomingfromanalley,privatedrivewayorbuilding

• Atabridgespanthatisabouttoopenforboattraffic

• Forablindpedestrianusingawhiteormetallicwalkingcane,oratrainedguidedog,oraguidedoginstructorengagedininstructingaguidedog

• Forapedestrianinacrosswalkoratanintersection

• Foramotorizedwheelchairormobility-assistancedeviceinacrosswalkoratanintersection

Single white stop lines show motorists where to stop at stop signs ortrafficsignals.

stoP At rAiLroAD crossinGsToensurepublicsafety,theNewJerseyDepartmentofTransportation(NJDOT)andrailroadcompaniesmarkpublichighwayrailroadcrossingswithoneormorewarning devices. Warning devices include advance warning signs, pavementmarkings in front of a railroad crossing, flashing lights (usually on railroadcrossingsigns),gatesorgateswithflashinglights,bellsandflagsignals.

Amotoristmuststopat least15feet fromrailroadcrossingswhen thereareflashinglights,ringingbellsorflagsignals.Descendinggatesorgatesthathavealreadybeenloweredindicatethatatrainiscomingandamotoristmuststop.Amotoristshouldneverattempttocrossuntilthegateshavebeenraisedandthelightshavestoppedflashing(N.J.S.A.39:4-127.1).

School Bus

CARS MUST STOP 25 FEETAWAY FROM SCHOOL BUS

BVMN_schoolbus_110907

All other commercial motor vehicles:Somevehicles,suchasschoolbusesorvehiclescarryinghazardousmaterials,must always stop at railroad crossings. When driving behind one of thesevehicles,amotoristmustbepreparedtostop,evenifsignalsdonotindicateatrainiscoming(N.J.S.A.39:4-128).

Amotoristshouldneverstophis/hervehicleonrailroadtracks.Ifavehiclestallsonthetracks,andthemotoristseesatraincoming,he/sheshouldgetoutandwalkclearofthetracks.Nevertrytoraceatrain.Mosttrainsneedmorethanamiletostop,iftravelingat60mphormore.

stoP for schooL buses(N.J.S.A.39:4-128.1)Amotoristmuststopforaschoolbuswithflashingredlights.Statelawrequiresmotoriststostopatleast25feetawayifhe/sheistravelingonatwo-laneroador on a multi-lane highway where lanes are only separated by lines or on aprivately maintained road. When traveling on a dual-lane highway, a motoristshouldslowto10mphifontheothersideofasafetyislandorraisedmedian.

Schoolbusesareequippedwithyellow (oramber)and redflashing lights.Theyellow (or amber) lights go on before the bus stops, and the red lights go onwhen it has stopped. However, a motorist should not depend on these lights,ifdrivingbehindaschoolbus.Theymaybemalfunctioning.

Whenabusstops,allmotoriststravelingbehindorapproachingitmuststoptheirvehiclesatleast25feetaway.Amotoristshouldonlyproceedafterthebussignalshavebeenturnedoff,andeventhen,he/shemustwatchforchildren.

Ifaschoolbushasstoppeddirectlyinfrontofaschooltopickuporletoffchildren,amotoristmaypassfromeitherdirectionataspeedofnomorethan10mph.

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stoP for frozen Dessert trucKs(N.J.S.A.39:4-128.4)Whenapproachingorovertakinganicecreamorfrozendesserttruckfromei-therdirection,andthetruckisflashingredlightsandpostingastopsignalarm,amotoristmust:

• Yieldtheright-of-waytoanypersonwhoiscrossingtheroadwaytoorfromthetruck.

• Watchoutforchildrenandbepreparedtostop.

• Stop,thendrivepastthetruckataslowspeedofnomorethan15mph.

Amotoristneednotstoponadualhighwayifhe/sheisontheothersideofasafetyislandorraisedmedian.

PuLL over AnD stoP for emerGency vehicLes New Jersey law requires all motorists to yield to emergency vehicles whentheysoundsirensand/orflashingredand/orblueemergencylights.Amotoristshouldsteertotheextremerightoftheroadway,stopandwaitforthevehicletopass.Afterward,themotoristshouldkeepatleast300feetbehindasignalingemergencyvehicle(N.J.S.A.39:4-92,39:3-54.12).

Policecars,fire trucks,ambulancesorotheremergencyvehicleshavesirensand red lights. Private vehicles operated by volunteer fire and rescue squadmembers(withemergencyvehicleidentification)respondingtoanemergencycall use blue lights. A motorist should never park within 200 feet of a firedepartmentvehicleinserviceordriveoverafirehoseunlessdirectedtodosobyafire,emergencyrescueorpoliceofficial.

move over LAwNew Jersey’s “Move Over” law requires that all motorists approaching astationary, authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck, highway maintenanceor other emergency service vehicle that is displaying a flashing, blinkingor alternating red, blue, amber or yellow light or, any configuration of lightscontainingoneofthesecolors,mustchangelanes,safetyandtrafficconditionspermitting,intoalanenotadjacenttotheauthorizedvehicle.Ifalanechangeisimpossible,prohibitedbylaworunsafe,themotoristmustreducethespeedofhis/hervehicletoareasonableandproperspeedthatislowerthanthepostedspeedlimitandbepreparedtostop,ifnecessary.Motoristswhoviolatethislawfaceafineofnot lessthan$100andnotmorethan$500.(C.39:4-92.2and39:3-84.6)

uSInG HEaDlIGHTSProper use of headlights is critical to safe driving. Headlights must be usedbetweenone-halfhouraftersunsetandone-halfhourbeforesunrise.Headlightsmust alsobeusedwhen visibility is500 feetor less,whenusingwindshieldwipers (during rain, snowand ice) orwhenencountering fog,mist, smokeorotherfactorsthatreducevisibility(N.J.S.A.39:3-46).

Beingabletoseeclearlywhiledrivingisveryimportant.Avehicle’slightsshouldalwaysbeingoodworkingorderandclean.Headlightshelpothermotoristsseeapproachingvehicles.Parkingorauxiliarylightscannotlegallybeusedinplaceofheadlightswhenheadlightsarerequired.

briGht AnD DimHeadlights have two sets of beams: bright (high) and dim (low), which arecontrolledbyaswitchorbuttononornear thedashboard.Thebrightbeam isforopen-countrydrivingwhenthereisnotrafficinsight.Thebrightbeamhelpsa motorist see farther ahead and peripherally or at a wider angle. At night, amotorist’spupilsaredilated,allowingmorelighttoaidintheabilitytosee.Brightbeams can momentarily blind other motorists by constricting the pupils andshould not be used if other vehicles are approaching or when driving behindanothervehicle.Itcantakethreetofivesecondsforamotoristtorecoverfromtheglareofapproachinghigh-beamheadlights.Ataspeedof50mph,amotoristwill have traveled the length of a football field while being unable to see. If avehicleisapproachingwithhighbeams,amotoristshouldlooktotherightoftheroaduntilthevehiclepasses.Neverflashhighbeamsatanapproachingmotorist.

Thedimbeamsareusedforcitydrivinganddrivingintrafficonroadways.Dimbeams are focused down on the road. Dim beams are used when travelingbehindothervehiclesorwhenanothervehicleisapproaching.

other tyPes of LiGhtsparking lights: These lights are to be used for a short period of time, suchaswhenavehicleisleftinapermittedzone,toshowothermotoristswhereavehicleisparked.Parkinglightsarerequiredonvehiclesparkedinareasotherthanbusinessorresidentialzones.

tail lights:Theselightsturnonatthesametimeasavehicle’sheadlightsandparking lights. They become brighter when a motorist applies the brakes toshowthathe/sheisslowingorstopping.Duringtheday,withoutheadlights,thetaillightsalsoturnonasamotoristappliesthebrakes.

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Brake lights:Theselightsbecomebrighterwhenamotoristappliesthebrakes,showingthatthevehicleisslowingorstopping.

interim (overhead) lights: Found inside the vehicle, these types of lightsshouldbeusedonlybriefly(whennecessary)whendrivingortocomplywithapoliceofficer’srequestto illuminatethemotorist’scompartmentofthevehiclewhenstopped.

dashboard lights: Ifdashboardlightsaretoobright,theymaycreateaglareforthemotoristandimpedevision.Thelightsshouldbekeptdimbutstilllightenoughforamotoristtoreadthedials.

Spotlights:Thesetypesoflightsshouldbeusedonlyinemergencies.Thisalsoapplies toemergencyflashers(hazard lights).Spotlightsmaynotbeusedfordrivingpurposes.

fog lights:Theseauxiliarydrivinglightsmaybeusedwithlow-beamheadlightstoprovidegeneral lightingaheadofamotorvehicle,specificallyduringfoggyweatherconditions(N.J.A.C.13:20-32.25).

PaRkInG REGulaTIOnSAmotoristshouldalwayscheckfortrafficwhenleavingavehicleafterparking.He/sheshouldalsocheckforbicyclesormopeds,whicharesometimesdifficultto see, before opening the driver-side door and exiting the vehicle. A motoristopeningadoorintotrafficmaybeliableforanycollisionwithamovingvehicle.Itissaferforpassengerstoexitaparkedvehiclefromthecurbside.Amotoristshouldreadparkingsignsbeforeparkingonacitystreettobeawareofrestrictionsortimelimits.Itisillegalforavehicletobeparkedmorethansixinchesfromthecurb(N.J.S.A.39:4-135).Neverparkwhereavehiclewillblocktraffic.

Do not PArK (N.J.S.A.39:4-138)Unlessdirectedtodosobyapoliceofficerortoavoidanaccident,amotoristshouldneverstoporparkatanyofthefollowingplaces:

• Onacrosswalk

• Betweenasafetyzoneforpedestriansandtheadjacentcurborwithin20feetoftheendofthesafetyzone

• Nearproperlymarkedstreetconstruction

• Inaspaceonpublicorprivatepropertymarkedforvehicleparkingforthehandicapped(unlesslegallyauthorized)

• Onaninterstatehighway

• Onasidewalk

• Inabusstopzone

• Infrontofapublicorprivatedriveway

• Withinanintersection

• Within10feetofafirehydrant

• Within25feetofacrosswalkatanintersection,orsidelineofastreetorintersectionhighway,exceptatalleys

• Within50feetofarailroadcrossing

• Within50feetofastopsign

• Within20feetofthedrivewayentrancetoanyfirestationandwithin75feetonthestreetoppositeafirestationentrance

• Onanybridgeorelevatedroadwayorinanytunnel

• Nexttoanothervehicleparkedatthecurb(doubleparking)

• Inanareawhereparkingisprohibitedbymunicipalordinance

Incaseofmechanicaltroubleorotheremergency,amotoristshouldstopontherighthighwayshoulderandturnonemergencyflashers.

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CEllulaR TElEPHOnESState law prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices (e.g., cellulartelephones) while driving a motor vehicle on any public road or highway.Using a handheld cellular telephone or texting device is a primary offense.Lawenforcementmaystopandciteamotorist specifically for theseactions.Motorists are permitted to use a hands-free cellular telephone if it does notinterferewithanyfederallyrequiredsafetyequipmentorwiththesafeoperationofthevehicle.Althoughtheuseofahands-freecellulartelephoneislegal,itisstronglydiscouraged.Ahandheldcellulartelephonemaybeusedonlyincertainemergencysituations,whichinclude:

• Fire

• Trafficaccident

• Seriousroadhazard

• Medicalemergency

• Hazardousmaterialemergency

Motorists in the above-mentioned circumstances must keep one hand onthesteeringwheelwhileusingahandheldtelephone.Toprovelegaluseofahandheldtelephonewhileoperatingamotorvehicle,amotoristmaybeaskedto produce testimony or written statements from appropriate authorities, ortelephonerecords.Finesforbreakingthislawrangebetween$100and$250(N.J.S.A.39:4-97.3).

A graduated driver license (GDL) motorist may not use a handheld orhands-freecellular telephone, or anyotherhandheldelectronicdevice,whenbehindthewheel.DoingsoisaviolationofGDLrestrictions(N.J.S.A.39:3-13,39:3-13.2A,39:3-13.4).

Aschoolbusdrivermaynotuseahandheldorhands-freecellular telephonewhileoperatingtheschoolbus,exceptinanemergencysituationorwhentheschoolbusisparkedinasafeareaoffofahighway(N.J.S.A.39:3B-25).

lITTERInGThrowing trash, debris or rubbish from a moving or parked vehicle is illegal.Litterisasafetyhazardandaneyesore.Finesofupto$1,000maybeimposedonmotoristsfoundthrowingdangerousobjectsfromavehicleontoaroadway.Ifthevehicleismovingwhenlitteristhrown,themotoristmaylosehis/herlicense.Alltrash,debrisorrubbishcarriedinavehiclemustbecoveredtokeepitfromlitteringtheroadway(N.J.S.A.39:4-63,39:4-64).

Chapter 5

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Passed by another VehicleRoad ConditionsReduced Visibilitynight DrivingDriving SituationsReacting to Driving ProblemsVehicle failureCollisions (accidents)what to do in Case of a Collision

8585 88888992949698

DeFeNsIVe DRIVInG

Prevent a Collisionaggressive Driving/Road RageDistractionsTired Driver/Highway HypnosisCommunicating and Drivingkeep a Safe Distance/Do not Tailgatefollowing DistancesChanging lanes and Passing

8080818182838485

PREVEnT a COllISIOn Mostcollisionsarecausedbymotoristerror.Amotoristcanreducethechancesofacollisionbyknowingandusingthestandardcollision-preventionformula:Be alert: Neverthinktheothermotoristwillnotmakeadrivingmistake.

Be prepared: Learnwhattodoinanysituationwhenyouhavetoactfast,andalwaysexpecttheunexpected.

Act in time: Trynottopanic.Knowwhattodoifsomethinghappenssuddenly

aGGRESSIVE DRIVInG/ROaD RaGE Emotionscanhaveagreataffectonamotorist’sdriving.Ifamotoristisangryorexcited,he/sheshouldtaketimetocooloff.Aggressivedrivingisdefinedasaprogressionofunlawfuldrivingactions,suchasspeeding,improperorexcessivelanechanging,orimproperpassing.Aggressivedriversfailtoconsiderhowtheiractionsbehindthewheelmayaffectothermotoristsontheroad.Whenbehindthewheel,amotoristshouldalwaysremaincalmandfollowtherulesoftheroad.Extremecasesofaggressivedrivingmayleadtoroadrage.

Road rage occurs when motorists lose their tempers or become frustratedbecauseofatrafficdisturbance.Theseaggressivemotoristsmayrunstopsignsandredlights,speed,tailgate,weavethroughtraffic,passillegallyontheright,makeimproperandunsafelanechanges,makehandorfacialgestures,scream,honkhornsorflashhighbeams. Inextremecases,aggressivemotoristsmaycauseacollision.

NewJersey iswagingacampaignagainst roadrage.Thestatehasspeciallytrained enforcement patrols to help stop aggressive motorists. To report anaggressivemotoristcall(888)SAF-ROADorcellphone#77.

Note:While thereareemergencyexceptions to thehandheldcellularphonelaw,itisalwayssafesttopullovertothesideoftheroadbeforemakingacall.

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DISTRaCTIOnSOperatinganymotorvehiclerequiresthemotorist’sfullattention.Inmanycases,collisionsarecausedbyadistractedmotorist.Inattentivemotoristsoftentailgate,gotoofastordriftoutoftheirlanes.Theyignoretrafficsignsandsignals,roadmarkings, potential traffic hazards, road conditions andother vehicles.Somecausesofinattentivedrivingare:

• Lightingacigarette

• Tryingtofastenasafetybeltwhiledriving

• Reachingacrosstheseattocloseadoororlookintheglovecompartment

• Reachingforcoinsinpocketswhiledrivinguptoatollbooth

• Tryingtoadjustawristwatch

• Watchingchildrenorpetsinthevehicle

• Tryingtoremoveacoat

• Readingmapsandnewspapers

• Eatingwhiledriving

• Adjustingamirrorwhiledriving

• Usingacellularphoneoranyotherelectronicdevice

• AdjustingtheradioorCDplayer

• Shaving

• Usingalaptopcomputerorfaxmachine

• Applyingmakeup

Amotoristshouldneverdoanyofthesewhiledriving.His/herfullattentionmustbeontheroadatalltimes.

TIRED DRIVER/HIGHway HyPnOSISAtireddriver isadangerousdriver.A tireddrivercannotdrivewellandhis/herreactiontimeisreduced.Themotoristmayalsogetupsetmoreeasilyorevenfallasleepbehind thewheel.A tireddrivercanbeasdangerousasadrunkdriver.Maggie’sLaw,whichwasenactedinJune2003,makesitillegaltoknowinglydriveavehiclewhileimpairedbylackofsleep.Thislawestablishesdrivingwhilefatiguedasrecklessnessunderthevehicularhomicidestatute(N.J.S.A.2C:11-5).

Whenamotoristhasbeenbehindthewheelforalongtime,he/shemayexperience“highwayhypnosis.”Thistrance-likestatemaybeavoidedbynotlookingatanyonethingformorethanafewseconds. It isrecommendedthatamotoristresteverytwohoursand/orsharethedrivingwithanotherlicensedmotorist.

Drowsy DrivinG – who is most At risK? Motoristswhoare:

• Sleepdeprived

• Drivinglongdistanceswithoutrestbreaks

• Drivingthroughthenightoratothertimeswhentheyarenormallyasleep

• Takingmedicinethatincreasessleepiness,ordrinkingalcohol

• Drivingalone

• Drivingonlong,rural,boringroads

• Youngpeople

• Shiftworkers

• Commercialdrivers

COMMunICaTInG anD DRIVInGCommunicatewithothermotoristsbyallavailablemeansandsignals.Amotoristshouldalwaysstay inthe lanethatshowswherehe/she intendstoturn.Turnsignals (hand signals) allow a motorist to tell other motorists what he/she isgoingtodo.Anothergoodmethodiscatchingothermotorists’eyes.Itmaybenecessarytotapthehorntowarnothermotorists.Atnight,aquickflipoftheheadlightsfromlowtohighandbacktolowmightbehelpful.

Amotoristshouldalwaysbepatient in townorcity trafficand trynot tomakequick turnsor lanechanges.Donot let rush-hour trafficbecome irritating.Bealertanddrivedefensively.Alwaysusegoodjudgmentinstopping,startingandturning.Knowingalltrafficrules,signsandsignalsishelpful. Ifamotoristmustpullofftheroad,he/sheshouldalwaysturnonthevehicle’semergencyflashers(hazardlights).

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Space Cushion

ONE CAR LENGTH OFDISTANCE PER 10 MPH

KEEP SAFE DISTANCEDO NOT TAILGATE

TOO CLOSE

BVMN_space_cushion_110907

kEEP a SafE DISTanCE/DO nOT TaIlGaTEAmotoristshouldalwayskeepasafedistancefromothervehiclesontheroadsothathe/shehasplentyoftimetoreacttoemergencies.Tailgatingreferstofollowingtoocloselybehindavehicledirectlyinfront.Thisisacommoncauseofaccidents.Tailgatingcancausea seriesof rear-endcollisionswhenmanyvehicles are too close together. There should be plenty of space between amotorist’svehicleandothersonallsides.Amotoristshouldstayinthemiddleofthelaneandmakesurethereisenoughroomaheadtostoporpasssafely.

one cAr LenGthAlthoughthereisnoperfectruleforfollowingdistance,theruleofthumbmostoftenusedistokeeponecarlengthback(about20feet)foreach10milesperhourofspeed.Athighspeedsor inbadweather, followingdistancesshouldbeincreased.

three-seconDs-PLus ruLeSincemostpeoplehavetroublejudgingdistances,thethree-seconds-plusruletodeterminesafedistancemaybeeasiertouse.Itisusefulatanyspeed.

• Choosesomefixedobjectaheadofthevehicleinfront.Theobjectmaybeasignoratree.Makesuretheobjectdoesnotdistractattentionfromdriving.

• Asthevehicleinfrontpassestheobject,begincountingseconds(one-thousand-one,one-thousand-two,one-thousand-three).

• Ifittakesatleastthreesecondsbeforeyourvehiclepassestheobject,amotoristshouldhaveenoughdistanceforasuddenstop.

• Practicingsafespacemanagement/followingdistanceistheabilitytostop avehiclesafelyandsmoothlyintheeventthevehicleinfrontstops.

• StoppingDistance=PerceptionDistance+ReactionDistance+BrakingDistance.

• Bykeepingafootnearthebrake,amotoristcanreducereactiondistance.

• Timeanddistancerelationshipsaredesignedforthebestdrivingconditions.

• Itshouldbenotedthatheaviervehiclesmaytakelongertostop.

Trytherulewhiledriving.Itcanhelpamotoristdevelopgoodjudgmentforproperfollowingdistances.Duringbadweather,thetimeintervalshouldbeincreasedtofourormoreseconds.

fOllOwInG DISTanCESWhilekeepingtheproperfollowingdistanceintraffic,themotoristshouldalwaysknowtheconditionofhis/hervehicle’sbrakes.Testthemoften.Makesureofthedistanceitmighttaketostop.Thisisveryimportantonwetroadsandwherethereissnoworice.Amotoristshouldalwaysincreasefollowingdistancewithpoorroadconditions.

minimum sAfe foLLowinG DistAnce (incarlengths)

road condition 20 mph 30 mph 40 mph 50 mph

ideal 2 car lengths 3 4 5

Wet pavement 4 car lengths 6 8 10

gravel 4 car lengths 6 8 10

packed snow 6 car lengths 9 12

ice 12 car lengths 18

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CHanGInG lanES anD PaSSInGUsingtheproperlaneisanimportantpartofdefensivedriving.Donotstraddlealane.Bealerttotrafficbehind.Whenalanechangemustbemade,lookattherearviewmirror.Glancebehindtocheckblindspots.Alwayssignallanechanges.Beforepassingavehicleorchanginglanes,keepthefollowingpointsinmind:

• Onlypassorchangelaneswhennecessary.

• Onlypassorchangelanesifitcanbecompletedwithoutspeeding.

• Keepasafefollowingdistance;donottailgate.

• Checktrafficaheadandbehind.

• Onlypasswhensignsandpavementmarkingspermit.

• Signaleverylanechange.

• Signalyourreturntotherightlane.

• Returntotherightlanewhenwellaheadofthevehiclethatwaspassed.(Agoodindicationthatitissafetoreturntotherightlaneiswhenthevehiclethatwaspassedisvisibleintherearviewmirror.)

• Canceltheturnsignal.

PaSSED by anOTHER VEHIClEWhenamotoristispassedbyanothervehicle,he/shemustbecareful.Stayintheproperlaneandslowdowntomakethepasseasierfortheothermotorist.Returntonormalspeedafterthepassingvehicleiswellahead(N.J.S.A.39:4-87).

ROaD COnDITIOnSwet roADsDrivemoreslowlyonwetroads.Stoppingandturningshouldbecompletedwithgreatcare.The three-seconds-plus ruleshouldbe increased to fourormoreseconds.Quickturnsorchangesinspeedmaycauseavehicletoskid.

Roadsurfacesarethemostslipperyduringthefirstfewminutesofarainfall.Whendriving through a water puddle, a motorist should test the brakes by pumpingthem. This will also help to dry the brakes. Speed should be decreased whenpassingthroughwaterpuddles,especiallythosedeeperthanthetreadofatire.

Hydroplaning

35 MPHOR MORE

35 MPH OR LESS

BVMN_hydroplaning_110907

hyDroPLAninGWetroadsurfacescancausetirestohydroplane,orrideuponafilmofwater,startingatabout35mph,whichcouldcauseamotoristtolosecontrolofhis/hervehicle.Chancesofhydroplaningincreaseasspeedsincrease.After55mph,tiresmay totally leave the roadsurface. If tires totally leave the roadsurface,braking is virtually impossible, and turning is not possible. A gust of wind, achangeinroadleveloraslightturncancreateaskidifavehicleishydroplaning.Toavoidhydroplaning,donotdriveonbaldorbadlyworntires,andslowdownwhenheavyrain,standingwaterorslush ispresent. Inaheavyrainstorm, trytodriveonthehighestpointoftheroad.Forexample,usethecenterlaneonamultiplelanehighway,whenavailable.

snow AnD iceWinterdrivinghasspecialdangers,includinglongerhoursofdarkness,fog,rain,snow,sleetandice.Eachoftheseincreasesthepossibilityforanaccident.Asafemotoristispreparedforthesetypesofsituations.

Beforedriving incoldweather,start theengineand let itwarmupaccordingtomanufacturerdirections.Allsnowandicemustberemovedfromtheentirevehicle.NewJersey lawstates thatamotorist is responsible forany ice thatfliesfromhis/hervehicleandcausesdeath,injuryorpropertydamage(N.J.S.A.39:4-77.1). Always make sure the vehicle has the proper type of windshieldwashingfluid.

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Insnowandiceconditions,amotoristshouldtakeprecautionsandgetafeelfortheroad.Gentlyapplyingthebrakeswhiledrivingslowlywillallowamotoristtofindoutjusthowslipperytheroadis.Thiswillalsoallowthemotoristtojudgehowfastthevehiclecangoandstillstopsafely.Avehiclewillskidifamotorist:

• Acceleratestooquickly.

• Turnstoofast.

• Brakesimproperly.

Motoristswhohaveavehiclewithantilockbrakes(ABS)shouldkeepafootonthebrakepedalandnotpumpthebrakes.Conventionaldiscanddrumbrakesrequirefirm,steadypressureon thebrakepedal.Hitting thebrakes toohardmaycausethewheels to lock. If thebrakesdo lock, releasethebrakepedalandthen immediately reapplywithslightly lesspressure.Thisprocessshouldbe repeatedwith lessand lesspressureon thebrakepedaluntil thevehicleisundercontrol.Snowtireshelpdrivingduringthewintermonthsbyprovidingbettertractionformorecontrolledstarting,steeringandstopping.Snowtiresdonotprovidegoodtractiononice.Tirechainsarethebesttractiononiceandinhard-packedordeepsnow.InNewJersey,motoristsmayusestuddedsnowtiresbetweenNovember15andApril1(N.J.S.A.13:20-15.2g).

Tostartonsnowandice,keeptheenginespeedlow.Ifthewheelsspin,alowergearshouldbeused.Whenstuck,rockthevehiclebackandforthbyshiftingbetweenforwardandreversetoescape.

Motoristsareprohibitedfromallowingtheirmotorvehiclestoidleformorethanthreeconsecutiveminutes.Amongtheexceptionsforthisprohibitionincludemotorvehiclesstoppedinthelineoftraffic,motorvehiclesbeingrepaired,motorvehicleswaitingtobeinspected,emergencyvehiclesinemergencysituationsandbuseswhiledischargingorpickinguppassengers(N.J.A.C.7:27-15.8,7:27-14.3).

REDuCED VISIbIlITyPoor roadway or weather conditions require motorists to increase followingdistancebecauserough,wetorsnow-coveredroadsmayrequiremoreresponsetime.Agoodruleonsnow-coveredroadsistomaintainafollowingdistanceofsixsecondsormore.

frost or ice:Alwaysscrapeandwipeavehicle’swindowsbeforestarting.Turnonthedefroster.Ifthedefrosterdoesnotworkwhiledrivinginfreezingrainorsnow,stopthevehicle.Closethewindowsandlettheheaterwarmupthewindows.

fog:Alwaysslowdownwhendrivinginfog.Headlightsshouldbekeptonlowbeamand fog lights shouldbe turnedon, if the vehiclehas them.Pavementmarkingsandothervehiclelightscanserveasamotorist’sguide.

Sun glare:Sun visors shouldalwaysbeadjusted to shieldamotorist’s eyeswithoutcuttingoffhis/herviewoftheroad.Holdthesteeringwheelfirmlyandslowdown.Watchforlanemarkings.

Inallcases, ifvisibility isgreatly reduced,amotoristshouldstopalongsidetheroadorontheshoulder,outofthewayoftraffic,andturnonemergencyflashers.

nIGHT DRIVInGNearly90percentofdrivingdecisionsarebaseduponwhatamotorist seeswhiledriving.Atnight,amotorist’svisionisreduced.Todrivesafelyatnight,slowdownanddrivewithintherangeofthevehicle’sheadlights.Amotoristshouldalwaysbesurethevehiclecanstopwithinthedistancethathe/sheseesahead.Amotoristshouldalwaysconsiderthefollowingfactorswhendrivingatnight:

• Speed

• Reactiondistance(distancetraveledbeforehittingthebrake)

• Brakingdistance(distanceneededtocompletelystopvehicle)

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DrivinG AnD stoPPinG At niGht

This table shows the distance the average motorist will need to stop whiledrivingatadesignatedspeedusinglowbeamsatnight.Numbersarebasedonamotoristreactiontimeof1.5seconds.Avehicletravels88feetpersecondat60mph.Decelerationis17.02feetpersecond.

Othersafetyrulesfornightdrivingare:• Drivewithheadlightsonatdusk,night,dawn,ondarkdaysandwhenever

weatherconditionsreducevisibilitytolessthan500feetStatelawrequirestheheadlightstobeonwhenwindshieldwipersareinuse(N.J.S.A.39:3-46).

• Drivemoreslowlythanduringdaylight.

• Watchforroadsigns,slow-movingorunlitvehicles,bicycles,pedestriansandanimals.

• Allowformoresafetymarginsthanyouwouldduringdaylight.

DRIVInG SITuaTIOnSAmotoristwillcomeacrossanumberofdifferentdrivingsituationsthathavetheirownuniquesafetyconcernsorrequirements.Amotoristmustknowhowtosafelynavigatehis/hervehicleineachofthesesituations.

city DrivinGWhentravelinginacity,heaviertrafficandmorepedestriansrequiremotoriststobeveryalert.Incitytraffic,amotoristshouldtrytocooperatewithothermotorists.Drivemoreslowlyandwatchforthemovementsofothers.Motoristsmustbemorecareful about pedestrians and less-visible vehicles, such as bicycles, mopeds,motorcycles,motorizedwheelchairsandmobility-assistancevehicles.Pedestriansandindividualsinwheelchairsormobility-assistancevehiclesalwayshavetheright-of-wayinacrosswalk.Motoristsmustalwaysstopforpedestriansinacrosswalk.

Speedreaction distance

Braking distance

Stopping distance

20 mph 44 ft 25 ft 69 ft

30 mph 66 ft 57 ft 123 ft

40 mph 88 ft 101 ft 189 ft

50 mph 110 ft 158 ft 268 ft

60 mph 132 ft 227 ft 359 ft

70 mph 154 ft 310 ft 464 ft

A motorist should look at least 12 seconds ahead. This means that he/sheshouldbeabletoseeanobjectfarenoughaheadsothatittakesatleast12secondstogettoit.Whiledrivingat25mphonaclearroadinacity,amotoristshouldbeable toseeaboutablockahead.When traffic isheavy,extra timetoreact isnecessary,whichmeansdrivingmoreslowly.Byreducingspeed,amotoristgainstime.

Oncitystreets,amotoristwillpassthroughintersectionsveryoften.Manynewmotoristsfailtoseeintersections.Amotoristshouldalwaysconsiderthefollow-ingsafetytips:

• Ifatthemiddleofablock,checkintersectionsaheadfortrafficcontrols.

• Whenapproachingornearinganintersection,reducespeed.Glanceleftandthenright.Keepfootonthebrake.

• Whenatacrosswalk,avehicleshouldbeatitslowestspeed.Amotoristmust decide whether to stop or go across. Take quick glances around. Ifclear,proceedtocross.

Watchforuncontrolledintersectionswheretherearenolightsorsigns.Donotthink thata roadway isprotectedbecause it iswide,smoothorbusy. If therearenotrafficsignals,thereisnotrafficcontrol.Avoidingcollisionsisuptothemotorist.Look.Listen.Think.

hiGhwAy DrivinGTrafficaccidentsanddeathscanhappenonhighwayswhentheweatherisgoodandtheroadsaredry.Exceedingthepostedspeedlimitordrivingtoofastforroadconditionsisoneofthemostprevalentfactorscontributingtotrafficcollisions.

Majorhighwaysareusuallyingoodcondition.Theyoftenhavefourormorelanes.Wide-openspacesoftengiveamotoristthefeelingthathe/shecanrelaxhis/herattention.Itisimportanttostayalertonhighways.Somehighwaysmaynothavetrafficsignsorsignalsatcrossroads.Thismeansamotoristmustdrivedefensivelyandstaywithinthespeedlimit.Alwaysbereadytoreacttotheunexpected.

hiLLs, briDGes AnD other roAD hAzArDsAmotoristshouldalwaysbeonthelookoutforsignsthatwarnofroadhazards.Theseincludehills,dips,narrowbridges,bumpsandrailroadtracks.Driveslowlyintheseareas.Ifavehicleismovingtoofast,themotoristmaynotbeabletoslowdownintime.Speedingandapplyingthebrakesfirmlycancauseaskidoraspin.


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Motorists should be cautious when traveling in farm country or in open landwherelivestockordeermaycrosstheroad.Ifamotoristencountersananimal,he/sheshouldslowdownuntiltheanimalhaspassed.Animalsmakeunexpectedmoves,soamotoristmustbealert.

construction zones/worK zones (N.J.S.A.39:4-203.5)Mostmotoristswillencounterconstructiononroadways.InNewJersey,trafficfinesaredoubledformotorvehicleviolationscommittedintheareaofroadwayconstructionzones.Theseworkzonesareidentifiedbyanadvancewarningsignorflashinglightsonavehicleuptoone-halfmilebeforetheworkarea.Flaggersmaycontrol trafficandprotectprojectpersonnel in theworkarea.Sometimesit is necessary to redirect traffic from its normal path around the work zone.Motoristsmayencounteradetourontoanotherroadwaytobypasstheworkareaoradiversionontoatemporaryroadway,suchasamediancrossoveroralaneshift.Iftrafficispermittedthroughoradjacenttotheworkarea,itwillbeguidedwithtemporarytrafficcontroldevices.Attheendoftheworkarea,therewillbeanEndRoadWorksignorthelasttemporarytrafficcontroldevice,somotoristscan resume normal driving. For illustrations of signs and barricades used inconstructionzones,seetheDriverSafetySectionattheendofthismanual.

Itisextremelyimportantformotoriststoremainalertwhentravelingthroughaworkzone.Annually,therearenearly800fatalandover37,000seriousinjurycrashesinworkzones.Inaddition,congestionanddelaysmaymount,causingthe frustration level of motorists to rise. Motorists should keep the followingbasicsinmind:

• Stay alert: Dedicatefullattentiontotheroadway.• pay close attention: Signsandworkzoneflaggerssavelives.• turn on headlights: Workersandothermotoristsmustbeableto

seethevehicle.• don’t tailgate: Unexpectedstopsorslowingmayoccur.• don’t speed: Notethepostedspeedlimitsinandaroundtheworkzone.• minimize distractions:Avoidchangingradiostationsortalkingon

hands-freedeviceswhentravelingthroughaworkzone.• expect the unexpected: Keepaneyeoutforworkersandtheirequipment.• Be patient: Rememberthatwork-zonecrewmembersareworking

toimprovetherideforallmotorists.

REaCTInG TO DRIVInG PROblEMSA motorist should always be prepared for any problems that he/she mayencounter while driving. Certain situations require the motorist to reactimmediatelyinordertoavoidanaccident.

iGnition systemToday’s vehicles are equipped with ignition systems that, when used properly,willprevent thetheftofanautomobileandvehiclerollaway.An ignitionsystempermitskeyremovalonlywhenthevehicle’stransmissionisintheParkposition.Motoristsinanemergencysituationonthehighwaymayattempttoturnoffthevehiclewhileitisstillinmotion,believingtheywillbringthevehicletoastop.Thebasicrulethemotoristmustfollowwhenoperatingavehiclewithasteeringwheelignitionsystemistoneverturntheignitiontothelockpositionwhilethevehicleisinmotion.Thesteeringwilllockasthevehicleturns,andthemotoristwilllosecontrolofthevehicle.

sKiDsSudden turns, lane changes or hard braking can throw a vehicle into a skid.Thisoftenhappensonwetoricyroads.Amotoristshouldhandleaskidinbothfront-wheelandrear-wheeldrivevehiclesinthesameway.Iftherearendofthevehiclestartstoslide,amotoristshouldtakehis/herfootoffthegaspedal.Avehiclemayspinifthesteeringwheelisquicklyturnedawayfromthedirectionoftheskid.

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Toavoidaspin,themotoristshouldturninthedirectiontherearofthevehicleisskidding,withoutoversteering.Whenskidding,amotoristshouldlookinthedirectionthathe/shewantstogo.Amotoristwillbeabletofeelwhenthevehicleisbackundercontrolandshouldthenstraightenthewheels.Duringasideskid,avoidusingthebrakes.

emerGency stoPsIfanemergencyhighwaystopisnecessary,amotoristshouldalwayskeepseveralbasicpointsinmind.Onahighwaywithpavedshoulders,signalandturnontotheshoulderatorneartrafficspeed.Thenbegintoslowdown.Wheretheshoulderisunpaved,signalaturnandslowdowntoasafespeedbeforeturningoff.Oncethe vehicle is pulled to the shoulder, turn on the parking lights or emergencywarninglights.

Neverblocktaillightsatnightbystandingorworkingbehindthevehicle.Dayornight,putaflareorotherwarningsignjustbehindthevehicle.Putanotherwarningdeviceat least300 feetback (about120paces).Raise thehood.Tie awhitehandkerchieftotheantennaorleftdoorhandleasasignal,ifhelpisneeded.

runninG off the PAvementIfavehicle’swheelsdriftontotheshoulderoftheroad,donottrytoturnbackonto the pavement right away. This might throw the vehicle off balance. Toooften motorists panic and steer abruptly to return to the road, causing thevehicletoslingshotacrosstheroadwayorintotraffic.Instead,amotoristshouldstayontheshoulderandeaseuponthegaspedal.Afterthevehiclehassloweddownto25mphorless,themotoristmayturnbackontotheroadbyturningthesteeringwheelone-quarterturntowardtheroadway.Thiswillallowtirestoclimbthepavementedgeandgetbackontothepavement.

Ifavehiclerunsoffthepavement:•Slowdown.

•Regaincontrol.

•Turnslowlyontotheroad.

cAr firesMostcarfiresarecausedbyshortcircuitsintheelectricalsystem.Incaseoffire,donotwastetime.Getpassengersoutandawayfromthevehicleatonce,andcallforhelp.Amotoristshouldneverattempttoputoutafire.

PLunGinG into wAterWatercausesmorepanicthananyotheremergency.Actualtestshaveresultedinafewtips.Avehiclewithwindowsanddoorsclosedwillfloatforaboutthreetotenminutes.Twomajorpointsinescapeandself-rescuefromasubmergedvehiclearetowearaseatbelt,whichwillincreasethechancesofsurvivingtheinitialimpactofthewater,and,whilethevehicleisstillfloatingonthesurface,to escape through an open window. It is hard to open a door against waterpressure,butawindowcanberolleddowneasily.Powerwindowsmayshortout,sotrytoopenthematonce.Glassinthesideandrearwindowscanbebrokenbutonlywithaheavy,hardobject.

Afront-enginevehiclewillsinknosefirst.Someairmaybepushedtotherear,neartheroof.Whenthepressure insideandoutsidethevehicle isequal, it iseasiertoopenadoor.Amotoristshouldtrytoescapethroughadoororwindow.Remember that three to five minutes gives plenty of time in an emergency.Wearingaseatbeltisthebestinsuranceagainstbeingknockedunconscious.Onceoutofthevehicle,amotoristmaybecomedisorientedunderwater.Alwaysremembertofollowtheairbubblestoreachthesurface.

stALLinG on rAiLroAD trAcKsIfthevehiclehasastandardshift,themotoristshouldtrytomoveitbyrunningthestarterinloworsecondgear.Withanautomaticshift,themotoristwillhavetopushthevehicleoffthetracks.Ifthevehiclecannotbemovedoffthetracks,andatrainiscoming,themotoristshouldmoveasfarawayfromthetracksaspossibleandcallforhelp.

VEHIClE faIluRENomatterhowwellavehicleismaintained,thereisstillachanceamotoristwillexperiencevehicleproblems.Amotoristshouldalwaysbepreparedforanytypeofsituationandneverpanic.

brAKe fAiLureIfavehicle’sconventionaldiscanddrumbrakessuddenlyfail,amotoristshouldshift to a lowergear andpump thebrakepedal fast andhard several times.Thismaybuildupenoughbrakepressuretostopthevehicle. Ifthatdoesnotwork,theparkingbrakeshouldbeusedwhileholdingthebrakerelease,sothemotoristcanletupiftherearwheelslockandthevehiclebeginstoskid.Withthevehicleinlowgear,themotoristshouldbeginlookingforasafeplacetostopofftheroadwayandcallforhelp.

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tire bLowoutIfamotoristexperiencesaflattireorblowout,he/sheshouldholdthesteeringwheelfirmlyandkeep thevehiclestraightwhilegraduallyslowingdown.Themotoristshouldremovehis/herfootfromthegaspedalbutnotusethebrakes.Thevehicleshouldcoasttoastoponitsownasthemotoristpullstoasafeareaofftheroadway.

Power steerinG fAiLureWhenanenginedies,avehicle’spowersteeringwillfail.Themotoristshouldkeepafirmgriponthewheelbecauseextrahandpowerwillbeneededtoturnorkeepcontrol.Thevehicleshouldbebroughttoastopinasafeareaofftheroadway.Themotoristmayneedtopushveryhardonpowerbrakesthatarenotworking.

heADLiGht fAiLureIf headlights suddenlygoout, amotorist should safelybring the vehicle toastopinasafeareaofftheroadway.Theheadlightordimmerswitchesmayhelpthelightsgoonagain.Ifthisdoesnotwork,themotoristshouldputtheparkinglights,emergencyflashersorturnsignalsonandcallforhelp.

GAs PeDAL ProbLemsIfagaspedalsticks,themotoristshouldkeephis/hereyesontheroadwhilequicklyshiftingtoneutral.Steerthevehicletoasafeareaofftheroadway,turntheengineoffandcallforhelp.

hooD LAtch fAiLureIfthevehicle’shoodsuddenlyfliesup,themotoristshouldslowdownimmediately.He/sheshouldtrytolookunderthehoodtoseetheroadorlookoutofthesidewindowaroundthehood.Usingthecenter lineor lanemarkingsasaguide, themotoristshouldpullthevehicletoasafeareaofftheroadwayassoonaspossible.

winDshieLD wiPer fAiLureWhenwindshieldwipersstopsuddenlyduringrainorsnow,themotoristshouldslowdown,pulltoasafeareaofftheroadwayandturnonemergencyflashers.Callforhelpifnecessary.

COllISIOnS (aCCIDEnTS)AvoiDinG coLLisionsNomatterhowcarefulamotoristis,emergenciesdoarise.Amotoristmanynotalwaysbeabletoavoidacollision.This iswhy it is importanttoknowhowtosafelyhandleanytypeofsituationthatmayoccur.Properreactioncouldsavethelifeofthemotoristandhis/herpassengersorothersinvolved.Aboveall,seatbeltsshouldalwaysbewornwhiledriving.

Ifamotoristseesthathis/hervehiclemayhitsomething,oneofthreethingscanbedone:stop,turnorspeedup.

Stop quickly:Ifthevehiclehasconventionaldiscanddrumbrakes,themotoristshouldpumpthebrakestogainbettercontrolinsteering.Thewheelswilllockandcauseskiddingifamotoristbrakestoohardandholdsthemdown.Ifthevehicle has antilock brakes (ABS), they will adjust automatically if a wheelbeginstolock.Withthisbrakesystem,amotoristcanputmaximumpressureonthebrakesandretainsteeringcontrolwithoutpumpingthebrakes.

turn quickly: Ifamotoristcannotstop in time,he/sheshould turnawayanddriveoff theroad ifnecessary. If themotoristcankeepfromusing thebrakeswhileturning,thiswilllessenthechancesofaskid.Amotoristshouldnotbrakehardifturningontoasoftshoulderofaroad.Thiscouldcauseskiddingorlossofcontrol.

Speed up:Sometimesitisbestornecessarytospeeduptoavoidacollision.Thismayhappenwhenanothervehicleisabouttohitamotorist’svehiclefromthesideorfrombehind,andthereisroomtothefronttogetoutofdanger.Amotoristshouldpushthegaspedaltothefloor.Theremaybeonlysecondstoact,soamotoristmustdecidequickly.Oncethedangerhaspassed,themotoristshouldslowthevehicle’sspeed.

LAst-minute choicesAmotoristshouldneverpanic,especially inthefewsecondsbeforeapossiblecollision.Therearesome last-minutechoices thathe/shewillhave tomake.Amotoristshouldalwaysbeawareofwhattodoinanemergencysituation.Reactingproperlyandquicklycanavoidcollisionsor,atleast,minimizedamage.

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Ifacollisionlookspossible,themotoristshouldturnawayfromoncomingtraffic,evenifitmeansleavingtheroad.Drivingofftheroad,ratherthanskidding,givesthemotoristmorecontroloverthevehicle.Themotoristshouldchoosetohitsomethingthatwillgiveway(suchasbrushorshrubs)ratherthansomethinghard.

Choosetohitsomethingmovinginthesamedirection,ratherthansomethingthatisnotmoving.Choosetohitsomethingnotmoving,ratherthansomethingcomingstraighton.Ifhittingsomethingisunavoidable,trytomakeitaglancingblow.Asideswipe,forexample,willhelpslowthevehicle.Trytoneverhitanythinghead-on.Foreveryinchthatamotoriststeersawayfromacollisionbetweenthecenter of the vehicle’s front end and the center of the oncoming object, theenergyofthecollisionwilldissipateandreduceinjuryanddamage.

reAr coLLisionIfthevehicleisabouttobehitfromtherear,themotoristmustbereadytoapplythe brakes to avoid being pushed into a vehicle ahead. The motorist shouldbracehis/herbodybetweenthesteeringwheelandtheseatback,pressingthebackofhis/herheadfirmlyagainsttheheadrest(ifvehiclehasone).

siDe coLLisionIfthevehicleisabouttobehitfromtheside,themotoristshouldkeepatightgriponthesteeringwheel.Thismaykeephim/herfrombeingthrownagainstthesideofthevehicle.Themotoristshouldbereadytoturnfast,sothatifthevehiclespinsaround,he/shecantrytocontrolthevehicle.

heAD-on coLLisionIfthevehicleisabouttobehitfromthefront,themotoristshouldusehis/herarms and hands to protect his/her face if wearing a shoulder strap and thevehicleisequippedwithairbags.Ifthevehicleisnotequippedwithashoulderstraporairbags,themotoristshouldthrowhimself/herselfacrosstheseattokeepfromhittingthesteeringwheelorwindshield.Airbagswilltypicallydeployinvehiclesthathavethem.

PArKeD vehicLe coLLisionIfamotoristhitsaparkedvehicle,thepolicemustbenotified.Thedrivershouldalsotrytofindtheownerofthevehicle.

wHaT TO DO In CaSE Of a COllISIOnIf amotoristwitnessesacollisionor is involved inone, he/sheshould followthesetipsinordertohelpprotecteveryoneinvolved:

• Stopthevehicle.

• Remaincalm.

• Assumetheworstandgethelp(notifythepolice;callanambulance).

• Waitatthescene,buttrynottoblocktraffic.

• Askforassistancefrompassingmotorists,bikersorjoggers,ifneeded.

• Dependingonthelocationoftheaccident–localroad,highwayorinabusycityintersection–warnoncomingtraffic.

rePortinG AcciDents(N.J.S.A.39:4-130,39:4-131)NewJerseylawrequiresmotoriststonotifythepoliceofaccidentswherethereis injury, death, or vehicle or property damage. If someone has been killed,do not move the body or permit anyone to move the body until the police orambulancearrives.

If the motorist is involved in the accident, he/she can help the police byansweringasmanyquestionsaspossible andbygiving themasmany factsabouttheaccidentaspossible.Whendamagetopropertyismorethan$500orthereispersonalinjury,amotoristmust:

• SendawrittenreporttotheMVCwithin10daysifnopolicereportisfiled.Awrittenreportisnotrequiredifareportisfiledbypolice.Amotoristcangetacopyofthereportformfromthepolice.

• Notifyhis/herinsurancecompanyatonce,givingcompleteinformationabouttheaccident.

• Ifthemotoristisshakenup,he/sheshouldseeadoctorassoonaspossible.

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Effects of alcoholHow Much is Too Much?Drinking and DrivingGood Hosts and the Drinking DriverDesignated DriversDrugs and DrivingHealthy Driving

102102104104105105106

Drinking, Drugs & Health

EffECTS Of alCOHOlAlcoholisadrugthataffectsoveralldrivingability.Alcoholmaymakeamotoristoverconfidentandunabletothinkclearly.Motoristswhodrinkmaymakemoremistakes.Evenifamotoristthinkshe/sheisbelowtheleveloflegalintoxication,alcoholwillaffectdriving.Drinkingevenasmallamountofalcoholincreasesamotorist’schancesofhavinganaccident.Neverdrinkanddrive.

Driving under the influence of intoxicating beverages means that a driver’ssensesand judgmentare impairedbyalcohol.After two, threeor fourdrinks,alcoholbeginstoimpairreactiontime,coordinationandbalance.Visionandtheabilitytojudgedistanceisaffected,makingitmoredifficulttoreactandtodrivesafely.Theonlythingthatcanmakeapersonsoberistime.Alcoholisremovedslowlybythebody.Themajority(90percent)ofthealcoholdetoxifiedisoxidized(burnedup)bytheliver.Theother10percentiseliminatedinbreath,urineandsweat.Thisfactistheprimereasonwhysober-up-quickmethodsdonotwork.

Inaddition,studieshaveprovenconclusivelythatacombinationofalcoholandangerisresponsibleformuchofthereckless,aggressivedrivingthatcancausefatalhighwayaccidents.Whilemostalcohol-relatedcollisionsinvolveonlyonevehicle,theyfrequentlyresultinthedeathorseriousinjuryofnumerouspeople,includingpassengers,pedestriansandothermotorists.

HOw MuCH IS TOO MuCH?Theonlyscientificwaytocheckisthroughbloodalcoholconcentration,orBAC.A simple breath test will show a motorist’s BAC. BAC is determined by fourfactors:

• Quantityofalcoholconsumed

• Bodyweight

• Howquicklydrinkswereconsumed

• Foodeaten

Thebestwaytoreducetheriskofacrashcausedbydrinkinganddrivingisnottodriveatallafterdrinking.

InNewJersey, it is illegalforan individualwhois21yearsofageoroldertodrivewithaBACof .08percentorhigher (N.J.S.A.39:4-50).For individualsyounger than 21, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of .01 percent or higher.Violators face severe penalties in addition to other penalties assessed forDUI/DWI(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.14).

Alcohol

1.5 OUNCES OF86 PROOF LIQUOR

12 OUNCE BOTTLEOR CAN OF BEER

5 OUNCE GLASSOF WINE (12%)

ONE DRINKEQUALS...

EVERY DRINK CONTAINS ABOUT 1/2 OUNCE OF ALCOHOL. IT’S NOT WHAT YOU DRINK, BUT HOW

MANY DRINKS YOU HAVE.

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IfamotoristhasreachedaBACofslightlyabove.05percentafterdrinking,theriskforcausingamotorvehicleaccidentdoubles.Theriskissixtimesasgreatwhendrivingwith aBACof .10percent. The risk is25 timesasgreatwhendrivingwithaBACof.15percent.

Note: Under state law, refusal to take a breath test is equal to driving witha BAC of .10 percent for a first offense. The current penalty for both is thelossofdrivingprivilegesforsevenmonthstooneyear, torunconcurrentlyorconsecutively,baseduponajudge’sorder(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.4a).MotoristswhorefusetotakeabreathtestinNewJerseyarealsosubjecttoanMVCinsurancesurchargeof$1,000peryearfor threeyears(N.J.S.A.17:29A-35).Failuretopay this surcharge will result in an indefinite suspension of drivingprivilegesuntilthefeeispaid.

Itisimportanttorememberthatitdoesnotmatterwhatalcoholicbeverageisconsumed.Thereisjustasmuchalcoholintheaveragebeerasthereisintheaveragedrinkofwhiskeyorwine.Forexample,1½ouncesof80-proofwhiskey,12ouncesofbeeror5ouncesoftablewineallcontainthesameamountofalcohol: about½ounceof alcohol per drink. Studies show thatmost peoplearrestedfordrinkinganddrivinghadbeendrinkingbeer.

Althoughfooddoesslowtheabsorptionofalcoholintothebloodstream,eatingwillnotpreventahighBACwhensteadilydrinkinglargeamounts.HeavydrinkingwillalwaysproduceahighBAC.Eatingdoesnotmakeamotoristsober.Thebestwaytoavoiddrinkinganddrivingistoarrangeforadesignatedmotorist,usepublictransportationorcallacab.

DRInkInG anD DRIVInGDrinkingaffectsamotorist’sthinkingandslowsreactiontime.Alcoholmayalsogiveamotoristafalsefeelingthathe/shecandoanything.Lawenforcementistrainedtonoticecertaintelltalesignsthatamotoristhasbeendrinking:

• Speeding:Anintoxicateddriveroftenthinkshighspeeddrivingissafe

• Weaving:Eventhoughanintoxicateddrivermaystayinthecorrectlane,drivingstraightmaybeaproblem

• Slow driving:Anintoxicateddrivermaybeoverlycautiousanddriveslowerthanthenormaltrafficflow

• Jerking motion:Anintoxicateddriveroftenmayhaveshortmentallapsesandnotkeepasteadyspeedonaclearroad

• Quick stops:Anintoxicateddrivermaymakesuddenstopsatatrafficsignorlight,ratherthaneasinguptoit

GOOD HOSTS anD THE DRInkInG DRIVERAlwaysbeagoodhost.Ifservingalcoholataparty,alwaysprovidealcohol-freedrinksandservenutritious foodsor snacks.Never insist thataguest shoulddrinkanalcoholicbeverageorinsistonrefills.

Stopservingalcoholwellbeforethepartyends. Ifsomeonedrinkstoomuch,donot let themdrive. Ifnoothertransportation isavailable,suggestanaporinvite the guest to spend the night. As a last resort, notify the police. Hostsmaybecomeinvolvedinalawsuitifaguestisinvolvedinadrinkinganddrivingcollisionafterleavingtheparty.

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DESIGnaTED DRIVERSAsthefirststateinthecountrytoofficiallylaunchtheHeroCampaignforDesignatedDrivers,NewJerseyencouragesallstateresidentstoparticipate indesignateddriverprogramswherevertheytravel,whetherasamotoristorapassenger.Beingadesignateddriverisagreatresponsibility.Thedesignateddriverisresponsibleforthesafetransportationoffriendsorfamilymemberswhohavebeendrinkingalcoholicbeverages.Designateddriversnotonlyensurethesafetyofthepeopletheyareescortinghomebutalsothesafetyofothermotorists.

Amotoristwhochoosestohaveadesignateddriverwhenattendingfunctionswhere alcohol will be served shows maturity and consideration for othermotoristswhosharetheroad.MoreinformationaboutdesignateddriversandtheHeroCampaigncanbefoundatwww.herocampaign.org.

DRuGS anD DRIVInG(N.J.S.A.39:4-49.1,39:4-50)It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle on New Jersey roadways under theinfluenceofany illegaldrugs.The labelsonbottlesofprescriptiondrugswilldescribecommonsideeffects.Drugsthat“maycausedrowsinessordizziness”should not be taken before driving. Ask a professional about how over-the-counter drugs may affect driving. Drugs that may affect basic driving skillsincludecoldpills,tranquilizersandsomeprescriptionmedications.

Never mix drugs without asking a medical professional about possible sideeffectsorhowthedrugmayaffectdriving.Alcoholshouldneverbemixedwithanydrugsormedications.

Ifasked,motoristsusingprescriptiondrugsmustshowproofoftheprescriptionto law enforcement. If a motorist does not have a prescription for the drug,and a prescription is necessary in order to obtain the drug, the drug will beconsideredillegal.

Afteralcohol,marijuana is thedrugmostoften foundwithdrivers involved incollisions.Marijuanausemayaffectamotoristinthefollowingways:

• loss of tracking ability:Thisistheabilitytomaintainavehicleinagivenline.

• distance judgment:Followingtoocloselycancauseproblems.

• Vigilance:Notremainingattentivetothedrivingtaskcancauseamotoristtofollowtooclosely,driftintoanotherlane,etc.

• divided attention:Drivingisataskthatrequiresconstantattentiontotraffic,roadwayandweatherconditions,passengers,gauges,etc.

HEalTHy DRIVInGheALthAnyhealthproblemcanaffectanindividual’sdriving.Evenlittleproblemslikeastiffneck,acoughorasorelegcangiveanindividualtroublewhiledriving.Ifamotoristisnotfeelingwell,he/sheshouldletsomeoneelsedrive.

visionVision is important to safe driving. Most of what a motorist does behind thewheelisbasedonwhathe/shesees.StatelawpermitstheMVCtoretest10percentofthedrivingpopulationeachyear.Amotoristshouldhavehis/hereyestestedeveryyearor two. Ifoverage40,amotoristshouldhavehis/hereyescheckedeveryyearforspecialproblems.

Good side vision (peripheral vision) is also essential for safe driving. Sidevision helps a motorist see out of the corners of his/her eyes while lookingstraightahead.

Distancejudgmentisalsoanimportantcomponenttodriving.Amotoristshouldknow his/her distance from any object while driving. Bad distance judgmentoftencausesaccidents.

heArinGHearingismoreimportanttodrivingthanmanypeoplethink.Itcanwarnamotoristofdanger.Thesoundofhorns,sirensorscreechingtireswarnsamotoristtobecareful.Amotoristmaybeabletohearacarthatcannotbeseen.

Evenpeoplewithgoodhearingcannothearwelliftheradioisblaringorhe/sheiswearingearphones.Amotoristshouldalwayskeeptheradioturneddownandneverwearearphones.

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Chapter 7

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Motor Vehicle ViolationsDriver ProgramsMotor Vehicle Surcharges and Point ViolationsPoint SystemMoving Violation Point ChartInterstate Compactswork licenses

116120122123125127127

DrIVer PrIVILeGes& PEnalTIES

The Driving PrivilegeDriving under the Influence (DuI)Mandatory Penaltiesbreath TestIgnition Interlock DeviceIntoxicated Driver Resource Center

110110111115115116

THE DRIVInG PRIVIlEGEDrivingisaprivilege,notaright.Statelawallowsorrequiresanindividual’sdrivingprivilegetobesuspendedforcertainmotorvehicleviolations,whichmeansthedriverlicensewillbetakenawayandthemotoristmaynotdriveforastatedperiodof time. Inaddition to licensesuspension,finesand imprisonmentmayalsobeimposedformovingviolations.Thelengthofsuspensiontimedependsonthelawthat isbrokenandhowmanyconvictionsamotorist receives.Likewise, licenserestorationdependsonthetypesofoffensesandthenumberofconvictions.Ahabitualoffender isamotoristwhosedriver licensehasbeensuspendedthreetimesinthreeyears.Toavoidanyproblems,itisimportanttoknowandobeyNewJersey’strafficlaws,whichareinplacetoprotecteverymotorist.

Some suspensions are decided on a case-by-case basis. If the sentence isnotmandatory,theChiefAdministratoroftheMVCorthecourtsmaysuspenddrivingprivileges.Reasonsforlossofdrivingprivilegesmayinclude,butisnotlimitedtothefollowingreasons:

• Failuretoappearincourtortopayfines

• Failuretopaymotorvehiclesurcharges

• Drivingwhilesuspended

• Failuretoprovideproofofinsurance

• Physicalormentaldisqualification

• Drugoralcoholuse

• Trafficlawviolations

• Atfaultinafatalaccident

• FailuretorespondtoanMVCnotice

TheMVCChiefAdministratormayalsorequireare-examinationofanypersonconsidered tobeaproblemdriver.This re-examinationwillhelp todeterminewhetherdrivingprivilegesshouldbesuspended.

DRIVInG unDER THE InfluEnCE (DuI)Driversunderage21(thelegalagetopurchase/consumeanalcoholicbeverage)foundwithabloodalcoholconcentration (BAC)at .01percentormorewhileoperatingamotorvehiclewillbepenalized(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.14).ThecurrentBACfordriversage21andolderis.08percent(N.J.S.A.39:4-50).

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InNewJersey,apersonmustbe21topurchase,possessorconsumealcoholicbeverages.Underagedrinkingisillegalandcanhavesevereconsequencesforyoungpeoplewhodrinkandforadultswhoprovidealcoholicbeveragestothoseunderage21.

If a driver under age 21 buys or drinks alcohol in a place with an alcoholicbeverage license,he/shemaybefined$500and losehis/her licenseforsixmonths.Ifapersonunderage21doesnothaveadriverlicense,thesuspensionstartswhenhe/sheisfirsteligibletoreceivealicense.Also,thepersonmayberequiredtoparticipateinanalcoholeducationortreatmentprogram.

mAnDAtory PenALties first offense/BAC .08% or more but less than .10% (n.J.S.A. 39:4-50)

• Three-monthsuspensionofdrivingprivilege

• $250to$400fine

• 12-to48-hourparticipationinanIntoxicatedDriverResourceCenter(IDRC)

• $230perdayIDRCfee

• Upto30daysimprisonment

• $100DrunkDrivingEnforcementFundfee(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.8)

• $100AlcoholEducation,RehabilitationandEnforcementFund(AERF)fee

• $1,000annualsurchargeforthreeyears

• $75SafeNeighborhoodServicesFundfee(N.J.S.A.2C:43-3.2)

• Possibleinterlockdevicerequirementforsixmonthstooneyear(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.17)

first offense/BAC .10% or more (n.J.S.A. 39:4-50)• Seven-monthtoone-yearsuspensionofdrivingprivilege

• $300to$500fine

• 12-to48-hourparticipationinanIntoxicatedDriverResource

Center(IDRC)

• $230perdayIDRCfee

• Upto30daysimprisonment

• $100DrunkDrivingEnforcementFundfee(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.8)

• $100AlcoholEducation,RehabilitationandEnforcementFundfee

• $1,000annualsurchargeforthreeyears

• $75SafeNeighborhoodServicesFundfee(N.J.S.A.2C:43-3.2)

• Possibleinterlockdevicerequirementforsixmonthstooneyear(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.17)

Underage first offense/BAC .01% or more but less than .08%(n.J.S.A. 39:4-50.14)

• 30-to90-daysuspensionofdrivingprivilege(onthedaymotoristbecomeseligibletoobtainalicenseoronthedayofconviction,whicheverislater)

• 15to30dayscommunityservice

• ParticipationinanIntoxicatedDriverResourceCenter(IDRC)oralcoholeducationandhighwaysafetyprogram,asprescribedbytheMVCChiefAdministrator.

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driVing

offenSe

ConViCtion

loSS of

liCenSe 1

fineS, feeS,

SUrChArgeSimpriSonment

CommUnitY

SerViCe (CS),

idrC2 or

detAinment

Alcohol-ordrug-related(DUI)3

firstoffense

3monthsto

1year

$250-$500fine;$1,000ayrfor3yrssurcharge;$230perdayIDRCfee;$100drunkdrivingfund;$75SafeNeigh-borhoodServicesFund$100AERF

Upto30days 12-48hrsIDRC


secondoffensethatoccurswithin10yrsoffirstoffense

2years $500-$1,000fine$1,000ayrfor3yrssurcharge;$280perdayIDRCfee;$100drunkdrivingfund;$75SafeNeighborhoodServicesFund$100AERF

48hrs-90days 12-48hrsIDRC

30daysCS


thirdoffensethatoccurswithin10yrsofsecondoffense

10years $1,000fine$1,500ayrfor3yrssurcharge;$280perdayIDRCfee;$100drunkdrivingfund;$75SafeNeigh-borhoodServicesFund$100AERF

180days 12-48hrsIDRC

Upto90days

CS,whichcan

reduceaperiod

ofimprisonment

Drinkingalco-

holicbeverages

whiledrivingor

riding

N/A $200fine,first

offense

$250fine,second

offense

N/A N/A

driVing

offenSe

ConViCtion

loSS of

liCenSe1

fineS, feeS,

SUrChArgeSimpriSonment

CommUnitY

SerViCe (CS),

idrC2 or

detAinment

Drinkingalco-holicbeverageswhiledrivingorriding(secondoffense)

N/A $250fine N/A 10daysCS

DrivingonDUIsuspension

Additional

1-2yrs4

$500fine;$250peryrfor3yrssurcharge

10-90days N/A

Drivingwithnoinsurance(firstoffense)

1year $300-$1,000fine;$250peryrfor3yrssurcharge

N/A CSdeterminedbycourt

Drivingwithnoinsurance(sec-ondoffense)

2years Upto$5,000fine;$250peryearfor3yrssurcharge

14days 30daysCS

Drivingwithpos-

sessingdrugs

2years Min.$50fine N/A N/A

1Underagedrinkingmaycauseasix-monthdelaytogetalicense.2IntoxicatedDriverResourceCenter.3Drivingundertheinfluence(DUI).Alcohol-anddrug-relatedoffensesrequirecompletionofanalcoholscreeningandevaluationprogram.4Alsosuspendsregistrationsforthesameperiod.

The courts may require DUI offenders to use ignition interlock devices on theirmotor vehicles. An interlock device (see page 117) is attached to a motor vehicleto prevent it from being started when the alcohol level of the motorist’s breathexceeds a predetermined amount. The interlock requirement is in addition to anyother penalty required under the state’s drunk driving statute. Installation is for sixmonthstothreeyears,beginningwhenthemotorist’sdriverlicensehasbeenrestoredfollowingsuspension.

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bREaTH TEST (N.J.S.A.39:4-50.4a)New Jersey has an implied consent law. This means that motorists on NewJerseyroadwayshaveagreed,simplybyusingNewJerseyroadways,tosubmittoabreathtestgivenbylawenforcementorhospitalstafffollowinganarrestforadrinking-and-drivingoffense.Motoristswhorefusetotakeabreathtestwillbedetainedandbroughttoahospital,wherehospitalstaffmaydrawblood.

Motorists who refuse to take a breath test in New Jersey are subject to anMVCinsurancesurchargeof$1,000peryearforthreeyears.Failuretopaythissurchargewillresultinanindefinitesuspensionofdrivingprivilegesuntilthefeeispaid.Motoristswhorefusetotakeabreathtestwillbedetainedandbroughttoahospital,wherehospitalstaffmaydrawblood.

Under state law, refusal to takeabreath test is equal todrivingwith aBACof .10percentforafirstoffense.Thecurrentpenaltyforrefusalisthelossofdrivingprivilegesforbetweensevenmonthsandoneyear,torunconcurrentlyorconsecutively,baseduponajudge’sorder.

IGnITIOn InTERlOCk DEVICE(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.17)AmotoristwhoisconvictedofaDUIoffensemustinstallanignitioninterlockdeviceinanymotorvehicletheyown,leaseoroperateduringandaftertheentireperiodforwhichtheirdrivingprivilegeissuspended.Thisdeviceisattachedtothevehiclewithabuilt-inBreathalyzerandpreventsthevehiclefromstartingifthemotorist’sBACexceeds.05percent.Theinterlockrequirementisinadditiontoanyotherpenaltyrequiredunderthestate’sdrunkdrivingstatute.

•first dUi offense with BAC of less than 0.15%: Installationofignitioninterlockdeviceforsixmonthstooneyearfromthedateofdrivingprivilegerestoration(judge’sdiscretion)

•first dUi offense with BAC of 0.15% or higher OR refusal to Submit to Breath test offense: Installationofignitioninterlockdeviceduringsuspensionandforsixmonthstooneyearfromthedateofdrivingprivilegerestoration

•Second or Subsequent dUi OR refusal to Breath test offense: Installationofignitioninterlockdeviceduringsuspensionforonetothreeyearsfromthedateofdrivingprivilegerestoration

Ifthecourtsentencesamotoristtoinstallaninterlockdevice,he/shewillreceivean MVC notice explaining how to obtain the device, as well as an additionalMVC notice confirming the suspension. An approved list of interlock devicemanufacturerscanbefoundontheMVC’sWebsiteatwww.njmvc.gov.

InTOxICaTED DRIVER RESOuRCE CEnTERState law requires that any motorist charged with an alcohol-related trafficoffensemustbedetainedatanIDRC.EachofNewJersey’s21countieshasanIDRCwherefirst-andthird-timeoffendersaredetained.Second-timeoffendersaredetainedatoneof three regional IDRCs.TheN.J.DepartmentofHealthandSeniorServices,DivisionofAddictionServices,andtheIntoxicatedDrivingProgramcoordinatesallIDRCs.

Duringdetention,alloffendersattendanalcoholandhighwaysafetyeducationprogram.Thecenterevaluateseachoffender foranalcoholordrugproblemanddeterminestheneedfortreatment.Thosedeemedinneedoftreatmentarereferredtoanappropriateproviderforatleasta16-weektreatmentprogram.

Satisfactory participation in a state-assigned program is a condition forre-licensing.Failuretocomplywillresultinfurtherlossofdrivingprivilegesandthepossibilityofimprisonment.

MOTOR VEHIClE VIOlaTIOnS • Unsafe driving: A conviction of unsafe driving that endangers a person

orproperty requirespaymentofafineofnot less than$50ormore than$150forafirstoffense;notlessthan$100ormorethan$250forasecondoffense; and not less than $200 or more than $500 for a third offense.Motoristmaybeassessedmotorvehiclepenaltypointsiftheoffenseoccurswithinfiveyearsoftheprioroffense.Thereisalsoa$250courtsurchargeforeachoffense(N.J.S.A.39:4-97.2).

• reckless driving: Drivingrecklesslyinamannerthatwillfullyendangerstherights,propertyorsafetyofothersispunishablebyimprisonmentofupto60days,orbyafineofnotlessthan$50ormorethan$200,orbothforafirstoffense(N.J.S.A.39:4-96).Pointsareassessed.

• Abandoning a vehicle: Motoristswhoabandontheirmotorvehiclesonoralonglimited-accesshighwaysforfourhoursormorewithoutpermissionaresubjecttoafineofnotlessthan$100ormorethan$500andpossiblelossofdrivingprivilegesforuptotwoyears.Forsubsequentviolationsthefineisnotlessthan$500ormorethan$1,000,andthesuspensionisuptofiveyears.Thesamepenaltiesapplywhenownersabandontheirvehiclesonanyhighwayorpublicpropertywithoutconsentfor48hoursormoreandwhenownersabandontheirvehiclesforanyperiodwithoutcurrentlicenseplates(N.J.S.A.39:4-56.5).

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• Carrying alcoholic beverages: Motorists who carry open or unsealedalcoholic beverage containers in passenger areas of motor vehiclesaresubject toafineof$200 forafirstoffenseand$250or10daysofcommunityserviceforallsubsequentoffenses(N.J.S.A.39:4-51a).

• ice and snow: Motoristsofprivatevehiclesfacefinesof$200to$1,000foreachtimeicefliesfromtheirvehiclesandcausesdeath,injuryorpropertydamage.Fines for commercial ownersandoperators range from$500 to$1,500(N.J.S.A.39:4-77.1).

• highway construction zones: Speedingorothermovingviolationsinareasundergoinghighwayconstructionmeandoubledfines.Someoffensesincludereckless driving, careless driving, speeding, improper passing, tailgating,improperturns,failuretoobservetrafficlanes,failuretoobserveatrafficsignalorsignandfailuretoobeydirectionsofanofficer(N.J.S.A.39:4-203.5).

• 65 mph zone: Speeding10mphormoreabove thepostedspeed limitorothercertainmovingviolationsina65-mphspeedzonemeansdoubledfines.Someoffensesincluderacingonapublichighway,refusaltocomplywithanofficer’s request, or failure toobey traffic signsor signals, failure to complywithrulesforpassinganothervehicle,failuretoobeyroadmarkings,failuretoobservedistancebetweenvehiclesandcarelessdriving(N.J.S.A.39:4-98.6).

• failure to comply: Motorists facea$50fine if they fail tocomplywithapoliceofficer’srequesttoilluminatethedriver’scompartmentofthevehiclewhenstopped(N.J.S.A.39:4-57.1).

• insurance fraud: Motoristsconvictedof fraudon insuranceapplicationsandclaimsformsmayreceivefinesofupto$5,000,orimprisonmentforuptothreeyears,orboth.Intheeventthemotoristfraudulentlyreceives$500orless,he/shemaybefinedupto$500and/orimprisonedfornotmorethansixmonthsasadisorderlyperson.Inaddition,apersonconvictedofanautomobileinsurancecrimewilllosehis/herdriverlicenseforoneyear(N.J.S.A.39:6A-15).

• drug offense: ANewJerseymotorist’sdrivingprivilegeswillbesuspendedafterhe/sheisconvictedofdrugoffensesinanyfederalorstatecourt.

• hit-and-run: Ahit-and-runinvolvingbodilyinjuryordeathresultsinafineof$2,500to$5,000and/or180daysinjailforthemotorist.Inaddition,forafirstoffense,themotoristloseshis/herlicenseforoneyear.Forsubsequentoffense,themotoristpermanentlyloseshis/herlicense(N.J.S.A.39:4-129).

• lying on application: Lying when applying for a license or registrationwill result in a fine of not less than $200 or more than $500 and/or uptosixmonthsimprisonment.Amotoristwillalsolosehis/herdriver licenseprivilegesforsixmonthstotwoyears(N.J.S.A.39:3-37).

• forgery and fraud: Altering, forging and/or possession with intent todistributeafacsimileofaN.J.driverlicenseisillegalandwillresultinuptoa$150,000 fine, up to 10 years in prison and a driver license suspension(N.J.S.A.2C:21-2.1).

• driving while suspended: Drivingwhileadriverlicenseand/orregistration

issuspendedcanresultinthefollowingpenalties:–Firstoffense:Fineof$500anduptosixmonthsadditional

licenseandorregistrationsuspension(N.J.S.A.39:3-40)–Secondoffense:Fineof$750,jailsentencefornotmorethan

fivedaysanduptosixmonthsadditionallicenseand/orregistrationsuspension(N.J.S.A.39:3-40)

–Thirdoffense:Fineof$1,000,a10-dayjailsentenceanduptosixmonthsadditionallicenseand/orregistrationsuspension(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

Additional penalties for driving while suspended:• Driving while suspended for failing to pay an insurance surcharge will

resultinanadditional$3,000fine,plusthefinesandpenaltieslistedabove(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

• Drivingwhilealicenseand/orregistrationissuspendedforfailuretoproperlyinsure a vehicle will result in a fine of $500, an additional driver licensesuspensionofonetotwoyearsandpossiblecourtorderedimprisonmentforupto90days(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

• Drivingwhilealicenseand/orregistrationissuspendedandhavingacollisionthatcausesinjurytoanotherpersonwillresultinafine,continuedsuspensionandthepotentialforaminimum45-dayjailsentence(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

• Drivingwhilealicenseand/orregistrationissuspendedforadrugoralcoholoffense,refusaltotakeabreathtestorifthemotoristisahabitualoffender,willresultinafineof$500andanadditionallicensesuspensionofonetotwo years and/or possible court-ordered imprisonment for 10 to 90 days(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

• Driving while a driving privilege is suspended due to driving while under

theinfluence,refusaltosubmittoachemicaltestorforahabitualoffenderoffense,anddrivingonschoolpropertyorwithin1,000feetofschoolpropertyorthroughaschoolcrossingzonewillresultinonetotwoyearsadditionalsuspensiontime,a$500fineandbetween60to90daysimprisonmentforafirstoffense.Forsecondandthirdoffenses,thesuspensionandfinesremainthesame,buttheimprisonmenttermisincreasedto120to150daysand180days,respectively(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

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• Drivingafterfailingtoinstallaninterlockdevice,asorderedbythecourt,resultsinaone-yearsuspension,inadditiontoanyothersuspensionsalreadyimposed,andmayincludepenaltiesasadisorderlyperson(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.19).

other violations:• Amotoristwhorefusestosubmittoachemicaltestanddrivingonanyschool

propertyorwithin1,000feetofschoolpropertyorthroughaschoolcrossingzone.Motoristwillreceiveforafirstoffensea$600to$1,000fineandaone-totwo-yeardrivingprivilegesuspension;forsecondoffensesthefineis$1,000to$2,000andthedrivingprivilegewillbesuspendedforfouryears.Forathirdoffense,thefineis$2,000andthedrivingprivilegeissuspendedfor20years(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.4a).

• A vehicle owner who knowingly allows another motorist, who is currentlysuspended for driving while intoxicated or suspended for refusal tosubmit to a chemical test, to operate his or her vehicle. The resultis a fine of no more than $1,000, imprisonment for no more than 15days or both. A vehicle owner who violates this law on three or moreoccassions would also be subject to a 90-day driver’s license suspension.(N.J.S.A.39:3-40).

• Amotoristwholoansalicensetoanothermotorist.He/shemaybefined$200to$500,facejailtimeandfaceasuspensionoflicense.

• Amotoristwhohasanotherpersontakethedrivingtest.Motoristmaybefined$200to$500and/orimprisonmentfrom30to90days.Thedriverlicensemayalsoberevoked(N.J.S.A.39:3-37).

• Failuretoappearatanyscheduledcourtproceedingwhenchargedwithanon-indictablecriminaloffense,anordinanceviolationoramotorvehicleoffense.Itwillresultinacourt-ordereddriverlicensesuspensionuntilthependingmatterissettled(2B:12-31).

• Failuretomeettheconditionsofasentenceimposed(suchastopayafine,makerestitutionorperformcommunityservice).Itwillresultinacourt-ordereddriverlicensesuspension(2B:12-31).

• Failuretopayatotalofsixmonths’court-orderedchildsupportorprovidehealthinsurance.Ifachildsupport-relatedwarrantexistsinthemotoristsname,thecourtscanorderbasicandcommercialdriver licensesandprofessionaloccupationallicensestobesuspendeduntilpaymentsaremade(N.J.S.A.2A:17-56.44).

• A boater convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) on New Jersey’swaterwayswillbesuspendedfrombothboatingandalldriverlicenseprivilegesandbefined$250to$400forthefirstoffense,$500to$1,000forthesecondoffenseand$1,000forthethirdoffense.Violatorsunder17yearsofagewill

have their vehicleandmoped licenseprivilegesdelayed for threemonths,sixmonthsand twoyears forfirst, secondand thirdoffenses, respectively(N.J.S.A.12:7-46).

driving under the influence (dUi) convictions: • Amotoristcaughtwithapassengerunder18yearsofageat the timeof

theviolationwill faceadisorderlypersonsoffense,will receivesuspensionofdrivingprivilegesfornotmorethansixmonthsandwillperformuptofivedaysofcommunityservice(N.J.S.A.39:4-50.15).

if an individual:• Is at least 13 years old but under 18 years of age, he/she may have

driving privileges suspended or postponed for a graffiti conviction(N.J.S.A.2A:4A-43.3).

• Setsfalsealarmsandisunder21yearsofage,mopedorothermotorvehicleprivilegeswillbesuspendedorpostponedforsixmonths.Ifunder17yearsofageatthetimeofconviction,drivingprivilegeswillbesuspendedimmediatelyand until six months after the day the person reaches 17 years of age.Additionally,thecourtsmayapplycivilpenalties(N.J.S.A.2C:33-3.1).

DRIVER PROGRaMSDriver imProvement ProGrAmMotoristswhoaccumulatebetween12and14pointsina24-monthperiodwillreceiveaNoticeofScheduledSuspensionbymailfromtheMVC.

Upon receiving the notice, a motorist can do one of the following:• AttendaNewJerseyDriverImprovementProgram• Requestahearing• Surrenderhis/herdriverlicenseforthesuspensionperiod

TheMVCChiefAdministratororanadministrative law judgewilldetermine ifdrivingprivilegesshouldbesuspendedforamotoristwhoisgrantedahearing.A motorist who successfully completes a Driver Improvement Program willhavethreepointsremovedfromhis/herrecord(N.J.S.A.39:5-30.9).Theclassfeeis$150(N.J.A.C.13:19-10.3(c).AftercompletionofaDriverImprovementProgram or after restoration of a motorist’s driving privilege, he/she will bein a probationary period for one year. Any violations that occur during thisprobationary period will result in a scheduled suspension of the motorist’sdrivingprivileges.

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Defensive DrivinG coursesMostroadcollisionsarecausedbymotoristerror.Toreducethelikelihoodofbeinginvolvedinacollision,amotoristneedstounderstandtheconceptofdefensivedriving. These voluntary courses provide a motorist with standard collision-preventingtechniques.Uponcompletionofthedefensivedrivingcourse:

• Twopointswillberemovedfromtheaccumulatedpointscurrentlyonadriverlicense(N.J.S.A.39:5-30.9).

• Themotoristmayqualifyforaninsuranceratereduction.Contactaninsuranceagentformoreinformation.

• TheMVCwillonlyrecognizeadefensivedrivingcourseonceeveryfiveyearsforpointreduction(N.J.S.A.39:5-30.9).

Inadditiontoclassroom-basedcourses,motoristsalsohavetheoptionoftakinganonlineDefensiveDrivingCourse.TheMVCprovidesalistofapprovedonlineproviders.Foralistofstate-approveddefensivedrivingcourses,checktheMVCWebsite,www.state.nj.us/mvc/licenses/defensive.htm.

ProbAtionAry Driver ProGrAmAmotoristbeginsatwo-yearprobationarydriverperiodafterreceivingaspeciallearner or examination permit. During this probationary period, a motoristconvictedof twoormoremovingviolations totaling fourormorepointsmustenroll in theProbationaryDriverProgram,which isadministeredby theMVC(N.J.A.C. 13:19-10.3(d). The attendance fee is $150 for this program, whichcorrectsimproperordangerousdrivinghabits(N.J.A.C.13:19-10.3f).

Completionofthisprogramwillresultinathree-pointreductiononanindividualmotorist’shistoryrecord.Failuretocompletetheprogramorconvictionofoneor more subsequent moving violations during the test period will result in asuspensionofdrivingprivileges.

ViolAtion SUrChArge

Unlicenseddriver(N.J.A.C.13:19-13.1) $100

Noinsurance–moped(N.J.A.C.13:19-13.1) $100

Drivingwhilesuspended(CourtorMVCreported)(N.J.A.C.

13:19-13.2)$250

Noliabilityinsuranceonmotorvehicle(N.J.A.C.13:19-13.2) $250

DUI/Refusal $1,000

DUI/Refusal(thirdandsubsequentconvictions) $1,500

mAture Driver ProGrAmA mature driver should constantly re-evaluate his/her driving skills. Driverimprovementcoursesareavailabletomaturedriversatvariousdrivingschoolsorthroughspecificorganizations.

Forexample, theAmericanAssociationofRetiredPersons(AARP)offers55Alive, amotorist improvement course that is specially designed for motoristsage50andolder.Theeight-hourcoursehelpsmotorists refineexistingskillsanddevelopsafedefensivedrivingtechniques.AnaddedbonusisthatinNewJersey,thecoursemayqualifymotoristswhosuccessfullycompletethecoursetoaminimumfivepercentvehicleinsurancediscount.

Tofindoutmoreaboutthiscourse,callAARPtoll-freeat(888)227-7669.Checkwithinsurancecompaniesabouthowcompletingthecoursewillaffectapremium.

MOTOR VEHIClE SuRCHaRGES anD POInT VIOlaTIOnSMotoristswhoaccumulatesixormorepointswithinthreeyearsaresubjecttoasurchargeof$150forsixpointsand$25foreachadditionalpoint.Surchargesare levied in addition to any court-imposed fines and penalties. Surchargeswillremainoperationalifamotoristhassixormorepointsonhis/hermotoristrecordresultingfromviolationspostedintheprecedingthreeyears.Pointtotalsarebasedonthedatetheviolationsarepostedtoamotorist’srecord,notwhentheviolationsoccurred(N.J.S.A.17:29A-35).

Point system reductions in the Driver Improvement Program, the PointSystem and Defensive Driving Program sections do not apply to themotor vehicle surcharge system. Convicted or administratively suspendedmotorists must pay a prescribed dollar amount each year for three years.

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Ways to pay a motor vehicle surcharge bill: • MailpaymenttoNJ-MVVS,P.O.Box4850,Trenton,NJ08650-4850.

• Payonlineatwww.njmvc.gov (onlineservices).

• Usecharge-by-phone:calltollfree(888) 651-9999(usingAmericanExpress,MasterCard,VisaorDiscover).

• VisitanMVCRegionalServiceCenterorselectagenciesinperson.

Restoration fees may also be paid when making a motor vehicle surchargepaymentusingthecharge-by-phone.Failuretopayanymotorvehiclesurchargeswillresultintheindefinitesuspensionofalldrivingprivileges.TheMVCmayfileajudgmentactioninthestateSuperiorCourtforunpaidsurcharges,securealienagainstanyrealpropertythatamotoristowns,fileforagarnishmentofwagesor take other similar actions (N.J.S.A.17:29A-35). Motor vehicle convictionsmay increase automobile insurance premiums assessed by a motorist’sinsurancecompany.

POInT SySTEMThe MVC keeps track of a motorist’s driving record by adding points to therecordwhenthemotoristisconvictedofamovingviolation.Themoreserioustheviolation,themorepointsthemotoristisgiven.Seethefollowingpointchartforvariousviolations.Foranexpandedorupdated listofpointviolations,visitwww.njcourtsonline.com.

AllpointviolationsafterMarch1,1974,willstayonamotorist’sdrivingrecord.Twopointswillbeaddedtoadrivingrecordfortrafficviolationscommittedinotherstates.

Uptothreepointswillbesubtractedfromamotorist’spointtotalforeveryyearthatthemotoristgoeswithoutaviolationorsuspension,butthepointtotalwillneverbereducedbelowzero(N.J.S.A.39:5-30.9).

Traffic lawsareenforceableonhighways, roadways,parkingareas,drivewaysand grounds owned and maintained by government entities. Also, motoristsconvictedofrecklessorcarelessdrivinginanyareaopentovehiculartrafficorusagewillbesubjecttothechargesapplicabletothatmovingviolation.

StAtUteS ViolAtionpoint

VAlUe

N.J.S.A.27:23-29 Movingagainsttraffic:NewJerseyTurnpike,Gar-denStateParkway,andAtlanticCityExpressway

2

N.J.S.A.27:23-29 Improperpassing:NewJerseyTurnpike,GardenStateParkway,andAtlanticCityExpressway

4

N.J.S.A.27:23-29 Unlawfuluseofmedianstrip:NewJerseyTurnpike,GardenStateParkway,andAtlanticCityExpress-way

2

N.J.S.A.39:3-20 Operatingaconstructorvehicleinexcessof45mph

3

N.J.S.A.39:4-14.3 Operatingamotorizedbicycleonarestrictedhigh-way

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-14.3d Morethanonepersononamotorizedbicycle 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-35 Failuretoyieldtoapedestrianinacrosswalk 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-36 Failuretostopforpedestrianincrosswalk;passingavehicleyieldingtoapedestrianinacrosswalk

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-41 Drivingthroughasafetyzone 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-52and39:5C-1

Racingonhighway5

N.J.S.A.39:4-55 Improperactionoromissionongradesandcurves 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-57 Failuretoobserveadirectionofanofficer 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-66 Failuretostopavehiclebeforecrossingasidewalk 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-66.1 Failuretoyieldtopedestriansorvehicleswhileenteringorleavingahighway

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-66.2 Operatingamotorvehicleonpublicorprivateprop-ertytoavoidatrafficcontrolsignalorsign

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-71 Operatingamotorvehicleonasidewalk 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-80 Failuretoobeyadirectionofanofficer 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-81 Failuretoobservetrafficsignals 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-82 Failuretokeepright 2

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VAlUe

N.J.S.A.39:4-82.1 Improperoperatingofavehicleonadividedhigh-wayordivider

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-83 Failuretokeeprightatanintersection 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-84 Failuretopassrightofvehicleproceedinginoppositedirection

5

N.J.S.A.39:4-85 Improperpassingonrightoroffroadway 4

N.J.S.A.39:4-85.1 Wrongwayonaone-waystreet 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-86 Improperpassinginanopassingzone 4

N.J.S.A.39:4-87 Failuretoyieldtoanovertakingvehicle 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-88 Failuretoobservetrafficlanes 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-89 Tailgating 5

N.J.S.A.39:4-90 Failuretoyieldatanintersection 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-90.1 Failuretouseproperentrancestolimitedaccesshighways

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-91and39:4-92

Failuretoyieldtoemergencyvehicles2

N.J.S.A.39:4-96 Recklessdriving 5

N.J.S.A.39:4-97 Carelessdriving 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-97a Destructionofagriculturalorrecreationalproperty 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-97.1 Slowspeedblockingtraffic 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-97.2 Drivinginanunsafemanner(pointsonlyassessed

forthethirdorsubsequentviolation(s)withinafive

yearperiod)4

N.J.S.A.39:4-98and39:4-99

Exceedingmaximumspeed1-14mphoverthelimit 2

Exceedingmaximumspeed15-29mphoverthe

limit4

Exceedingmaximumspeed30mphormoreover

thelimit5



VAlUe

N.J.S.A.39:4-105 Failuretostopforatrafficlight 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-115 Improperturnatatrafficlight 3

N.J.S.A.39:4-119 Failuretostopataflashingredsignal 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-122 Failuretostopforapolicewhistle 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-123 Improperrightorleftturn 3

N.J.S.A.39:4-124 Improperturnfromanapprovedturningcourse 3

N.J.S.A.39:4-125 ImproperU-turn 3

N.J.S.A.39:4-126 Failuretogivepropersignal 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-127 Improperbackingorturninginstreet 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-127.1 Impropercrossingofarailroadgradecrossing 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-127.2 Impropercrossingofabridge 2

N.J.S.A.39:4-128 Impropercrossingofarailroadgradecrossingbycertainvehicles

2

N.J.S.A.39:4-128.1 Improperpassingofaschoolbus 5

N.J.S.A.39:4-128.4 Improperpassingofafrozendesserttruck 4

N.J.S.A.39:4-129 Leavingthesceneofanaccident

Nopersonalinjury 2

Personalinjury 8

N.J.S.A.39:4-144 FailuretoobserveStoporYieldsigns 2

N.J.S.A.39:5D-4 Movingviolationoutofstate 2


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InTERSTaTE COMPaCTSNew Jersey belongs to two interstate compacts. Member states exchangeinformation toensuremotoristcompliancewith the lawand that they receivepenaltiesforviolations.

The Non-resident Violator Compact assures that non-resident motorists inmember states will receive the same treatment as resident motorists. Whenmotoristsreceivetrafficcitationsinmemberstates,theymustfulfillthetermsofthatcitationorfacethepossibilityoflicensesuspensionintheirhomestateuntilthey meet those terms. Non-resident motorists have due process protectionandcannotbedetainedoutof state.Currently,44statesand theDistrict ofColumbiaaremembersofthecompact.Alaska,California,Michigan,Montana,Oregon and Wisconsin are non-members. The compact does not apply toparkingorstandingviolations,highwayweightlimitviolationsandviolationsofhazmattransportationlaws(N.J.S.A.39:5F-1through39:5F-30).

TheDriverLicenseCompactexchangesviolationinformationwithotherstatesandtheDistrictofColumbia.Out-of-stateviolationsbecomepartofamotorist’sNewJerseydrivingrecord.Georgia,Massachusetts,Michigan,TennesseeandWisconsinarenon-memberstates(N.J.S.A.39:5D-1through39:5D-14).

wORk lICEnSESNewJerseydoesnotallowconditionalorspecialworklicenses.Ifamotoristloseshis/her licenseforanyreason,driving isnotpermittedforanyreasonuntil theperiodofsuspensionendsandthemotoristreceivesanoticeofrestoration.

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PedestriansMature DriversVisually Challenged PersonsMotorcyclesTrucks, Tractor-Trailers and busesno-Zone PrincipleMotorized Scooters low-Speed Vehicles

130132132133133134137138

sharing the road with Others

Itisimportantforamotoristtorememberthathe/sheisnottheonlyoneusingtheroadways.Frompeopletoanimalstoothertypesofvehicles,itisamotorist’sresponsibilitytoknowhowtosafelysharetheroadwithothers.

PEOPlEPeDestriAnsSince2008,approximately150pedestrianshavebeenkilledannuallyintraffic-relatedcrashesonNewJerseyroadways.In2009,afterathree-yeardownwardtrend,thenumberofpedestriandeathsstatewideincreasedto157.Additionally,since2004,morethan30,000pedestrianshavebeeninjuredinmotor-vehiclerelatedcrashesstatewide.

Manyofthemeasuresdesignedtomakeroadssaferformotorists,suchaslargemediansandwideshoulders,maketheroadsmoretreacherousforpedestrians.Vehicle-pedestriancollisionshaveafivepercentfatalityrateifthecarisgoing20mph,buttheratejumpsto85percentat40mph.

Pedestrianactivityisatitsgreatestindenselydevelopedareas,suchascitiesand town centers, but it also is significant in neighborhoods and along andacrosssuburbanroadways.Motoristsshouldtakespecialprecautionstowatchforpedestrians.

Inmostcases,pedestrianshavetherightofwayatallintersections.Thereisacrosswalkateveryintersection;evenitisnotpaintedassuch.Thisisknownasan “unmarked crosswalk.” Pedestrians must obey pedestrian signals and usecrosswalks at signalized intersections. Both carry a $54.00 fine for failure toobservethe law.(39:4-32and33).Thepenaltyforpedestriansunder17whoviolatethepedestrianlawsisa$22fine.(39:4-203.3).

Motoristsareprohibitedfromblockingthecrosswalkwhenstoppedataredlightorstopsign.Amotoristmustnotstopwithaportionofhis/hervehicle in thecrosswalkarea.Whenamotoristblocksacrosswalk,itforcespedestrianstogoaroundavehicle,puttingthemindanger.

Amotoristmuststopandstaystoppedforapedestriancrossingtheroadwaywithinamarkedcrosswalkorwithinanyunmarkedcrosswalkatanintersection,exceptatcrosswalkswhenthemovementoftrafficisbeingregulatedbypoliceofficers or traffic control signals, or where otherwise prohibited by municipal,county,orStateregulation,andexceptwhereapedestriantunneloroverheadpedestrian crossing has been provided. No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a

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curborotherplaceofsafetyandwalkorrunintothepathofavehiclewhichissoclosethatitisimpossibleforthedrivertoyield.Amotoristinviolationofthislawmayfaceafineupto$200.Thecourtmayalsoimposeatermofcommunityservicenottoexceed15days.(39:4-36)

Ifapedestriansuffersseriousbodilyinjuryasaresultofamotorist’sviolationofN.J.S.A.39:4-36,themotoristissubjecttoa$100-$500fine,upto25daysinjailand/oradrivingprivilegesuspensionofupto6months.

Neverpassavehiclestoppedatacrosswalk(N.J.S.A.39:4-36).Thisfrequentlycausessevereinjuryordeathtopedestrians,especiallyifthepassingvehicleistravelingatahighspeed.Whenstoppingforacrosswalkonamulti-laneroad,amotoristshouldstopabout30feetbeforeacrosswalktoavoidblockingvisibilityofamotoristinthesecondlane.

Motoristsshouldwatchforsignsthatmarkspecialhazardareas,suchasschoolzones,busstops,playgrounds,parksandschools,wherechildrenaremostlikelytoplayorcrossthestreets.Childrenchasingaball,forinstance,givenothoughtto traffic.Small childrenarehard to see.Alwayswatch formovement aroundparkedvehicles.

Motorists should drive cautiously along roadways with on-street parking, aspedestriansmayappear from between parked vehicles. Motorists travelingatlowerspeedswillhaveagreaterability tostopthevehicleandavoidpotentialconflictswithpedestrians.

Pedestriansandjoggersshouldalwaysfaceoncomingtrafficandusesidewalkswhenavailable.Theyshouldcrossatcrosswalksonlyonthepropersignal,lookallwaysbeforecrossing,avoidcrossingbetweenparkedvehicles,andatnight,wearlight-coloredorreflectiveclothesandcarryawhitehandkerchieforalight.Itisnotagoodpracticetowearheadphoneswhilewalkingorjoggingneartheroadway.

Atnight,motoristsshouldwatchforanyonewalkingalongahighwayandexerciseduecaution.Noneoftheaboveabsolvesmotoristsfromtheirdutytobeextravigilantinwatchingforpedestriansontheroadway.

Alwayswatchforpedestrians.Beextracarefulatintersections,particularlywhenmakinganallowedrightturnonred.Motoristsarerequiredtostopforpedestrianswhohavetheright-of-waywithinacrosswalkandtothosewhoarecrossingatan intersection.Bealert forpedestrianswhenmaking turnsandenteringandexitingdriveways,parkinglotsandalleys.

mAture DriversOneoutoffourNewJerseyresidentsis55yearsorolder.Thisratioisexpectedtoincreaseinthecomingyears.Mobilitybydrivingisessentialforthisgroup.

Normal physical changes are part of the aging process. Mature drivers mayexperiencedeclinesinvision,hearing,reactiontimeandflexibility.

Theycancontinuetodrivesafelybylearningtocompensateforthesechangesbyfollowingtheseimportanttips:

• Choosethetimeandtheroadthatisbestsuitedtodrivingability.

• Chooseawell-litroadwayfornightdriving.

• Stayalertwhendrivingtocompensateforanydeclinesinvision,hearingorreactiontime.

• Keepinformationonpublictransportation,taxiservicesandseniorrideprogramscurrentandonhandincaseanalternativetransportationmodeisneeded.

• Sharedrivingtimewithanotherperson.

• Keepdriverlicensecurrent.

• Enrollinadefensive-drivingordrivingrefreshercourse.

• Visitanophthalmologist,optometristoropticianannuallyforavisionandeyeglassescheck.Haveeyescheckedimmediatelyifvisionproblemsareexperienced.

• Askadoctororpharmacistifthemedicationstakencanaffectdriving.

• Neverdriveiftakinganymedicationsandconsumingalcohol.

• Donotdrinkalcoholicbeveragesinanyquantityanddrive.

• Acceptthejudgmentoffamilyandfriendsaboutdrivingskills.Askthemto

rateskills,andimproveordiscontinuedrivingifthereisaconcernforsafety.

Note:Retestingfordriversmayberequiredafteraseriouscollisionormedicalproblem.

visuALLy chALLenGeD PersonsThe law isveryspecific thatvehiclesmustgive the right-of-waywhenanyofthe following crosses any highway or intersection: blind persons who use apredominantlywhiteormetallic cane, blindpersonsaccompaniedbyaguidedog,oraguidedoginstructorengagedin instructingaguidedog.Amotoristmuststopwhenhe/sheseesapersonwithawhiteormetallic“colored”caneorwithaguidedog.Allmotoristsmustcomplywiththislaw(N.J.S.A.39:4-37.1).

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VEHIClESmotorcycLesBeAlert!Thelawsgoverningfour-wheelvehiclessuchascarsandtrucksalsogovernmotorcycles.However,aridermayreactdifferentlytosituationswhencompared to other motorists. Always keep in mind several key items whensharingtheroadwithmotorcycles:

• Beawareofslippery,slopedorunevensurfacesorgroovesandgratingsintheroadway.Thesepresentpotentialhazardsformotorcycleriders.

• Checkblindspotstwicebeforechanginglanesormakingturns.• Watchformotorcyclesatintersectionsandwhenmakingaleftturn.• Alwayssignalintentions• Anticipatearider’smaneuvertoavoidobstructionsthatmaybeminimaltoa

carortruck,butdangeroustoamotorcycle.• Alwaysleaveplentyofroombetweenanautomobileandamotorcycle.• Neverfollowamotorcycletoocloselybecausemotorcycleshavetheability

tobrakewithinshorterdistancesthanothertypesofvehicles.

Whenpassedbyamotorcycle,amotoristshouldmaintainhis/herspeedandposition. Allow plenty of room for the motorcycle to complete the pass andresumeproperlaneposition.

Amotorist’s failure todetectandrecognizemotorcycles in traffic is themostcommoncauseofmotorcyclecollisions.

Formoreinformationonmotorcyclesafety,visitwww.njridesafe.org.

trucKs, trActor-trAiLers AnD busesAmotoristshouldalwaysusecautionwhendrivingalongsidetrucks.Sharingtheroadwithlargervehiclescanbesafeifamotoristknowsthelimitationsofthesevehiclesregardingvisibility,requiredstoppingdistanceandmaneuverability.Whenpassingalargetruckorbus,itisimportanttorememberthatthereareseveralno-zones(blindspots) inwhichthemotoristcannotseeothervehicles. Inaddition,duringbadweather,atruckcantakeasmuchas25percentlongertostop.

No Zone Principle

NO-ZONE10-20 FEET

NO-ZONE

NO-ZONE

NO-ZONE200 FEET

THE BLACK AREAS ARE “NO-ZONES.”IF YOU ARE IN ONE OF THESE AREAS,

THE DRIVER OF THE TRUCK CAN’T SEE YOU.

BVMN_nozone_110907

the no-zone principleAvoid the area around trucks where vehicles disappear into blind spots. Donotmovesoclosetoatruckthatthetruckdriver’sabilitytostopormaneuvereffectivelyisrestricted.Thepotentialforacollisionisincreasedwhenamotoristisridingintheno-zone.Ifthemotoristofalargetruckorbuscannotseeanothermotorist’svehicleintherearvieworside-viewmirrors,thevehicleisinano-zone,orblindspot.

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Semi-Truck Turn

USE CAUTION WHEN PASSING TRUCKS.THEY MAKE WIDE TURNS.

BVMN_truckturn_110907

rear no-zone• Stayfarbehindatruckthatispreparingtobackuporisbackingup.Never

passclosebehindatruckthatispreparingtobackuporisintheprocessofbackingup.Becauseoftheirwidth,thetrailerscompletelyhideobjectsthat suddenly come between them and a loading area. The area behindthetruckisano-zone(blindspot),notonlyforthetruckdriverbutforothermotoristsaswell.

• Amotoristshould increase followingdistancebehinda truckorother largevehiclesoitsdrivercanspotamotorist’svehicleintherearviewmirrors.Nevertailgateorremainsandwichedbetweentrucks.Amotoristshouldmaintainasizablespacecushionbetweenhis/hervehicleandlargervehicles.

• Leave space when stopping at a light or sign behind a truck or bus,especiallywhenfacinguphill.The largervehiclemayrollbackwardslightlywhenstarting.

• Givemoreroadspacetoatruckdriverwhoismakingawideturn.Becausetrucksarelargerthanothervehicles,theirdriversmayhavetoslow,backuporswingwidetonegotiateaturn.Theycannotseesmallervehiclesdirectlybehindorbesidethem.Forexample,atruckdrivermayhavetoswingwidetothelefttomakearightturn.

front no-zone• Maintainaconsistent speedwhenpassing.Donotpull in frontofa truck

whenpassinguntilthewholefrontofthetruckcanbeseenintherearviewmirror.Alwayssignalbeforechanginglanes.Neverpassatruckontheright.

Side no-zone• Driveawayfromthelongblindspotsonthesidesoftrucks.Ifthemotorist

mustquicklychangelanesormakeanemergencymaneuver,avehicleinthisareawillbeintheway.Donotlingeralongsideatruckwhenpassing.

head-on no-zone• Amotoristshouldbearrightwhenalargevehicleistravelingtowardhis/her

vehiclefromtheoppositedirection.Thisreduceswindturbulencebetweenthemotoristandthelargervehicle,andpossiblypreventsasideswipe.

yieLDinG to schooL AnD commerciAL busesStatelawrequiresallnon-emergencyvehiclestoyieldtheright-of-waytobusesre-entering trafficafterdroppingofforpickingupbuspassengers.However,oncethebusisbackinthenormalflowoftraffic,motoristsarenotrequiredtoyieldtheright-of-waytobuseschanging lanes.Busoperatorsarerequiredtodriveinasafeandresponsiblemanner.Theyieldlawwasenactedtoimprovesafetyonthestate’sroadways.Violationsofthislawcarryafineofnotlessthan$50ormorethan$200,upto15daysinjailorbothafineandajailterm(N.J.S.A.39:4-87.1).

moPeDsMotorized bicycles, or mopeds, are low-speed, two-wheeled vehicles withpedals, intended for limited use on public roadways. Moped drivers may notexceed25mph,mustfollowalltrafficsignsandsignalsanddriveontherightsideoftheroadwiththeflowoftraffic.

Amotoristshouldalwaysbealertformopeds,whicharesmallerthanmotorcyclesandhardertosee.Mopeddrivershavethesamerightsandresponsibilitiesasthosedrivingothermotorvehicles.Acopyof theNewJerseyMopedManualmaybeviewedonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.

bicycLes, sKAteboArDs AnD inLine sKAtesA motorist should always leave plenty of room when following or passing abicyclist, skateboarderor inlineskater.UnderNewJersey law,eachof theseindividualshasthesamerightsandresponsibilitiesasamovingmotorvehicle.

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While bicycles ridden after dark must have front and rear lights and a rearreflector,theseilluminationdevicesmaybehardforamotoristtosee.Amotoristshouldalwaysremainalerttothepresenceofsmallervehicles.

When turning right,motoristsshouldbeawareofbicyclists, skateboardersorinline skaters. Before turning, the motorist should wait until the intersectionclears. Under New Jersey law, motorists signaling a right turn must yield tobicyclists,skateboardersorinlineskatersmovingthroughanintersection.

Toturnleft,abicyclist,skateboarderorinlineskatermaychoosetousetrafficlanes to turnasa vehiclewould.Amotorist shouldbeaware that abicyclist,skateboarderorinlineskatermayrideontherightedgeoftheturnlane.

motorizeD scooters (N.J.S.A.39:4-14.12through39:4-14.15;N.J.S.A.39:1-1)Amotorizedscooterisaminiaturemotorvehicle.Althoughitisillegalforthesevehicles to be driven on any public road or sidewalk, except on designatedmunicipal or county property, motorists must be very alert if these types ofvehiclesarepresent.Motorizedscootersareextremelyhardtosee.

Motorized scooters must be registered in the municipality or county wherethe owner resides and must be insured. No one under the age of 12 (theage determined by a municipality or county) is permitted to operate amotorizedscooter.

examples of a motorized scooter include but are not limited to: • Pocketbikes

• Superpocketbikes

• Scooters

• Mini-scooters

• Sportscooters

• Mini-choppers

• Mini-motorcycles

• Motorizedskateboards

• OthervehicleswithmotorsnotmanufacturedincompliancewithFederal MotorVehicleSafetyStandardsandwhichhavenopermanentFederalSafety Certificationstickersaffixedtothevehiclebytheoriginalmanufacturer

the following are not motorized scooters: • Electricpersonalmobility-assistingdevices

• Motorizedbicyclesorlow-speedvehicles

• Motorizedwheelchairs• Mobility scooters or similar mobility-assisting devices used by persons with physicaldisabilitiesorpersonswhoseambulatorymobilityhasbeenimpairedby ageorillness

inDiviDuALs with A mobiLity-reLAteD DisAbiLity State law allows individuals with a mobility-assisted disability to operate certainmotorizedscootersonpublicstreets,withapostedspeedlimitinexcessof25mphbutnotmorethan35mph,iflocalgovernmentdeterminesthatthescooterdoesnotposeadangertosafetyandtheflowoftraffic.Themotorizedscootermayonlyhaveamaximumspeedcapabilityofnomorethan15mph(N.J.S.A.39:4-14.12through39:4-14.15).Thefollowingarenotpermittedformobility-relateddisabilities:

• Pocketbikes

• Superpocketbikes

• Scooters

• Mini-scooters

• Sportscooters

• Mini-choppers

• Mini-motorcycles

• Motorizedskateboards

The motorized scooter must be registered with the municipality in which theoperatorresidesandmustbeinsured.Afterregisteringthemotorizedscooterwiththemunicipality,theownermayapplyforaplacardorstickerfromtheMVC.

Low-sPeeD vehicLes(N.J.S.A.39:4-31.1through39:4-31.5)Alow-speedvehicle(LSV)isafour-wheeledvehiclewithanattainablespeedofmorethan20mph,butnomorethan25mphonapavedsurface.Itcannotbepoweredbygasordieselfuelandmustcomplywithfederalsafetystandards.Motoristsshouldbealertwhenthesetypesofvehiclesarepresent,astheymaybedifficulttosee.

Thefollowingguidelinesmustbeobservedwhendrivingalow-speedvehicle:• LSVsmaynotbedrivenonroadwayswithspeedlimitsthatexceed25mph.

(Inlimitedcases,ifdeemedappropriatebyamunicipality,countyortheStateDOT,LSVsmaybepermittedonroadwayswithspeedlimitsthatdonotexceed35mph).

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• Watchforandabidebyroadsignsprohibitinguse,evenonlowerspeedroads.

• LSVsmaynotbeusedasmodifiedgolfcarts.

• LSVsmusthavea17-digitVehicleIdentificationNumber.

• AmotoristmusthaveavalidClassDlicensetooperateanLSV.

• TheLSVmustbeproperlyregisteredandinsured.

• ChildrestraintsinLSVsmustmeetthesamestandardsasthoseusedinpassengervehicles.

• AmotoristmayleaseorrentLSVsthatareproperlytitled,registeredandinsuredfortemporaryuse.

• AnLSVmayberegisteredinthenameofanindividual,businessorgovernmententitybutmaynotbeusedasacommercialvehicle.

• LSVdriversaresubjecttothesameviolationsasothervehicles(exceptfortheregularinspectionrequirements).

• AllLSVsshallhaveasafetyinformationdecalprovidedbythemanufacturerontherearofthevehicle.

• IftheLSVhasonlyonelicenseplate,itshouldbeplacedontherearofthevehicle.

• LSVsmustmeetfederalandstaterequirements.

federal requirements (49CFR571.500)Lowspeedvehiclescannotexceed25mphandmustbeequippedwith:

• Headlamps

• Frontandrearturnsignallamps

• Taillamps

• Stoplamps

• Redreflexreflectors:oneoneachsideasfartotherearaspossibleandoneontherearofthevehicle

• Exteriormirrormounted:onthemotorist’ssideofthevehicleandeitheranexteriormountedonthepassenger’ssideoraninteriorrearviewmirror

• Parkingbrake

• Windshieldthatmeetsfederalsafetyrequirements

• VehicleIdentificationNumber

• Seatbelts

State requirements(N.J.S.A.39:4-31.2)LSVsoperatedonanypublicroadorhighwayinthestateshallbemaintainedinproperconditionandcomplywithequipmentrequirementsandstandards:

• Adequatebrakestocontrolthemovementofthevehicle

• Odometer

• Speedometer

• Originalmanufacturer’sVINdie-stampedonthebodyand/orframe,engineormotorofthevehicle

• Safetyinformationdecalprovidedbythemanufacturermustbeinaconspicuousplaceontherearofthevehicledisplaying“25MPHVehicle”

snowmobiLes AnD ALL-terrAin vehicLes(ATVs)(N.J.S.A.39:3C-1through39:3C-31)MotoristsmustbeawareofthepresenceoflegallyregisteredsnowmobilesandATVsthatmayattempttocrosscertainroadways.Whileitisillegalforthesetypesofvehicles to rideonpublic roadwayswithothervehicles, theyarepermittedtocrosscertainroadwayswhensafetypermits.OperatorsofsnowmobilesandATVsmustmaintainaproofofinsuranceanddisplaythevehicle’sregistrationatalltimes.CopiesoftheNewJerseySnowmobileorATVbrochuresmaybeobtainedonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.

AnimALsAnimalsoftendartontoroadsorstreets.Tryingtoavoidthemoftencausescollisions.Byswerving,thevehiclemayhitsomethingelseorbehitbyanothervehiclefrombehind.Thebestdefenseagainstsuchaccidentsistowatchforanimalsonbothsidesoftheroadaheadandbepreparedforunexpectedmovement.

horsebAcK riDers Horse-drawn vehicles and horseback riders have the same rights andresponsibilitiesasdomotorvehicleswhenusingpublicroadways(N.J.S.A.39:4-25.1).Motoristsshouldapproachorpassahorseorhorse-drawnvehiclewithcareatamaximumspeedof25mphandobservetherequest,eitherbyhandsignalorotherwise,ofapersonridingahorseordrivingahorse-drawnvehicleintheoppositedirectionforthemotoristtostophis/hermotorvehicleandremainstationaryforaslongasittakesthehorsetopass(N.J.S.A.39:4-72).

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Horse-drawnvehiclesandhorsebackridersmaynotusecertainlimited-accesshighwaysandmustridewithtraffic,keepingasfartotherightaspossible.Otherrulesapply.Speedingandilluminationrulesapply.Alightmustbedisplayedonthebackofthehorse-drawnvehicle:

• 30minutesaftersunsetuntil30minutesbeforesunrise

• Ifvisibilityis500feetorless

• Whenencounteringfog,mist,smokeorotherfactorsthatreducevisibility(N.J.S.A.39:4-25)

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Inadditiontosafelynavigatingtheroadways,amotoristmustalsounderstandtherequirementsforvehiclesthathe/shedrives.

VEHIClE TITlE anD REGISTRaTIOnNewJerseyresidentswhobuyaneworusedvehiclemusttitle, register,andinsure itbeforedriving itonpublicroads(N.J.S.A.39:3-4,39:10-11,39:6B-1,39:6B-2).NewJerseylawstatesavehicleclassifiedundertheLemonLawmusthavethatclassificationonthetitle(N.J.S.A.39:10-9.3).ForinformationabouttheLemonLaw,contacttheLemonLawUnitoftheDivisionofConsumerAffairsat(973) 504-6200.Ifamotoristmovesintothisstate,thelawrequireshis/hervehicle to be titled and registered within 60 days; sooner, if the out-of-stateregistrationexpiresbeforethen(N.J.S.A.39:3-17.1).Thetitledowner(personwhosenameappearsonthetitleastheowner)orapersonwithauthoritytoactonthevehicleowner’sbehalf1isrequiredtovisitanMVCagencytoprocessthetransaction.Aninitialregistrationforabrand-newvehiclewillbevalidforfouryears.Allotherregistrationsaretypicallyvalidforoneyear2(N.J.S.A.39:3-4).

1Visitwww.njmvc.govforspecificinformationonwhoisauthorizedtoactontheowner’sbehalf.2Visitwww.njmvc.govforexceptions.

how to titLe A new vehicLe• Obtainthetitlethroughthedealershipwherethevehiclewaspurchased.

• Obtain the manufacturer’s certificate of origin assigned to the owner,ensuringthatthedocumenthasthesalestaxsatisfiedstampontheback(ifpurchasedfromadealerauthorizedtocollectNewJerseysalestax).

The documents can be taken to any MVC agency. The owner must pay therequiredtitlingfee. IfthedealerisnotauthorizedtocollectNewJerseysalestax,thebuyermustpaysalestaxwhentitlingthevehicle.

how to titLe A useD vehicLe• Completethereversesideofthetitlewiththebuyer’sname,address,date

ofsale,mileageodometerreading,saleprice,buyer’ssignatureandseller’sinformationandsignature.

• Presentthesignedtitleandpaytherequiredtitlingfee.

• Thebuyermustpaysalestaxonthepurchasepricewhentitlingthevehicle.

Note:Toavoida$25penaltywhenbuyingausedcar,thetitlemustbepresentedtoanMVCagencyfortransferwithin10businessdaysofthesale(N.J.S.A.39:10-11.1).

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how to rePLAce A titLeif the title is lost or stolen,aduplicatetitlecanbeissuedatanyMVCagencyorbymailfora$60fee(N.J.S.A.39:10-12).

Thetitledowner(personwhosenameappearsonthefrontofthetitle)willneed:• AcompletedApplicationforDuplicateCertificateofOwnership(OS/SS-52)1

• Acurrentregistrationcertificateorinsuranceidentificationcardforthevehicle

• Alienreleasefromthelienholderifthevehiclewasfinanced

if the title is damaged, defaced or illegible,areplacementtitlecanbeissuedatanyMVCagencyorbymailfora$60fee(N.J.S.A.39:10-16).

Thetitledowner(personwhosenameappearsonthefrontofthetitle)willneed:• Thedamagedtitle• AcompletedApplicationforDuplicateCertificateofOwnership(OS/SS-52)1

1OS/SS-52 can be obtained at any MVC agency, online at www.njmvc.gov or by calling (888) 486-3339 (toll-free in New Jersey) or (609) 292-6500 (outofstate).

Ifsomeoneotherthanthetitledownerisapplyingforareplacementorduplicatetitle,pleasecontacttheMVConlineatwww.njmvc.govorcall(888) 486-3339(toll-freeinNewJersey)or(609) 292-6500(outofstate)foradditionalrequirements.

how to comPLete An initiAL reGistrAtion• CompleteaNewJerseyVehicleRegistrationapplication(BA-49)atanyMVC

agency.Providethenameofthevehicle’scurrentinsurancecompanynameandthepolicynumberontheapplication.

• Show proof of vehicle ownership. For a new vehicle, a manufacturer’scertificateoforiginandadealer’scertificateofsaleareproof.Forapreviouslyowned vehicle, a title signed by the previous owner is proof. For a leasedvehicle,getapowerofattorneyfromtheleasingcompany.Forout-of-statevehicles that are leased or financed, secure the original title from the lienholderorleasingcompany.Visitwww.njmvc.govorcall(888) 486-3339(toll-freeinNewJersey)or(609) 292-6500(outofstate)formoreinformation.

• Showproofthattherequiredsalestaxhasbeenpaid,orpaythetaxattheagency.

Note: InNewJersey,amotoristmustbeat least17yearsold to registeravehicle(N.J.S.A.39:10-11.1).

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reGistrAtion renewALTheMVCmailsrenewalnoticesatleast60daysbeforetheannualregistrationexpires.Ifarenewalformisnotreceivedbymail,therenewalmaybecompletedinpersonatanyMVCagency,orcontacttheMVCtohaveanapplicationmailed.It is the motorist’s responsibility to keep his/her vehicle registration current.Thereisafinefordrivingwithoutacurrentregistrationdocument.

RegistrationrenewalsmaybeconductedquicklyandeasilybyphoneorontheWeb,24hoursaday.Conveniencefeewillapply.Apersonaladdresschangecanbemadeonlinewhilerenewing.

• Calltoll-free(877) 368-6548.

• Goonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.

Forboth,apreprintedregistrationrenewalwithPIN,validinsuranceIDcardandcreditcardarenecessary.ThePINisasecurityfeature.Ifthepre-printedformislost,amotoristwillnotbeabletorenewonlineorbyphone.

If renewing by mail, fill out the renewal form and mail to the MVC with acheck or money order. Please allow enough time for processing before theregistrationexpires.

Note: The MVC no longer issues license plate registration decals to passengervehiclesornon-commerciallight-truckowners.

titLe AnD reGistrAtion correctionsTitleandregistrationcorrectionsmaybemadeatanyMVCagencyorRegionalServiceCenter.Pleasecall(888)486-3339(toll-freeinNewJersey)or(609)292-6500(outofstate)forspecificinstructions.

lICEnSE PlaTES (N.J.S.A.39:3-33)Motoristswill receive twomatching licenseplatesuponregisteringavehicle.Oneplateisprovidedwhenregisteringatrailer,mopedormotorcycle. For passenger vehicles, oneplateshouldbeattachedtothefrontofthevehicleandtheothertotherearatleast12inches but less than 48 inches above theground.Bothplatesmustbecleanandvisible.Therearplatemustbelightedsoitisvisiblefrom50feetatnight,evenwithreflectorizedplates(N.J.S.A.39:3-48b).Usinglicenseplatecoversorholdersthatobscureorconcealanyletteringonthelicenseplateisaviolation,withafineofupto$100.

License PLAte fActs• Reportlostorstolenplatestolocalpolice.Retainacopyofthecomplaint.

• Replacelostordamagedplateswithin24hoursatanyMVCagency,andturnintheoldplatesatanyMVCagencyormailthemtotheMVC,P.O.Box403,Trenton,NJ08666-0403.

• Transfer theplates toyournewvehicle.Mostplatesare transferable.Visitwww.njmvc.govorcall(888) 486-3339(toll-freeinNewJersey)or(609) 292-6500 (outofstate)fordetails.

• Ifamotoristsellshis/hervehicleanddoesnottransfertheplatestoanothervehicle, he/she should turn in the old plates at any MVC agency or mailthemtotheMVC,P.O.Box403,Trenton,NJ08666-0403.Areceiptwillbeprovided.Itshouldbekeptinasafeplace.

• Obtain information about personalized or specialty plates from any MVC

agencyatwww.njmvc.govorcall(888) 486-3339(toll-freeinNewJersey)or(609) 292-6500 (outofstate).

• Amotoristmayplaceonlyvalidplatesonhis/hervehicle.Forgedorcounterfeitlicenseplatesonanymotorvehiclemayresultinafineofupto$500,upto60daysimprisonmentoralicensesuspensionofuptosixmonths,orboth(N.J.S.A.39:3-33,39:3-38).

• Ifamotoristterminatesvehicleinsurance,theplatesmustbereturnedtotheMVC(N.J.A.C.13:21-5.10b).

hAnDicAPPeD PLAtes/PLAcArDs/cArDs(N.J.S.A.39:4-206and39:4-205)Handicappedlicenseplatesandarearviewmirrorplacardareavailabletodisabledpersonsatnochargetoallowthemtoparkinspecificallydesignedspaces.

• Amotoristmayobtainanapplicationonlineatwww.njmvc.govorrequestonebycalling(888) 486-3339(toll-freeinNJ)or(609) 292-6500(outofstate).ApplicationsmayalsobeobtainedatanyMVCagency.Alongwiththeapplicationamotoristwillreceiveinstructions,FAQsandachecklisttoassistincompletingtheapplication.

• QualifiedindividualswillcompletePart1oftheapplication;theirphysicianswill complete Part 2, which establishes and certifies eligibility under theprovisionsofthelaw.Acopyoftheregistrationmustbeincludedforplaterequests.ThecompletedapplicationcanbebroughttoanyMVCagencyormailedtotheMVCforprocessing.

• Qualifiedindividualsmayreceiveonesetofplatesandoneplacard(N.J.A.C.13:20-9.4).

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Toobtainatemporaryplacard:• Amotoristmustgotothechiefofpoliceinthemunicipalitywherehe/she

residestogetanapplication.• Themotoristmusthavehis/herdoctorcertifytheneedfortheplacard.• Themotoristmustreturnthecompletedapplicationtothepolice

departmentwitha$4fee,payabletoMotorVehicleCommission.• Uponpayment,thepolicedepartmentwillissueatemporaryplacard.• Temporaryplacardsaregoodforsix(6)monthsandmayberenewed,if

needed,foranadditionalsix(6)months.

Whenthevehicleisparked,thehandicappedplacardmustbedisplayedonthevehicle’srearviewmirror.Itmustberemovedpriortodriving.

LicenseplatesandplacardsforeligiblepersonsareissuedwithanIdentificationCard and are to be used exclusively for and by the person named on theIdentificationCard. Thecard is non-transferable andwill be forfeited if usedbyanotherperson.Abuseof thisprivilege iscauseforrevocationofboththelicenseplates/placardandcard(N.J.S.A.39:4-205).

Upon the death of the eligible person, the handicapped plates/placard andIdentificationCardmustbereturnedtotheMVC.TheymaybesurrenderedatanyMVCAgencyormailedtotheMVCOfficeofCustomerAdvocacy,P.O.Box403,Trenton,NJ08666-0403,withaletterofexplanation.

Plates must be renewed every year, and placards must be renewed everythreeyears.Uponreceiptofanapplicationforrenewal, theMVCmayrequirethe applicant to submit a statement from a physician recertifying his/herqualificationasprovidedunderN.J.A.C.13:20-9.1a4.Fraudorabuseofhandicappedplatesandplacardswillnotbetolerated. It isimportantthatapplicantsandcertifyingphysiciansknowthatunderNewJerseylaw, making a false statement or providing misinformation on an applicationto obtain or facilitate the receipt of license plates or placards for personswith disabilities is a fourth-degree crime. A person who has been convictedofanoffensemaybesubjecttoafine,nottoexceed$10,000,andtoatermof imprisonment, which shall not exceed 18 months (N.J.S.A. 2C:21-4a).Informationregardinghandicappedparkingmaybefoundonlineatwww.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/Vehicles/hC_parking.pdf.

VEHIClE InSPECTIOnAll gasoline-fueled vehicles, except new vehicles, registered in New Jerseymustpassstatesafetyandemissions inspectionsevery twoyearsatastateinspectionfacilityorastate-licensedprivateinspectionfacility(N.J.S.A.39:8-2c,N.J.A.C.13:20-7.2).

Newgasoline-fueledvehiclesmustpasstheirfirstMVCinspectionfouryearsafter7.4b). theyare initially registered (N.J.S.A.39:8-2candN.J.A.C.13:20-28.6, 13:20. The MVC inspects diesel-fueled passenger vehicles and trucksregistered under 10,000 pounds for safety only, but the MVC may requirethese vehicles to undergo occasional roadside spot inspections. High-riseand reconstructed vehicles must be taken to specially equipped inspectionstationsinWinslow,AsburyParkandMorristown.Call(888)656-6867formoreinformation.

To be eligible for inspection, all motorists must bring a valid driver licenseand valid New Jersey registration and insurance documents for the vehicletobeinspectedateitherastateinspectionstationorastate-licensedprivateinspectionfacility(PIF).Withouttheproperdocumentation,thevehiclewillnotpass inspection.Whenmoving toNewJersey fromanother state, amotoristmusthavehis/hervehicleinspectedwithin14daysafterregistering it (N.J.A.C. 13:20-7.4). For motor vehicleinspection information, please call 1-888-nJmotor (1-888-656-6867) orvisitwww.njinspections.com.

the insPection ProcessUponinspection, theNewJerseyemissions inspectorwilldeterminethevehicle’senginetypeandprepareitfortesting.Tocomplywithstateandfederalsafetystandards, theMVCteststhevehicle’sbrakesuspension,steering,wheelalignmentandsafetyfeatures(headlights,taillights,tires,horn,windshieldwipersandturnsignals).

TocomplywithfederalCleanAirActstandards,theMVCinspectsavehicle’semissions system based on the year, make and model of the vehicle. NewJersey uses an on-board diagnostics, or OBD, test. OBD allows technicianstodownloademissionsinformationfromanon-boardcomputerfoundinmostvehiclesmanufactured in1996or later.TheMVCanalyzesemissionsdata inthis way to determine if the vehicle passes inspection. Any vehicle with a lit“checkengine”lightwillautomaticallyfailtheOBDtest.

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The final stage of the test will assure that the vehicle’s gas cap is sealingcorrectlysothatitlimitstheescapeoffumesintotheenvironment

Afterthevehiclepassesinspection,theinspectorwillplaceanewcertificateofapproval(inspectionsticker)inthelowerdriversidecornerofthewindshieldthatshowstheexpirationdate.NootherstickercanappearontheleftcornerofthewindshieldunlessapprovedbytheMVCChiefAdministrator.

To properly maintain a vehicle, a motorist should always check its conditionbetweeninspectionsandbeforelongtrips.

Drivingavehiclewithanexpiredinspectionstickermayresultinfinesbetween$100and$200and/orimprisonmentforupto30days.Additionally,theMVCmayrevokeregistrationprivileges(N.J.S.A.39:8-9).

insPection test resuLtsWhenavehiclepassesinspection,itwillreceiveacertificateofapproval.Ifthevehiclefailsinspection1,theownerwillhaveuptoonemonthfromthelastdayofthemonthindicatedontheinspectionstickertomakethenecessaryrepairsandreturnforre-inspectionatastateinspectionfacilityorstate-licensedprivateinspection facility (N.J.A.C.13:20-7.5).Vehiclesoverdue for inspectiondonotreceiveadditionaltimetomakenecessaryrepairs(N.J.A.C.13:20-43.12).Avehi-clemaybecitedbylawenforcementatanytimeforequipmentoutofcompliance.

Allemissionrepairsmustbecompletedbyaregisteredemissionsrepairfacilityor the registered owner of the vehicle. If a private state-licensed garage islicensedtoonlydoinspections,thefacilitycannotmakeemissionsrepairs.

1SeeInspectionAdvisories

insPection of useD cArs PerN.J.A.C.13:20-7.4,whenausedvehicleispurchasedandhasavalidNewJerseyinspectioncertificateofapprovalproperlyaffixedtothewindshield,thenewownerhastwooptions:

• Usethetimeleftonthepreviousowner’sinspectionsticker.• Takethevehicleforinspectiontoastate-licensed,privateinspectionfacility(PIF)foraninspectionwithin14daysafterregistration.

Ifthevehicleisfromanotherstate,ordoesnothaveavalidNewJerseyinspectioncertificationofapproval,thevehiclemustbeinspectedwithin14daysafterregistration.

Since September 1, 2007, customers wishing to obtain off-cycle vehicleinspectionsmustvisitaprivateinspectionfacility(PIF),whichwillchargeafee.Onlythosevehiclesthatarewithintwomonthsoftheexpirationdateindicatedontheinspectionstickerwillbeinspectedatacentralizedinspectionfacility(CIF).

off-cycLe insPections (courtesy insPections)Customers wishing to obtain an off-cycle vehicle inspection must visit a PrivateInspectionFacility(PIF),whichwillchargeafee.Onlythosevehiclesthatarewithintwomonthsoftheexpirationdateindicatedonthecertificateofapproval(inspectionsticker)willbeinspectedatastateinspectionfacility.

insPection ADvisoriesTheMVCuses InspectionAdvisories to informmotoristsofcertainminorvehicledefectsfoundduringaninspection.Thevehicleisnotgivenarejectionstickerfortheseitems;rather,themotoristisissuedanInspectionAdvisory,notingtheitemsthatrequirerepair.Amotoristthenhas60daysfromthedateoftheinspectiontomakethoserepairs.Ifrepairsarenotmade,themotoristmaybecitedforfailuretomakerepairsandbesubjecttopenalties.Atanytime,though,avehiclemaybecitedforequipmentoutofcompliance.

Motoristsdonothavetore-inspecttheirvehiclesforadvisoryitems.Thefollowingitems will not be cause for rejection but will cause the motorist to receive anInspectionAdvisory:

• Missing or defaced license plates (at least one undamaged license platemustbepresented)

• Current registration containing typographical errors in the vehicle identificationnumber (provided the make, model year and license plate number on theregistrationisaccurate)

• Missingorburned-outlicenseplatelights• High-mountedrearstoplightthatismissing,obstructed,inoperativeordoesnot

operateproperly(twostoplightsmustbeoperable)• Headlights that are cracked, chipped or contain moisture or that are

equippedwithbrushguardsorgrillsovertheheadlights(aslongastheyareoperationalandvisible)

• Broken,crackedormissinglensonturn-signallight(providedthatnowhitelightisshowingtotherearofthevehicle)

• Improperspecialtylights(regardlessofnumber,locationandcondition)includingfog,passing,supplementaldriving,spotlight,cowl,fenderoranyotherauxiliarylights

• Excessiverustorsharpedgesonthevehiclebodyorbumper• Crackedorbrokenmirrors(aslongasthemotoristhasadequaterearviewvision)• Motorcyclehelmetsthatdonothavereflectivetapeorhelmetsthatarenotreflective

insPection exemPtionsInspectionsarenot requiredforcertainvehicles,suchashistoricandcollectorvehicles(N.J.S.A.39:8-1).

• Historicvehiclesatleast25yearsold,usedonlyforexhibition/educational

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purposesormanufacturedbefore1945,requireaspecialregistrationandaQQplatedisplayedontherearofthevehicle(N.J.S.A.39:3-27.3,N.J.A.C.13:20-34.2).

• Collectorvehiclesdisplaytwostandardlicenseplatesandhaveatriangulardecalonthefrontleftwindshieldthatisvalidfortwoyears.Theownermustprovideproofofmilesdrivenannually(3,000milesorfewer)andspecialinsurance(limited-usecollectorvehicle)andrenewthisstatuseverytwoyearsoriftheownerchanges(N.J.A.C.13:20-43.1,N.J.A.C.13:20-43.2).

Auto rePAir fAciLitiesWhenavehicle isdamaged inanaccidentandneedsrepair,amotoristshouldonly consider repair facilities that are properly licensed to remove, rebuild orinstall integralcomponentpartsofanengine,powertrain,chassisorbodyofavehicledamagedinacollision.Beforechoosinganautobodyshop:

• Checkoutseveralshops.• Visitwww.njmvc.govforalistoflicensedautobodyrepairshopsorcall(888)

486-3339toll-freeinNewJerseyor(609) 292-6500fromoutofstate• Checkfortheequipmentthattheshopneedstoproperlyrepairyourvehicle

(framemachine,migwelder,paintroom).• AskiftheshopisamemberofthelocalChamberofCommerceoracollision

repairassociation(Amotoristmaywanttocalloneofthesegroupstoverifytheshop’sreputation).

• Askaboutassistancewith insuranceclaims. It is illegal forashoptosaveamotorist the cost of the insurance deductible. Insurance fraud violators aresubjecttoapenaltyofnotmorethan$5,000forafirstoffense,$10,000forasecondoffenseand$15,000forathirdoffense(N.J.S.A.17:33A-5).

• Requestanestimateinwritingbeforeauthorizingrepairs.Also,obtainawrittenwarranty on the work that will be done. The estimate should contain theagreed-uponpaymenttermsandtherepaircompletiondateandifauthorizedequipmentwillbeused.

insurAnceMotorvehicleliabilityinsuranceismandatoryintheStateofNewJersey.EveryvehicleregisteredinNewJerseymusthaveliabilityinsurance(N.J.S.A.39:6B-1,39:6B-2).

The type and cost of insurance coverage can vary. Check the Department ofBankingandInsurance(DOBI)Websiteatwww.njdobi.orgtoreviewthemanyinsurancecoveragechoices,orcontactaninsurancecompany.

A New Jersey Insurance Identification Card will be provided for each vehicleinsuredunderapolicy.Thiscardmustremaininthevehiclewiththedriver.Itmustbeshownpriortoinspection,wheninvolvedinanaccidentandwhenstoppedby

lawenforcementforatrafficviolationorroadsidespotcheck.

Drivingwithanuninsuredvehiclecanresultinfines,communityservice,licenseandregistrationsuspensionandinsurancesurcharges.

insurAnce frAuDThe Office of Insurance Fraud Prosecutor (OIFP) in the Division of CriminalJustice aggressively investigates and prosecutes individuals who engagein insurance fraud. If a person commits insurance fraud by providing falseinformation to an insurance company while making a claim or submitting aninsurance application, the OIFP can file criminal charges that can result inincarceration. It may also impose civil fines up to $15,000 for each violation(N.J.S.A. 17:33A-5). In addition, a person convicted of insurance fraud couldlosehis/herdriverlicense.

BecausefraudincreasesthecostofinsuranceforallNewJerseyans,motoristscan help the OIFP by reporting fraud. Visit www.njinsurancefraud.org andclickonReportFraud,or call (877) 55-frAUd (877-553-7283). All tipsarekeptstrictlyanonymousandconfidential.


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essential DriverInformation

lICEnSE REnEwalAvalidlicensemustbecarriedatalltimeswhendriving(N.J.S.A.39:3-29).Itisimportanttoremembertorenewthelicensebeforeitexpires.Ifadriverlicenseisnotrenewedforthreeyears,orifthemotoristmaynotrenewduetoalicensesuspension,he/shemustreapplyandretakethevisionscreeningandwrittenand road tests (N.J.A.C.13:21-8.17). It is the responsibilityof themotorist torenewhis/herlicense.Renewalnoticesaresenttomotoristsupto90dayspriortotheexpirationdate.Ifarenewalformisnotreceivedbymail,aformmaybeobtainedatanyMVCagency.Whenrenewingalicense,amotoristmustbringhis/herexpiringlicense,acompletedrenewalformandthedocumentsrequiredby6PointsofIDVerification(N.J.A.C.13:21-8.2)toanyMVCagency.Whenabasic license is renewed,anyendorsements (motorcycle, commercial vehicle,boat)mustalsoberenewedinordertodriveoroperatetheendorsedvehicle.

If a motorist enters the military and has a valid New Jersey license, he/sheshouldrenewthelicensebeforeitexpires.Mostlicensesmaybereneweduptosixmonthsinadvanceofexpiration.

PERMIT, nOn-DRIVER ID anD lICEnSE uPDaTESInformation on a permit, driver license or non-driver ID must be accurate.ChangesandcorrectionsshouldbereportedtotheMVCimmediately.

ADDress chAnGesIfamotoristmoveswithinNewJerseyoroutofstate,he/shemustreporttheaddresschangewithinoneweek(N.J.S.A.39:3-36)byanyofthefollowing:

• VisitanMVCagencywith6PointsofIDVerification(N.J.A.C.13:21–8.2)andproofofaddresschange.(Anewdriverlicensewillbegeneratedforafeeof$11).

• SubmittherequestinwritingtotheMVCDatabaseUnit,P.O.Box141,Trenton,NJ08666-0141.(Includecopiesof6PointsofIDVerificationandproofofaddresschange).

• Submitthechangeonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.

• CallinNJ888-486-3339orout-of-state609-292-6500.

All motorists who make address changes via mail, telephone or Web sitewill receiveaddresschange verificationstickers in themail. Thesticker is tobeattached to thebackof thedriver licenseand to thebackof any vehicleregistrationsinthemotorist’sname.

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nAme chAnGesIfamotoristchangeshis/hernamelegally(throughadivorce,marriage,adoptionor by legal name change) or changes the name of his/her corporation, thenamechangemustbereported to theMVCwithin twoweeks(N.J.S.A.39:3-9a).PersonalnamechangesmayonlybemadeinpersonatanMVCagencyorRegionalServiceCenter.U.S.passportscannotbeusedasproofoflegalnamechange.Proofofaddressand6PointsofIDVerification(N.J.A.C.13:21-8.2)arerequired, includingacertifiedcopyofthedocumentforthenamechange. IfanewSocialSecuritycardwiththenewnamehasnotbeenreceived,themotoristshouldcontacttheSocialSecurityAdministrationat(800) 772-1213.

corPorAte nAme/ADDress chAnGes Corporate name changes or changes of address must be made by mail. Acompany officer must, within seven days, write and sign a letter on companyletterheadthatincludesthe:

• Corpcodenumber

• Formerandnewcompanyname

• NewcompanyaddressinNewJersey(P.O.boxandstreet)

• Phonenumber

• Previousaddress(ifapplicable)

• Proofofageandidentificationofcompanyofficer

• Name-changepapersfromtheTreasuryDepartment’sCommercialRecordingSection.

Thisinformationmaybesubmittedto:MVCDatabaseCorrectionUnitP.O.Box141Trenton,NJ08666-0141

lOST OR STOlEn PERMITS, nOn-DRIVER IDSanD lICEnSESNewJerseylawrequiresthatamotoristcarryavalidatedpermitwhenhe/shepracticesdrivingandavalidlicensewhendriving(N.J.S.A.39:3-29).Intheeventthatthepermitislostorstolen,anyMVCagencywillissueaduplicatepermitforanyclassvehiclefor$5.Amotoristmustprovideproofthathe/sheis17yearsorolderandhaveproofofidentity,asdescribedintheprecedingpages.Alicenseddrivinginstructormustapplyfortheduplicateifthemotoristisunder17yearsold.

Alostorstolendriverlicenseornon-driveridentificationcardshouldbereportedto thepolice.Theapplicantmustappear inpersonatanyagencytoobtainaduplicatelicenseoridentificationcard.Toensurethatsomeonedoesnotsecureadocumentinanotherindividual’sname,theapplicantmustshow6PointsofIDVerification.Thereplacementfeeforalostorstolenlicenseoridentificationcardis$11.

PERMIT, nOn-DRIVER ID anD lICEnSE CORRECTIOnSIfamotorist requiresachangetohis/hernameoraddressorotherpersonaldata, theMVCwill correct thepermit, non-driver IDor driver license.Followthechartonthispage.Proofsmustbeoriginaldocumentsorcertifiedcopieswiththerequiredstateormunicipalraisedseal.Ceremonialdocuments,suchasbaptismcertificatesorreligiousmarriagecertificates,arenotvalidproof.

Replacementfeesare$11forduplicates,replacements,permitsandnon-driverIDs.Handicappednon-driverIDsare$7foraduplicateand$9forachange.

item reASon proof

Name Marriage/CivilUnion Birthcertificateorcertifiedcopy,plusmarriageorcivilunioncertificate

Divorce Birthcertificateorcertifiedcopy,marriageorcivilunioncertificate,divorcedecreenotingnamechange

Dateofbirth Adoption Birthcertificateorcertifiedcopy,courtadoptionpapers

Legalchange Birthcertificateorcertifiedcopy,certifiedcourtorder

Correction Birthcertificateorcertifiedcopy,DepartmentofStatebirthcertificate,U.S.passport,alienregistrationcard,U.S.citizenshippapers,activemilitaryIDcard,U.S.adoptionpapers,militarydischargepapers(DD214),U.S.naturalizationcertificate

Address Moved Bankstatement,utilitybill,officialgovernmentmail

SocialSecurity Correction SocialSecuritycard

Weight,height Correctionorchange Nonerequired

Sex Medicalsexchange Amendedcertifiedbirthcertificate

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aMERICanS wITH DISabIlITIES aCTTheMVCcomplieswiththeAmericanswithDisabilitiesAct(ADA),thelawthatstates government agencies cannot deny programs and activities to anyonebecauseofdisabilities.Everyonewhousesgovernmentservicesshouldhavetherighttoindependentaccesstoinformation.Oneexampleisthatdisabledpeoplecanaccessinformationaboutpermits,licenses,vehicleinspectionandregistration,drivinglawsandregulations.SomeprogramstheMVCprovidesare:

• Teletypedigitaldisplay(TDD)machinephoneaccesstogeneralinformation

• Two24-hourgeneralinformationlines

• MVCWebsite

• PhysicalaccesstoMVCfacilitiesandparking

• ClearandconcisepublicationsinEnglish(someinSpanish)

• Oral,writtenandautomateddrivertesting

• Availabilityofplacardsandlicenseplatesfordisabledpersons; non-driveridentificationcards

ORGan DOnaTIOn Possessingadriverlicensecansavelivesthroughorganandtissuedonation.Oneorganandtissuedonorcansaveorenhancemorethan50lives.TheStateofNewJerseyandtheU.S.governmentpassedtheUniformAnatomicalGiftAct,whichallowsanindividualtodonatehis/herorgansupondeath.

An individual’sdecision tobeanorgandonor canmakeadifference in livesthroughoutNewJerseyandacross thenation.Rightnow, tensof thousandsofpeopleareawaitingorgantransplants,whilethousandsmoreareinneedoftissueandcornealtransplants.Theshortageofdonorsissoseverethateveryday,18peoplediewaitingfororgansthatcouldsavetheirlives.Youcangivethegiftoflifesimplybyagreeingtobecomeadonor.

Saying“yes”toorganandtissuedonationisanimportantdecisionforeveryone,includingthemorethan4,200NewJerseyanswhoarewaitingfororgans.Learnmoreaboutbeinganorgandonor.Gettheanswersandhavethepowertogiveothersthemostpreciousgift:life.

Mostpeopledonotrealizethatallmajorreligionssupportorgandonationandconsideritthegreatestgiftapersoncangive.Anyonecandecidetobeadonor,even incasesofhepatitisanddiabetes.Therearenocosts to the family fordonation,anditwillnotaffectfuneralarrangements.Age,gender,race,ethnicityorwealthdonotaffectwhoreceivesavailableorgans.

Whenapplyingforadriverlicenseforthefirsttimeandeachtimeitisrenewed,MVCstaffwillaskiftheapplicantwouldliketheOrganDonordesignationtoappearonhis/herlicense. Iftheindividual is18yearsorolderandagreesbysayingyes,he/sheis legallyconsentingtothedonationoforgansandtissue.Thisisanimportantdecisiontosharewithfamily.

Formoreinformationaboutorganandtissuedonation,pleasevisitwww.donatelifenj.org.

VOTER REGISTRaTIOnTo expedite the voter registration process, the MVC sends voter registrationapplicationswithalldriverlicenserenewalsandchangesofaddress.InafurtherefforttoencourageallqualifiedcitizensofNewJerseytoregistertovote,theMVChasvoterregistrationapplicationsatall itsagenciesandcustomersareaskediftheywishtoregisterduringlicensingtransactions.Theseapplicationscanbeusedbyeligibleresidentswhileconductinglicensingtransactions.TheinformationcollectedfromthevoterregistrationapplicationistransferredtotheNewJerseyAttorneyGeneral’sDivisionofElectionsforinputintothestatewideVoterRegistrationSystem.

MaPSMapsareusedbymotoriststoguidethemintheirtravels.TheN.J.Departmentof Transportation publishes an official transportation map and guide forhighwaysandpublictransit.Italsocontainsusefultipsonawidearrayofcultural,recreationalandhistoricalattractionsthatmakeNewJerseyspecial.Toobtainamap,call(800)Jersey-7(800-537-7397).

Motoristsshouldkeepmapsof theirdestinations in theirvehiclesandshouldknowhowtoreadthem.Mapsareeasytouse.Forexample,tofindatown,amotoristmayuse themap’s index,whichnotesa letterandnumberafter thetown’sname.Themotoristcanthenmatcheachtothenumbersandlettersonthesidesofthemap.Thelinesthatcrossthemapfromthatnumberandlettercombinationformadefinedarea.Thiswillhelplocateatowninthatsquared-offareaofthemap.

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Chapter 11


Check blind Spotskeep the Proper DistanceHandling Dangerous SurfacesRide Cautiously at nightknow HazardsCarrying Passengers and Cargolearning Group RidingRide Sober and awakeChecking the Motorcycleaccessories and Modifications

182184187190190193195197198199

MOTOrCyCLeManual

nJ Definition of a MotorcyclePractice Riding and Road TestPrepare to RideControl for SafetySee, be Seen and be Hearduse the SIPDE System

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nEw JERSEy’S DEfInITIOn Of a MOTORCyClEAccordingtoNewJerseylaw,amotorcyclecanbeamotorbike,abicyclewithamotorattachedoranymotor-operatedvehicleofthebicycleortricycletype,exceptforamotorizedbicycle.

Themotorpowercanbepartofthevehicleorattached.Thevehiclemusthaveasaddleorseatforthedrivertositastrideorupon,oraplatformonwhichtostand.

GettinG A motorcycLe License

Every New Jersey resident who operates a motorcycle or “trike” must havea New Jersey motorcycle driver license or a motorcycle endorsement on anexisting New Jersey basic or commercial license. One exception exists: Theoperatorofathree-wheeledmotorvehicle,equippedwithasinglecabthathasaglazingaroundtheoccupant,seatssimilartothoseofapassengervehicleortruck, seatbeltsorautomotivesteering, isnot required tohaveamotorcycleendorsementaddedtotheirbasicautomobiledriverlicense,andisnotrequiredtowearahelmet.

Toqualifyforamotorcyclelicenseormotorcycleendorsement,applicantsmustbeatleast17yearsold.Visitanymotorvehicleagencytoobtainandcompleteanapplicationforamotorcyclepermit.

Those who have never had a driver license before, as well as those in NewJersey’sGraduatedDriversLicense(GDL)Program,mustfollowtherulesandregulationsfortheGDLProgram.(SeeNJDriverManualformoreinformation.)

Inorder toobtainapermit,present thecompletedapplicationform,meetNewJersey’s6PointIDVerificationProgram-proofofage,identity,SocialSecuritynumber,addressandevidenceofauthorizedpresenceintheUnitedStatesunderfederallaw-andpaythe$5fee.Theexaminationpermitisvalidfor90days.AllapplicantswillreceivethismanualandaNJDriverManual.Thesemanualscontainapplicable rules and regulations used in the examination and list informationaboutmotorvehicleagencies,inspectionstationsandtestfacilities.

After studying the NJ Driver Manual and the Motorcycle Manual, take thewrittenandvisiontests.NotethatapplicantsmustpassthevisionandwrittentestsbeforetheMVCcanvalidateapermitforpracticedriving.

Applicants must also pass the MVC road test, which is offered at certainfacilities.SeeMVCLocationsandHours(page212)foralistofroadtestsites.


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Scheduleanappointmentfortheroadtestafterpassingthewrittenandvisiontests.However,applicantsmaynottaketheroadtestforatleast20daysafterthepermitisvalidated.

roAD test requirements

Applicantsmusthaveidentification,avalidatedpermitandamotorcyclethatisproperly registered, insured and inspected. A motorcycle-licensed rider mustalsoaccompanyanapplicant.IfanapplicanthasavalidClassD(basic)driverlicense,theirmotorcyclemaybetransportedtothesiteonaflatbedtruck,pickuptruckortrailer,whicheliminatestheneedforanaccompanyingmotorcyclist.

Afterpassingtheroadtest,presentthevalidatedpermitandskillstestpaperworktoanymotorvehicleagency.Pay$24*forafour-yearphotolicense.

TheMVCwilladdthemotorcycleendorsementonavalidbasicorcommercialdriverlicense.Themotorcycleendorsementis$18*.ApplicantswhodonothaveacurrentNewJerseylicensewillbeissuedaClassEmotorcycle-onlylicense.

Alternative to Road Test: An applicant may obtain a road test waiver bysuccessfullycompletingaMotorcycleSafetyEducationProgram(MSEP)BasicRiderCourse(BRC).SeeRoadTestWaiverparagraphfordetails.

New Jersey’s annual motorcycle registration fee is $65*. To register amotorcycle,bringavalidinsurancecardandtitletoamotorvehicleagency.Onelicenseplate,withavalidregistrationstickeraffixed,mustbedisplayedontherearofthemotorcycleatalltimes.Afterpassinginspection,avalidinspectionstickerwillbeplacedonthelicenseplate.

For a one-time $10* dollar fee, qualified motorcyclists can obtain disabledlicenseplatesthatallowthemtopark inspeciallymarkedparkingspaces.Toobtainanapplication,call(609) 292-6500orcontact:

mVC Special plate Unit p.o. Box 015 trenton, nJ 08666-0015

*Confirmfeesbycalling(888)486-3339toll-freefromNewJerseyand(609)292-6500fromout-of-stateorbyvisitingtheMVCWebsiteatwww.njmvc.gov.

MotorcycleinspectionsareheldfromApril1throughOctober31.

Stop with front tire in box

StartStart

Sharp left turn

Right U-turnRight U-turn

StartStart

Over 500ccOver 500cc

500cc and under500cc and under

PRaCTICE RIDInG anD ROaD TESTThe MVC recommends that all applicants practice all riding skills. However,emphasisisplacedonthefollowingskills:

1. turning & Stopping:Testsanapplicant’sability tocontrol themotorcyclewhileturningandstopping.Theexaminerwillevaluateanapplicant’sabilitytostaywithinthepathoftheturnwithoutputtingafootdown,andstoppingsafelyinapaintedstopboxwithoutputtingafootdownorskiddingthevehicle.

2. Cone Weave (U-turn): Testsanapplicant’sabilitytocontrolthemotorcycleatlowspeedwhileweavingthroughconesandmakingaU-Turninadesignatedarea.Theexaminerwillevaluateanapplicant’sabilitytostaywithinthepathoftravelwithouttouchinglinesorconesandwithoutputtingafootdown.Conesare12feetapartwithatwo-footoffset.


Obstacle turn

StartStart

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3. Braking: Testsanapplicant’sabilitytosafelybrakequickly.Anapplicantwillbeevaluatedonstoppingdistanceinrelationtospeedoftravel.

4. obstacle Swerve: Tests an applicant’s ability to swerve the motorcyclequicklytoavoidanobstacle.Anapplicantwillbeevaluatedontheabilitytostaywithinthepathoftravelandturnquicklywithouttouchingaboundaryline.

Note:Anapplicantwhostallsthemotorcycleduringtheskillstestwillfail.

ROaD TEST waIVERToqualifyforaroadtestwaiver,applicantsmusttakeanapprovedNewJerseyMotorcycleSafetyEducationProgramBRC.Thereareseveralcourselocationsthroughoutthestate.

The BRC is a three-day course with 100 percent participation required.Applicantswhosuccessfullycompletetheclasswillgetavalidated(stamped)permit, a stamped waiver form and a completion card. Show these threedocuments,alongwith6PointsofID,atanyMVCdrivertestingandagencysitetoreceiveamotorcyclelicenseorendorsement*.Participationinthesecoursesisvoluntary.

Fordetailsaboutthecourseand itsclassesand locations,pleasevisitwww.njridesafe.org.

*Someapplicantsmaynotqualifyfortheroadtestwaiver,includingthoseintheGraduatedDriverLicense(GDL)Program.ContactMVCfordetails.

TiresCondition, Tread Depth, Inflation

TiresCondition, Tread Depth, Inflation

Clean, adjust mirrorsClean, adjust mirrors

Check gas and oil levelsCheck gas and oil levels

Adjusted and lubricated drive chainAdjusted and lubricated drive chain

Try the horn and controls before you startTry the horn and controls before you start

HeadlightsHeadlights

PREPaRE TO RIDEAs a rider, properly preparing for a trip is critical to safety. Before riding amotorcycle, check all gear and the motorcycle itself. If the motorcycle isborrowed,determineifanyoperationaldifferencesexist.

GeAr checK

Agoodriderwears:

• AnapprovedU.S.DepartmentofTransportationhelmet.• Approvedeyeandfaceprotection.• Protectiveclothing.

Thehelmetisthesinglemostimportantpieceofequipmentridersmustwear.Oneofeveryfivereportedmotorcyclecrashesinvolvesheadorneckinjuries.Ahelmetimprovessurvivalincrashes.Makesuretheapprovedhelmetisfastenedsecurely. A properly fitting, approved helmet can increase rider comfort andreducefatigue.

heLmet use

HelmetsarerequiredbylawinNewJersey.Riderswhodonotwearthemcanbefined.

Considertheseadditionalfacts:


THREE-QUARTERONE-HALFFULL FACE

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• Anapprovedhelmetensuresadequateperipheralvisionforriders.Astudyofmore than900motorcyclecrashes, inwhich40percentof the ridersworehelmets,foundnocaseswhereahelmetimpairedarider’svisionormaskeddanger.

• Mostcrasheshappenonshort trips– less thanfivemiles long–shortlyafterstarting.

• Evenlow-speedcrashescanbefatal.Infact,mostoccuratspeedsslowerthan30mph.Atthesespeeds,helmetscancutthenumberandseverityofheadinjuriesbyhalf.

Regardlessofspeed,riderswithouthelmetsarethreetimesmorelikelytodiefromheadinjuriesthanriderswearinghelmetsatthetimeofacrash.

heLmet seLection

Approved helmets come in three types: one-half, three-quarter and full face.Eachmust:

• MeetU.S.DepartmentofTransportation (USDOT)FederalMotorVehicleStandard(FMVSS)218.LookfortheDOTsymbolontheoutsidebackofthehelmet.Then,lookforalabelinsidethehelmetwiththemanufacturer’sname,monthandyearofmanufacture,constructionmaterials,model,sizeandotherimportantinformation.

• Beequippedwithachinstrapandhaveatleastfoursquareinchesofred,amberorwhitereflectorizedtapeoneachside.

• Lackobviousdefects,suchascracks,loosepaddingorfrayedstraps.

Note:Notallhelmetdamageisobvious.Toensuresafety,donotbuyausedhelmet.

Whenriding,keepthehelmetsecurelyfastenedatalltimes.Aloosenedhelmetislikelytofalloffduringacrash.

eye AnD fAce Protection

Afull-facehelmetoffersridersthemostprotection.Butitisnottheonlychoice.Aplasticfaceshielddoesprotectarider’sfacefromwind,dust,dirt,rain,insectsanddebris.Regardless,attentionshouldbeontheroad-notonthesepotentialproblems.Chooseequipment that is not distracting, so complete attention isontheroad.Gogglescanprotectriders’eyesfromallthesethings,butdonotprotecttherestofarider’sface–butafaceshielddoes.Mostwindshieldswillnotprotecteyesfromwind.Neitherwilleyeglassesorsunglasses.Glasseswillnotkeepeyesfromwateringandmightblowoffwhileriding.Thefaceshieldand/orgogglesmustmeetU.S.DepartmentofTransportationandNewJerseystandards, and should have the ANSI label. Because they are plastic, faceshields and goggles will develop scratches and become brittle with age. Formaximumprotectionandcomfort,replaceequipmentregularly.

Effectiveeyeorfaceprotectionmust:

• Bescratch-free.• Bemadeofshatterproofmaterial.• Giveaclearviewtoeitherside.• Fastensecurely.• Allowairtopassthrough,soitwillnotfog.• Allowenoughroomforeyeglassesorsunglasses,ifneeded.• Tintedeyeprotectionshouldnotbewornatnightoranyothertimewhen

littlelightisavailable.

cLothinG

Clothing helps protect riders in crashes and in other situations. Jackets andpantsshouldcoverarmsandlegscompletely,whilestillprovidingcomfort.Bothshouldfitsnuglyenoughthatthereisnoflappinginthewindandlooselyenoughtolettheridermovefreely.

Bright,reflectivehelmetsandclothinghelpothersseeamotorcyclist.

Leatheroffersthemostprotection,butsturdy,syntheticmaterialalsoprovidesadditional protection. Wear a jacket even in warm weather. Many motorcyclejacketsaredesignedtoprotectwithoutover-heating,evenonwarmdays.

Bootsandshoesshouldbehighenoughtocoveranklesandsturdyenoughtoprovidesupport.Solesshouldbemadeofahard,durablematerial.Heelsshouldbeshortenoughnot tocatchon roughsurfaces.Boot strapsandshoelacesshouldbetuckedin.

Full-fingerleatherorothermotorcycleglovesarealsoimportantastheyprovideagoodgriponcontrols,whilehelpingtoprotecthandsduringacrash.


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In cold or wet weather, clothes should keep riders warm and dry, as well asprotect riders from injury. Safely controlling a motorcycle with numb arms isnearly impossible. Riding for long periods in cold weather can cause severechill,fatigueandhypothermia.Awinterjacketshouldbewindresistantandfitsnuglyattheneck,wristsandwaist.Rainsuitsshouldbesizedsotheyareeasilyremovedandputon,aswellasdesignedforriding.Otherwise,thesesuitscantearapartorballoonupathighspeeds.Someglovesaremadetokeepwindorrainfromtravelingupsleeves.

motorcycLe checK

If something is wrong with the motorcycle, it is important to find out beforeenteringtraffic.Checkthesethingsbeforeeveryride:

tires.Keeptiresingoodcondition.Checkthetirepressureusingagauge.Atiremaybeunderinflatedwithoutanoticeablechangeinappearance.Motorcyclesdo not handle properly if the air pressure is too low or too high. Check theowner’smanualfortherightamountofair.

tire tread. Worn or uneven tread can make the motorcycle hard to handle,particularlyonwetpavement.

rims/Spokes. Checkforbent,looseordamagedrimsandspokes.

damage. Checkforcutsorobjectsstucktothetread.Also,checkthesidewallsforcracks.Ablowoutonamotorcyclecanbeextremelydangerous.

Controls.Makesurethecontrolsworksmoothly.Thethrottleshouldsnapbackwhenreleased.

Cables.Checkforkinksorbrokenstrands.Ifacablebreakswhileriding,themotorcyclecouldbecomedifficulttocontrolandacrashcouldresult.

lights.Makesurealllightswork.Keepthemclean.

turn Signal.Checkallfourturnsignallights.Makesuretheyflashwhenonandarebright(easilyseen).

headlight.Checktheheadlight.Indaytime,passahandinfrontofthebeamtomakesureitworks.Atnight,trythedimmertomakesurebothhighandlowbeamswork.

tail and Brake light. Tryeachofthebrakecontrolsandmakesurethateachoneflashesthebrakelight.

horn. Ensurethehornworks.

Chain.Makesurethedrivechainisproperlyadjustedandlubricated.Checkthemotorcycleowner’smanualforinformationregardingchainadjustment.

Front brake leverClutch lever

Rear brake pedalGear-change pedal

Kick starter (if equipped)

Ignition key (varies)

Speedometer & Odometer Tachometer (if equipped)

Throttle

Electric start button

Engine cut-off switch

Horn button

Light switch (high/low)

Turn-signal switch

mirrors.Cleanandadjustbothmirrorsbeforeriding.Itisdifficultanddangeroustoadjustamirrorwhileriding.Swingbothmirrorsfarenoughoutwardtoshowabouthalfthelanebehindandasmuchaspossibleofthelanetotheside.

gas and oil. Check gas and oil levels before riding. Running out of gas isinconvenient. It canalsobedangerousas itmakes leaving the roaddifficult.Lack of oil can seize an engine, causing the rear wheel to lock and loss ofcontrol.

Get fAmiLiAr with the motorcycLe

Be completely familiar with the motorcycle before riding it. If the cycle isborrowed:

• Checkeverything.• Learnwhereallcontrolsare,particularlyturnsignals,horn,headlightswitch,

fuel control valve and motor cut-off switch. Be able to find and operatethemwithouthavingtolook.

• Checkcontrols.Learnthegearpattern.Workthethrottle,clutchandbrakesafewtimesbeforeriding.

• Rideverycautiouslyuntillearninghowthemotorcyclehandles.Forinstance,taketurnsslowlyandallowforextrastoppingdistance.


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COnTROl fOR SafETyTolearnhowtocontroldirection,speedandbalance,allridersshouldpractice.Thismanualsuggestswaystokeepcontrolofthemotorcycleandavoidcrashes.

boDy Position

Tocontrolamotorcyclewell,ridersmustbeintheproperposition.

posture.Keepbackstraightandheadandeyesup.Armsshouldbe relaxedandslightlybent.

Hands. Hold the handlegrips firmly. This helps riders keep a solid grip if themotorcyclebounces.Arider’srightwristshouldbedown.Thishelpskeepariderfromusingtoomuchthrottle.

Knees. Keepkneesagainst thegastanktokeepbalanceasthemotorcycleturns.

feet.Keepfeetfirmlyonthefootpegs.Firmfootinghelpskeepbalance.Donotdragfeetalongtheground.Feetcatchingsomethingonthegroundcancauselossofcontrol.Keepfeetnearthecontrolstogettothemquickly,ifnecessary.Also,keeptoespointeduptokeepthemfromgettingcaught inbetweentheroadandthefootpeg.

turninG

Newridersoftentrytotakecurvesorturnstoofastandcannotholdit,causingpanicandbringingthemotorcycle intoanother laneof trafficoroff theroad.Braking toohard,whichmaycausea skidor lossof control, canalsooccur.Ridersmustlearntojudgehowfastacurvemaysafelybetaken.Approachallturnswithcaution.Whenturning,usethefollowingstepsforbettercontrol:

Slow down. Reducespeedbeforeaturn.Keepspeeddownuntilcompletingtheturn.

look. Useheadturnsfordirectionalcontrolandtolookthroughtheturn.

lean. Toturn,themotorcyclemust lean.Toleanthemotorcycle,pushonthehandgrip in the direction of the turn. Maintain steady speed or accelerategradually. Avoid decelerating in the turn. Higher speeds and/or tighter turnsrequiremorelean.Innormalturns,theriderandmotorcycleshouldleantogether.Inslow,tightturns,leanthemotorcycleonlyandkeepyourbodystraight.

brAKinG/stoPPinG

Motorcycleshavetwobrakes.Bothareneededtostopeffectivelyandsafely.The front brake provides about three-quarters of the stopping power. Frontwheel locks release the leveruntil the tire regains traction. If the rearwheellocks,donotreleaseit.Keepitlockeduntilthemotorcyclecomestoastop.

Whenbraking,remember:

• Practiceusingthefrontbrakecorrectly.Brakingisanactivitythatrequirescontinuouspracticeformaximumproficiency.

• When slowing down or stopping, always use both brakes. This ensuresridershaveenoughskilltousethefrontbrakeproperlywhenneeded.

• Applybothbrakesatthesametime.Donotapplytherearbrakefirst.

shiftinG

There ismore toshifting thangetting themotorcycle toacceleratesmoothly.Instabilitycanoccurifthegearsareusedincorrectlywhendownshifting,turningorstartingfromastandstillonahill.Changegearstomatchtheenginespeedwiththeroadspeed.

DownshiftinG

Itisimportanttoshiftdownthroughgearsfortheappropriateslowdownorstop.Thisensuresridersalwayshaveenoughpowertoacceleratequicklyifneeded.Travelattheproperspeedtoshiftintoalowergear.Motorcyclesmaylurch,andtherearwheelmaylockup,ifdownshiftingisperformedattoofastaspeedortheclutchisreleasedabruptly.Remember:

riding downhill. Motorcyclestendtopickupspeedonadowngrade.

Shifting into first gear. Onmanymotorcycles,thespeedrangeforfirstgearisverylow.Undertheseconditions,usethebrakestoslowdownenoughtoshiftsafely.

GoinG uPhiLL

Itismoredifficulttogetthemotorcyclemovingonanupgradethanitisonflatground.Thereisalwaysadangerofrollingbackwardandintoanothervehicle.Remember:

• Usethe frontbrake tohold themotorcyclewhilestarting theengineandshiftingintofirstgear.

• Changetothefootbraketoholdthecyclewhileoperatingthethrottlewiththerighthand.

• Formorepower,openthethrottlealittlebit.• Releasetheclutchgradually.Thefrontwheelmaycomeoffthegroundor

theenginemaystop,orboth,ifitreleasedtooquickly.


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• Release the foot brake when the engine begins to slow down and themotorcyclebeginstomoveforward.

SEE, bE SEEn anD bE HEaRDIncrasheswithmotorcyclists,othermotoristsoftensaythattheyneversawthemotorcycle.Fromaheadorfrombehind,amotorcycle’soutlineissmall.Withthisbeingthecase,itiseasierforotherstomisjudgedistanceandspeed.However,therearewaystomakeridersandmotorcyclesmorenoticeable.

cLothinG

Bright, reflective helmets and clothing help others see the motorcycle.Upper body clothing should be brightly colored orange, yellow, red or green.Fluorescentcolorsaresufficientinbrightdaylight.Atnight,reflectiveorretro-reflective*clothingisbest.

heADLiGht

Thebestwaytohelpothersseeyouistokeepheadlightsonatalltimes.Duringthe day, a motorcycle with lights off is twice as likely to go unnoticed. Theheadlightinmanylater-modelmotorcyclescomesonautomatically.

siGnALs

Signalscommunicateintentionstootherroadusers.

turn Signals**

Useturnsignalsto:

• Clearlyindicatelanechangesandotherridingmaneuvers.• Becomeeasier tosee.Othermotoristscaneasilyseeturnsignals. It isa

goodideatousesignalsforeverylanechangeandturn.

Note:Turnoffturnsignalsaftertheturnorlanechangeismade.Ifnot,othermotoristsmightbeconfusedaboutarider’sintentions.

*Reflective materials are passive and do not change their brightness. Retro-reflective materials change brightness with surrounding light sources. Theygreatlyincreasethevisibilityofobjectsatnightorduringinclementweather.

**NJSA39:4-126:Therequiredsignalmaybegiven“bymeansofthehandandarm…orbyanapprovedmechanicalorelectricaldevice....Asignalofintentiontoturnrightorleftwhenrequiredshallbegivencontinuouslyduringlessthanthe100feettraveledbythevehiclebeforeturning.”

Visible area

brAKe LiGht

Helpothersseethemotorcyclebytappingthefootbrakelightlybeforeslowingdown.Thisactionwillflashthebrakelight.Itisveryimportanttosignalothersbyflashingthebrakelightwhen:

• Slowing down more quickly than might be expected. (For example, beforemakingaturnfromahigh-speedhighway.)

•Slowingdownwhereothersmaynotexpectit.(Forexample,beforeslowingdowntoturninthemiddleofablock.)

•Whenbeingfollowedclosely,flashthebrakelightbeforeslowingdown.(Thiscannotbedone,however,inanemergencysituation.)

horn

Usethehorntogettheattentionofothermotorists,butdonotrelysolelyonit.Usethehornwhensomeoneisinthedriver’sseatofavehicleparkedonthestreet, ridingabicycleorwalking in thestreetandmaypull into traffic. Inanemergency,usethehornandbereadytoslowdownorturnawayfromdanger.

Thetwobiggestdangersare:

• Anoncomingvehicleturningleft.• Vehiclesonsidestreetspullingintotraffic.Nevercounton“eyecontact”as

asignthatamotoristisawareandwillyieldtheright-of-way.Alltoooften,amotoristlooksrightatamotorcycleandstilldoesnotseeit.

roAD Position

Motoristshaveverylittlechoiceaboutpositioningintravellanes.However,eachmarkedlaneprovidesthreepossibletravelpathstomotorcyclists.Tobeseen

mostclearly,rideintheportionofthelanewhereitismostlikelyamotoristcanseeamotorcycle.Whenbehindavehicle,ridewherethemotoristcanseethe


BLIND AREA

BLIND AREA

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

GREASE STRIP

MINI-LANES WITHIN A LANE

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motorcycleintherearviewmirror.Seetherearviewmirrorofthevehicle?Ifso,itismorelikelythedrivercanseethemotorcycle.

bLinD sPots

Whenalongsideavehicle,speedupandgetbyquicklyordropback.

center Position

It is not true that riding in the center of a lane is dangerous becauseof thegreasestripresidueleftbyothervehicles.Still,itisbesttorideslightlytotheleftortherightofcenter.Unlesstheroadiswetwithrain,tractiononmostgreasestrips is thesameastherestof thepavement.However,biggreasebuildupsfoundatbusyintersectionsortollboothsshouldbeavoided.

intersections

Entertheintersectionwithaspacecushiononeithersidethatallowsevasiveactionifnecessary.Approachanintersectionwiththebestviewofoncomingtraffic.Whenapproachingablindintersection,movetotheportionofthelaneinothermotorists’fieldofsight.Remember,thekeyistoseeasmuchaspossible.

uSE THE SIPDE SySTEMNothingcanguaranteethatothermotoristswillseeamotorcycle.Agoodriderisalwayslookingtostayoutoftrouble.

ExperiencedridersuseasystemknownasSIPDE,anacronymforaprocessusedtomakejudgmentsandtakeactionintraffic.Itstandsfor:

Hereisacloserlookateachofthesesteps.

scAn

Search aggressively for potential hazards. Scanning provides information tomakedecisionsinenoughtimetotakeaction.

iDentify

Locatehazardsandpotentialconflicts.Hazardscanbedividedintothreegroupsbasedonhowcriticaltheireffectmaybe.

Cars, trucks and other vehicles. Theysharetheroadwithmotorcycles.Theymovequickly.Reactionstothemmustbequickandaccurate.

pedestrians and animals. Theyarecharacterizedbyunpredictabilityandquickmovement.


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Stationary objects. Potholes, guardrails, bridges, roadway signs, hedges orrowsoftreeswillonlycreateorcomplicateridingstrategy.

The greatest potential for conflict between riders and other traffic is atintersections. An intersection can be in the middle of an urban area or at adrivewayonaresidentialstreet.Mostmotorcycle/automobilecrashesoccuratintersections. Oncoming vehicles turning left into the path of the motorcyclecausesmanycrashes.Therefore,usingSIPDEatintersectionsiscritical.

Beforeenteringanintersection,searchfor:

• Oncomingtrafficthatmayturnleft.• Trafficfromtheleft.• Trafficfromtheright.• Trafficapproachingfrombehind.

Be alert at intersections with limited visibility. Be visually aware of busysurroundingsthatmightcamouflageamotorcycle.

PreDict

Anticipate the effect of hazards. The direction a potential hazard moves isimportant.Clearly,avehiclemovingawayisnotascriticalasavehiclemovingintoarider’spath.

Determinetheeffectofthehazardandwhereacollisionmightoccur.Howcriticalisthehazard?Howprobableisacollision?Thisisthe“Whatif…?”phaseofSIPDEthatdependsonknowledgeandexperience.Now,estimatetheconsequencesofthehazard.Howmightthehazard-orefforttoavoidit-affectothers?

DeciDe

Determinehowtoreducethehazardby:

• Communicatingpresenceandintentions.• Adjustingspeed.• Adjustingposition.

Communicationisthemostpassiveactionbecauseitdependsontheresponseofsomeoneelse.Uselightsandhonkthehornbutdonotrelyontheactionsofothers.Speedadjustmentcanbeacceleration,slowingorstopping.Positionadjustmentcanbechanginglanepositionorcompletelychangingdirection.

Inbothcases,thedegreeofadjustmentdependsonhowcriticalthehazardisandhowmuchtimeandspaceisavailable:Themoretimeandspace,thelessamountofrisk.

Area seen in mirrors

Rider’s blind spot

In high potential risk areas, such as intersections, reduce reaction time byincreasingspaceandreadyingpossibleescaperoutes.

execute

Thisiswhenridingskillscomeintoplay,whichmustbecomesecondnature.Thebestdecisionwillbemeaninglesswithouttheskillstocarryitout.Ridersmustridewithintheirownability.

CHECk blInD SPOTSusinG heAD checKs

Motorcycleshaveblindspotsjustlikeothervehiclesdo.Whenchanginglanes,

turnandlookatthetrafficbehind.Thatistheonlywaytoseeavehiclebehindandinthenextlane.Itisparticularlyimportantbeforearapidlanechange.Manyridersmakerapidlanechangesoutofnecessityandhabit.Thereisverylittlechanceamotoristinthenextlanecanreactquicklyenoughtoavoidarapidlanechange.Checkfirst,thenchange.

On a roadway with several lanes, check the far lanes, too. Another motoristcouldbeheadedforthesamespace.

usinG mirrors

Trafficsituationschangequickly.Checkmirrorseveryfewsecondstoseewhattraffic isapproachingfrombehind.Thatway,passingcarsandothervehicleswillnotbeasurprise.Thereareparticulartimeswhenitisveryimportanttousemirrors:

• When slowing down or stopping suddenly. If there is a vehicle closebehind,itmaybebettertokeepmoving.

• When stopped at an intersection. Watch vehicles approaching frombehind.Evasiveactionmaybenecessaryifanapproachingmotoristisnotpayingattention.


CORRECT FOR INSIDE CURVES CORRECT FOR OUTSIDE CURVES

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• When changing lanes.Makesurenooneisabouttopass.• When turning. Watchvehiclesbehind,especiallywhenmakingwhatcould

beanunexpectedturn,suchasintoalleys,drivewaysandsidestreets.

Manymotorcycleshaveround,convexmirrors,whichprovideabiggerviewoftheroadbehindthanflatmirrors.However,thesemirrorsmakevehiclesseemfartherawaythentheyreallyare.Togetusedtoconvexmirrors:Whilestopped,pickoutaparkedvehicleinthemirrorandformamentalimageofhowfarawayitis.Then,turnaroundandlooktoseehowcloseitreallyis.Practicehelpsridersjudge distance well. Even then, allow extra distance before changing lanes.Regardless,alwaysmakeafinalheadcheckbeforechanginglanes.

PositioninG

Motorcycle riders can see thingsothermotorists cannot seeby riding in theportionofthelanewheretheyaremostlikelytobeseen.

riding through curves.Movetoonesideofthelaneortheothertogetabetterviewofthecurve.

Watching at intersections.Riderscanpeekeasilyaroundbuildings,parkedvehiclesorbushestoseeifanythingiscoming.Othermotoristscannot.

Stopping at blind intersections.Blindintersectionscanmakeithardtoseedangercomingfromtheside.Atastopsign,stoptherefirst.Then,edgeforwardandstopagain,justshortofwherethecross-trafficlanemeetsthelaneyouarein.Fromthatposition,leanforwardandlookaroundbuildings,parkedvehiclesorbushes.Keepthefrontwheeloutofthecrosslaneoftravelwhiledoingthis.

Seeing at the roadside. Angle the motorcycle across the road to see bothdirectionswithoutstraining,whichisparticularlyimportantbeforemakingaU-turn.

kEEP THE PROPER DISTanCEThebestprotection isdistancebetweenamotorcycleandothermotorists. Ifanothermotoristmakesamistake,distanceprovidestimetoreactandtimetomoveaway.

front

Underordinaryconditions,stayatleasttwosecondsbehindthevehicleahead.Thisprovidesplentyoftimetoreactifthemotoristaheadstopssuddenly.Italsoprovidesabetterviewofthingsintheroad,suchaspotholes,slipperyspots,tiretreads,cansandotherdebris.

Staywellbehindthevehicleahead,evenwhenstopped.Thiswillmakeiteasiertogetoutofthewayifsomeonebearsdownfrombehind.

siDe

Foroncomingorpassingvehicles,movetothecenterofthelane.

Aridercanmovefromonesideofthelanetoanothertoincreasetheirdistancefromothervehicles.Anexperiencedriderchangespositionfromonesideofthelanetoanotherastrafficconditionschange.

Theseroadconditionsrequirelanepositionchanges:

passing vehicles.Whenanothervehiclepassesfrombehind,movetowardthecenterofthelane.Aslightmistakebyeithermotoristcouldcauseasideswipe.Movingtowardthecenterofthelanealsohelpsavoidextendedmirrorsorthingsthrownfromvehiclewindows.Dothesameforoncomingvehicles.Givewaytolargetrucks.Theycancreateguststhataffectcontrol.Thereismoreroomforerrorinthemiddleofalane.


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riding and intersections. Most crashes between vehicles and motorcycleshappenatintersections.Motoristsoftenhaveahardtimeseeingamotorcyclecomingdirectlyatthem.Avehiclemaymakealeftturnacrossthemotorcycle’spathoravehiclemayenterfromasidestreetintothemotorcycle’spath.Thesearetwoleadingcausesofmotorcyclecrashesatintersections.

Intheeventavehicleentersarider’spath:

• Moveasfarawayfromthevehicleaspossible.Ifthevehicleisontheright,movetotheleft.Foravehicleontheleftoranoncomingvehiclewithaleftturnsignalon,movetotheright.

• Changelanes.Otherwise,movetothefarsideofthecurrentlane.• Approachslowly.Ifamotoristdoespulloutsuddenly,chancesofmakinga

quickstoporaquickturnarebetter.

Atintersections,moveasfarawayfromoncomingvehiclesassafelyaspossible.

passing parked vehicles.Whenpassingparkedvehicles,themotorcycleriderhasanadvantageoverothermotorists.Stay in the leftportionof the lane toavoidproblemscausedbydoorsopening,motoristsgettingoutoftheirvehiclesor people stepping into traffic from between vehicles. A bigger problem isvehiclespullingout.Motoristscanfailtoseeamotorcycleduringaquicklook

behindfortraffic.MotoristsmakingU-Turnsarealsoadanger.Themotorcyclistseesthempulloutandslowsdownorchanges lanesto let thementer.Thensuddenly, the vehicle turns across the road and blocks the lane. This leavesthemotorcyclistwithnoplacetogo.ApproachvehiclespullingoutormakingaU-Turnverycautiously.

Staytotheleftofthelanetopassparkedvehicles.

Sharing lanes. Vehicles and motorcycles each need a full lane to operatesafely.Donotsharelanes.

Topreventlanesharing:

• Donotridebetweenrowsofstoppedvehicles.• Donot try tosqueezepastastoppedvehicle in thesame lane.Anything

couldhappen-ahandcouldcomeoutofawindow,adoorcouldopenoravehiclecouldturnsuddenly.

• Discourage lane sharing by others. The best way to do this is to keep acenterlanepositioninsituationswhereothermotoristsmightbetemptedtosqueezeby.

Movingtothefarsideofa lane in thesesituations invites lanesharing.Laneplacementdependsondifferentcircumstances.Rideintheportionofthelanewhereitiseasiesttobeseen.

merging vehicles. Vehicles entering a highway from an entrance ramp mayhavetroubleseeingamotorcycle.Onereasonisthatmotorcycleheadlightsaredifficulttoseeatanangle.Changelanesormakespacetoletthemotoristin.Donotassumethatmotoristsalwaysseemotorcycles.

Vehicles alongside. Do not ride alongside vehicles whenever possible. Avehicle in the next lane could change lanes without warning. Vehicles in thenextlanealsoblockanescaperoute.Speedupordropbackuntilitisclearonbothsides.

bAcK

Many riders complain about tailgaters, which are motorists that follow tooclosely.Whenanothervehicleisfollowingtooclosely:

• Openupadditionalfollowingdistance.Thisprovidesthetailgatermoretimetoreactinanemergency.

• Slowdownsothetailgatercanpasswhenclear.


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HanDlInG DanGEROuS SuRfaCESA motorcycle is delicately balanced on two wheels. To stay upright, the twowheels must have good traction. Any surface that affects the motorcycle’stractionwillaffectitsbalance.Anyslipperysurfaceincreasesthechanceofariderfalling.Dangeroussurfacesinclude:

• Slipperysurfaces.• Unevensurfaces.• Groovesandgratings.• Slopingsurfaces.

Someslipperysurfacesare:

• Liquids.• Sand/Gravel.• Leaves.• Wetpavement,particularlyjustafterrainandbeforesurfaceoilwashesto

thesideoftheroad.• Gravel roads or places where sand and gravel have collected on paved

roads.• Mud,snowandice.• Wetlanemarkingsandsteelsurfaces(manholecovers).• Metalconstructionplates.

Thereareanumberofprecautionstotaketooperatesafelyonslipperysurfaces.

reduce speed. Ittakeslongertostoponslipperysurfaces.Makeupforthisbytravelingataslowerspeed.Itisparticularlyimportanttoreducespeedoncurves.Remember,speedlimitspostedoncurvesapplytogoodsurfaceconditions.

Use both brakes.Thefrontbrakeisstillmoreeffectivethanthebackbrake-evenonextremelyslipperysurfaces.Onice,ridersshouldnotbrakeatall.

Avoid sudden moves. Anysuddenchangeinspeedordirectioncancauseaskidonslipperysurfaces.Therefore,turn,brake,accelerateandchangegearsaslittleandasgraduallyaspossible.Onaveryslipperysurface,suchasonapatchofice,donotmakechangesuntilafterpassingit.

Avoid slippery areas.Itisimportanttofindthebestpavement.Ridersshouldbeawarethat:

• Oil from vehicles tends to build up in the center of the lane, particularlyneartheintersectionswherevehiclesslowdownorstop.Onwetpavement,therefore, it isbetter tooperate in thegroovescreatedby thewheelsofmovingvehicles.Somepeoplesuggestusing the leftwheel trackall the

This Not This

time.However,itisnotalwaysagoodidea.Instead,rideintheportionofthelanewhereitiseasiesttobeseen.

• Oilspotswhenstoppingorparkingcancauseriderstofall.• Dirtandgraveltendtocollectalongthesidesoftheroad.Itisveryimportant

to stay away from the edge of the road when making sharp turns atintersectionsorenteringandleavingfreewaysathighspeed.

• Certainsectionsoftheroaddryfasterafterrainormeltfasteraftersnow.Tryatalltimestostayinthebestpartofthelane.

It is almost impossible to maintain balance on ice, hard packed snow or wetslippery surfaces.Avoid them if possible. If it is impossible toavoid, proceedacrosstheminastraight line,butDONOTadjustspeed.Keepacenter lanepositionandavoidtheslipperyareabyridingslightlytotheleftorrightofthecenter.Pullintheclutchandcoastacross.Insomeslipperyareas,suchastollbooths,rideslightlytotheleftorrightofthecentertoavoidproblemareas.

uneven surfAces

Watch for uneven surfaces, such as bumps, broken pavement, potholes orrailroadtracks,whileriding.Iftheconditionisbadenough,itcouldaffectcontrolofthemotorcycle.Followtheseguidelinestohandleunevensurfaces:

• Slowdowntoreduceimpact.• Straightenoutsothatthemotorcycleisupright.• Riseslightlyonthefootpegstoabsorbtheshock.

Crossing railroad tracks

Crossrailroadtracksatanangle.Whenturningtocrossthetracksheadon,it


High crowned curve

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maybemoredangerousthancrossingataslightangle.Turnslightlytocrosssomethingrunningparallel,suchastrolleytracks,rutsinthemiddleoftheroadorapavementseam.Tocrosssomethingrunningnexttothemotorcycle,moveawayfarenoughtobeabletocrossitatanangle.Then,justmakeaquicksharpturn.Donottrytoedgeacrossit.Itcouldcatchthetiresandupsetbalance.

grooves and gratings

When riding over rain grooves or a metal bridge grating, the motorcycle willtend to wander back and forth. While this may be uneasy, it is not generallydangerous. Therefore, the best thing to do is ride relaxed and avoid abruptmaneuvers.

Sloping Surfaces

Aroadsurfacethatslopesfromonesidetotheotherisnotdifficulttohandlewhen riding straight ahead. However, in a curve, a slope can make the turnharderifitgoesthewrongway.

Hereisapictureofariderturningleftonahighcrownedcurve,aroadthatishigherinthemiddlethanatthesides.

Aturntotheleftonahighcrownedroadislikeaturnonacurvethatisbankedthewrongway.Thecrownmakestheturnharderby:

• Cuttingdownontheclearancebetweentheleftfootpegandthesurface.• Adding the force of the down slope to the outward force of the turn,

increasingthechanceofaskid.• Makingitnecessarytoturnuphill.

The only way to handle the wrong-way banking is to slow down. This willstraightenthemotorcycleandreducetheoutwardforce.

RIDE CauTIOuSly aT nIGHTAtnight,theabilitytoseeandbeseenislimited.Withoneheadlight,itishardtoseetheconditionoftheroadorsomethingontheroad.Atnight,othermotoristsalsohaveahardtimedistinguishingamotorcycleheadlightandtaillightfromthestrongerlightsofothervehicles.

Herearesomethingsthatwillhelpforridingatnight:

Use the high beam. Usethehighbeamwhenevernotfollowingormeetingavehicle.Beabletostopwithinthelitdistance.

reduce speed. Ifthereissomethinglyingintheroadahead,itwillbedifficulttoseeunlesswithincloseproximity.Whentravelingtoofast,itwillbedifficulttoavoid.Itisimportanttoreducespeedatnight,particularlyonunfamiliarroads.

Use the vehicle ahead. If there isavehicleahead, takeadvantageof it. Itslights canprovideabetter viewof the roadahead than themotorcycle light.Vehicletaillightsbouncingupanddownmaymeanbumpsorroughpavementahead,forinstance.

increase distance.Distanceisdifficulttojudgewellatnight.Makeupforthisbyallowingextradistancefromvehiclesahead.Leavemoreroomoneithersidewhenridingalongsidevehicles.Ensurethereisenoughdistancetopassanothervehicle.

knOw HaZaRDSNomatterhowcarefullyamotorcyclistrides,therewillalwaysbe“tightspots.”Thechanceofescapingsafelydependsonhowquicklyridersreact.Hereishowtohandleafewscenarios:

quicK stoPs

Sincethefrontbrakesuppliesaboutthree-quartersofbrakingpower,useittostopquickly.Squeezethebrakeleversteadilyandfirmly.Donotgrabatit.Applyitwithoutlockingthefrontwheel.

Therearbrakeshouldbeappliedatthesametime.Trynottolocktherearwheel.

tire fAiLure

If thecyclestartshandlingdifferently,pulloffandcheckthetires.Riderswillmoreoftenfeelaflattirethanhearithappen.

Ifthefronttiregoesflat,thesteeringwillfeel“heavy.”Ifthereartiregoesflat,the


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backofthemotorcyclewilltendtojerkfromsidetoside.Ifatiresuddenlylosesair,reactquicklytokeepbalanceby:

• Concentratingonsteeringastraightcourse.• Graduallyclosingthethrottleandcoasting.• Edgingtowardthesideoftheroadandstopping.

stucK throttLe

Sometimes, when trying to close the throttle, it will not turn. If this happenswhenslowingdownfortrafficaheadormakingaturn,reactquicklytopreventacrashby:

• Immediatelyfliptheenginecutoffswitchandpulltheclutch.Thisdisconnectstheenginefromtherearwheelandkeepsridersfromspeedingup.Afterpullingtheclutch,keepitinuntilstoppedorthethrottleisfreed.

• Whenunabletoclosethethrottle,usethemotorcut-offswitchorthekeytoturnofftheengine.Formotorcycleswithoutacut-offswitchorifthekeyisonthesideofthecycle-Stop,andthenturnofftheengine.

Afterstopping,checkthethrottlecablecarefullytofindthesourceofthetrouble.Makecertainthethrottleisworkingfreelybeforecontinuing.

wobbLe

Atvariousspeeds,thefrontwheelcansometimesbegintowobble(shakefromsidetoside).Torideoutawobble:

• Firmlygripthehandlebars.Donotfightthewobble.• Graduallyclosethethrottle.Letthemotorcycleslowdown.(Donotapplythe

brakes;itcouldworsenthewobble.)

Pullofftheroadassoonaspossible.Ifcarryingaheavyload,distributeitmoreevenly.Whenatagasstationorusingatiregauge,checktireinflation.Otherthingsthatcancauseawobbleare:

• Bentorout-of-alignmentwheel.• Poorlyadjustedsteering.• Improperlymountedordesignedwindshield.• Loosewheelbearingsorloosespokes.

off the roAD

Do these two important things when leaving the roadway to check themotorcycleortorest:

Check the roadside.Makesurethesurfaceoftheroadsideisfirmenoughtorideon.Ifitissoftgrass,loosesandorunclear,slownearlyallthewaybefore

leavingtheroadway.Sincemotoristsbehindmightnotexpectthis,makesuretocheckmirrorsandsignalclearlyandearly.

pull well off the road.Getasfarofftheroadaspossible.Amotorcyclebythesideoftheroadisdifficulttospot.Anothervehiclemayalsoleavetheroadway,soitisimportanttobeseen.

roAD hAzArDs

Evenaquickstopmaynotbeenough toavoidhittingsomething.Apieceofdebrisorapotholemightappearsuddenlywhenthevehicleaheadpassesoverit.Orthevehicleaheadmightstopsuddenly.Theonlywaytoavoidacollisionisaquickturnorswerve.

Tomakeaquickturn,leanthemotorcyclequicklyinthenecessarydirection:Thesharpertheturn,themoreseverethelean.

Toget themotorcycle to leanquickly, presson the insideof thehandgrip inthesamenecessarydirection.To turn to the right,presson the insideof therighthandgrip.Thiscausesthefrontwheeltomoveslightlytotheleftandthemotorcycletocontinuestraightahead.Theresultisaleantotheright.

Self-demonstration:Whileridinginastraightline,presstheinsideoftherighthandlebar.Noticethemotorcycleturnstotheright.Practicemakingquickturns,soinanemergency,itissecondnature.

Usingthistechniquemakesthemotorcycleleaninnormalturns,too.Mostridersdonotnoticeitexceptonverysharpturns.

Inanemergency,donotswitchlanesandriskbeinghitbyavehicle.Itispossibleto squeeze by most obstacles without switching lanes. This is one scenariowhenthesizeofthemotorcycleisfavorable.Eveniftheobstacleisavehicle,thereisgenerallytimetomakesuretherearenovehiclesintheotherlane.

riDinG over obJects

Sometimesthereisnooptionbuttorideoveranobject.Handlingobjectsisalotlikeridingoverunevensurfaces.Hereiswhattodo:

• Holdontothehandlegripstightly.• Keepastraightcourse.Thiskeepsthemotorcycleuprightandreducesthe

chanceoffallingonimpact.• Riseslightlyonthefootpegs.Thisallowslegsandarmstoabsorbtheshock

andhelpstheriderfrombeingbouncedoffwhentherearwheelhits.

Thereareotherwaysofhandlingtheseobstacles.However,theyrequirealotofskill.Thethreestepsaboveareasafewaytoavoidobstaclesfoundonhighways.Afterridingoveranobject,alwayschecktiresfordamage.


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fLyinG obJects

Insects, cigarette butts thrown from vehicle windows or rocks kicked up bytires of the vehicle ahead; any of these objects might strike riders. Withoutfaceprotection, riderscanbestruck in theeye, the faceor themouth.Faceprotection still might become smeared or cracked, making it difficult to see.Whateverhappens,donotletitaffectmotorcyclecontrol.Watchtheroadandkeephandsonthehandlebars.Assoonasitissafe,pullofftheroadandrepairanydamage.

AnimALs

Naturally, do everything possible to avoid hitting a small animal. However, intraffic,donotswervefromthelanetoavoidhittingananimal.Thereisabetterchanceofsurvivingimpactwithananimalthanimpactwithavehicle.

Motorcyclestendtoattractdogs.Donotkickachasinganimal. It istooeasytolosecontrolofthemotorcycle.Instead,shiftdownandapproachtheanimalslowly.Afterreachingtheanimal,speedupsuddenly, leavingitbehindquicklyandhelpingthedogloseinterest.

CaRRyInG PaSSEnGERS anD CaRGOBefore carrying a passenger or large loads, know how both could affectmotorcycleoperation.Extraweightchangesthewaythemotorcyclehandles-thewayitbalances,thewayitturns,thewayitspeedsupandthewayitslowsdown.Passengersthatweighlessthantheoperatorimpactoperationmuchlessthanthosewhoareheavier.

PAssenGers

Guidelinestofollowincarryingapassengerorcargo.

• Checkthemotorcycleforadequatepassenger-carryingequipment.• Instructpassengersbeforestarting.• Adjusttiresandshockstoaccountforthepassenger’sweight.

Tocarryapassenger,themotorcyclemusthave:

A proper seat. The seat must be large enough to hold the operator andpassengerwithoutcrowding.Operatorsshouldnothavetomoveanyclosertothefrontofthemotorcyclethannormal.Apassengershouldnothangovertheendoftheseat.

footpegs. Thepassengermusthaveasetoffootpegs.Withoutfirmfooting,anoperatorandpassengercanbothfalloff.

protective equipment. Apassengermusthave thesame typeofprotectiveequipmentastheoperator.

instructinG PAssenGers

Neverassumeanypassengerknowswhattodo.Providecompleteinstructionsbeforestarting.

Apassengershouldbetoldto:

• Getonthemotorcycleaftertheenginehasstarted.• Sitasfarforwardaspossiblewithoutcrowdingtheoperator.• Holdtheoperator’swaist,hipsorbelttightly.• Keepbothfeetonthepegsatalltimes,evenwhenthemotorcycleisstopped.• Lookovertherider’sshoulderinthedirectionofturnsandcurves.• Staydirectlybehindtheoperator, leaningwhentheoperator leans(inthe

samedirection).• Avoidanyunnecessarymotion.

riDinG with A PAssenGer

Whencarryingapassenger,themotorcyclerespondsmoreslowly.Ittakeslongertospeedup,slowdownandturn.Heavierpassengersandlightermotorcyclestakelongertomaneuveratthesetimes.Toadjustforaddedpassengerweight:

• Operate at a somewhat slower speed, particularly on corners, curves orbumps.

• Begintoslowdownearlierthanusualwhenapproachingastop.• Allowagreater followingdistanceandkeepmoredistance fromvehicles

oneitherside.• Lookforlargergapswhenevercrossing,enteringormergingwithtraffic.

Ifpossible,warnpassengerswhenstarting,stoppingquickly,turningsharplyorridingoverabump.Otherwise,talkaslittleaspossiblewheninmotion.

LoAD AnD cArGo

Amotorcycleisnotprimarilydesignedtocarrycargo.However,smallloadscanbecarriedsafelywhenproperlypositionedandfastened.Checkthemotorcycleowner’smanualforinformationaboutcarryingcargo.

Keep the load low.Placetheloadnexttotheseatorplaceitinsaddlebags.Donotpileloadsagainstasissybarorotherback-seatframe.Thiswillchangethecenterofgravity,disturbingthebalanceofthemotorcycle.

Keep the load forward.Placetheloadoverorforwardoftherearaxle.Anythingmountedbehindtherearwheelcanaffecthowthemotorcycleturnsandbrakes.Itcanalsocausewobbling.


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distribute the load evenly.Whenusingsaddlebags,makecertaineachareequallyloaded.Anunevenloadcancausethemotorcycletopulltooneside.

Secure the load. Fastentheloadsecurelywithelasticcordsorropes.Alooseloadcancatchinthewheelorchain.Ifthishappens,therearwheelmaylockupandcausethemotorcycletoskid.

Check the load.Checktheloadeverysooftenwhenstopped.Makesureithasnotloosenedormoved.

lEaRnInG GROuP RIDInGThehighway isnotaplace tosocialize.Motorcyclists riding ingroupsdonothaveanyspecialrights.Whenridingwithothers,donotinterferewiththeflowoftraffic.

size

A large group interferes with traffic. It makes vehicles pass a long line ofmotorcyclistsoneatatime.Also,alargegrouptendstobeseparatedeasilybytrafficorredlights.Thoseleftbehindoftenrideunsafelytocatchup.Groupswithmorethanfourorfiveridersshoulddivideintotwoormoresmallergroups.

planning ahead. When leading, look ahead for changes. Give hand signalsearly,sothewordspreadsamongtheridersinplentyoftime.Startlanechangesearlyenoughtoallowallriderstocompletethechange.

putting beginners up front. Place inexperienced riders behind the leader,wheretheycanbewatchedbymoreexperiencedriders.

following those behind. Letthelastinlinesetthepace.Usemirrorstokeepaneyeonthepersonbehind.Slowdowntoletotherscatchup.Ifeveryonedoesthis,thegroupwillstaywiththerideronthetailend.

Knowing the route. Makesureeverybodyknowstheroute.Obeyanyspecialrulesonaparticularroute.

DistAnce

Itisimportanttokeepcloseranksandasafedistance.Aclosegrouptakesuplessspaceonthehighway,makingthegroupeasiertosee.Aclosegroupisalsolesslikelytobeseparatedbytrafficlights.However,itmustbedoneproperly.

do not pair up.Neveroperatedirectlyalongsideanothermotorcycle.Therewillbenoplacetoescapeoravoidanothervehicle.Talktoanotherrideronlywhenstopped.

Staggered formation. Keep close ranks, yet maintain adequate distancethrough a “staggered” formation. The leader rides to the left side of the lane,whilethesecondriderstaysalittlebehindandridestotherightsideofthelane.

Athirdriderwouldtaketheleftposition,anormaltwo-seconddistancebehindthesecondrider.Thisformationallowsthegrouptorideincloserankswithoutreducing following distance and without having riders drive along side oneanother.Staggeredformationcanbesafelyusedonanopenhighway.However,

asinglefileshouldberesumedoncurves,duringturns,whileenteringorleavingahighway,whenreturningtothenarrowroadwayorwhentoppingthecrestofahill.Whenridersinastaggeredformationwanttopass,theyshoulddoitoneatatime.Whenitissafetodoso,theleadridershouldpulloutandpass.Whentheleaderreturnstothelane,heorsheshouldtaketheleftlanepositionandopenagapforthenextrider.Assoonasthefirstriderissafelyby,thesecondridershouldmovetotheleftpositionandwatchforasafechancetopass.Afterpassing,thisridershouldreturntotherightlanepositionandopenupagapforthenextrider.


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RIDE SObER anD awakERidingamotorcycleismoredemandingthandrivingothermotorvehicles.Ridersmustbeingoodphysicalandmentalshapetoridesafely.Threethingsthatoftenkeepridersfrombeinginshapetoridesafelyarealcohol,drugsandfatigue.

ALcohoL

Drinking and riding is extremely dangerous. Nearly half of all motorcyclehighwaydeathsinvolvealcoholuse.Ridingamotorcyclerequiresahighdegreeofskilland judgment. Italsorequiresagoodsenseofbalance.Alcohol limitstheseskills.

Itisdangeroustorideafterdrinking.Alcoholaffectsvision.Seeingclearlyandjudgingdistancebecomesdifficult.Itishardenoughtorideamotorcyclesafelywithnormalvision.

Thedrinkingproblemis justasextensiveamongmotorcyclistsas it isamongautomobile drivers. However, motorcyclists are far more likely to be killed orseverely injured in a crash.About2,500motorcyclesare involved in crasheseachyearonNewJerseyroadways.Thesecrashesresultin60ormorefatalitiesandnearly2,000injurieseachintheGardenState.

Nooneisimmunetotheeffectsofalcohol.Alcoholmakeseveryonelessableto thinkclearlyandtoperformphysical tasksskillfully.Alcoholhasextremelyharmfuleffectsonmotorcycleoperatingskills.Theeffectsofalcoholbeginlongbeforeariderislegallyintoxicated.

riDe sAfe - riDe sober

drugs

Almostanydrugcanaffecttheskillsneededtorideamotorcyclesafely.Thisincludes prescription drugs, as well as illegal drugs. It even includes sucheverydaydrugsascoldtabletsorallergypills.Suchdrugscancauseweakness,dizzinessordrowsiness.Understandtheeffectsofdrugsbeforeriding.

Donottakeillegaldrugs.

Stopandwait if dizzinessorweakness fromprescriptionorover-the-counterdrugsoccurs.Donotrideuntilregaininganormalfeeling.Slowdownandkeepmore than the normal distance between other vehicles if it is necessary tocontinue.

fatigue

Ridingamotorcycleismuchmoretiringthanoperatinganothervehicle.Forroadtrips, tirednesssets inmorequicklywhen ridingamotorcycle.Theeffectsoffatigueonvehiclecontrolcanalsobemuchworse:

• Protection from the elements. Wind, cold and rain can make riders tirequickly.Dresswarmly.Awindshield isworth itscost,especiallyforridersthattravelfrequently.

• Limitdistancetraveled.Donotcovermorethanabout300milesaday.• Takefrequentrests.Stopandgetoffthecycle.Itisalsoagoodideatodrink

waterduringreststops.

CHECkInG THE MOTORCyClEPlenty of things on the highway can cause trouble for riders. A motorcycleshouldnotbeoneofthem.Threewaystobesureamotorcyclewillnotletitsriderdownare:

1. Havetherightequipment.2. Keepthebikeinsaferidingcondition.3. Avoidadd-onaccessoriesormodificationsthatmakeithardertohandle.

moDeL

Therightmotorcycleisincrediblyimportant.Beginnersmightwanttoconsiderasmallermotorcyclethatisnomorethan250ccuntilbecomingmoreexperiencedor until after driving several hundred miles. Make sure the motorcycle fits. Arider’sfeetshouldbeabletoreachthegroundwhilesitting.

Thereareafewitemsofequipmentthatarenecessaryforsafeoperation.NewJerseyrequiresthatalltheseitemsareingoodworkingorder:

• Headlightandtaillight.• Frontandrearbrakes.• Turnsignals.• Horn.• Atleastonerearviewmirror.

Thesearejustminimumrequirements.Tosurviveintraffic,haveamirroroneachsideofthehandlebars.It isalsoagoodideatohavereflectorsonthesideofthemotorcycle.

service

Motorcycles may need more frequent attention than other vehicles. Whensomethinggoeswrongwiththemotorcycle,itmaycauseacrash.


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There is only one way to spot problems before trouble starts: Inspect themotorcyclecarefullyandfixthingsrightaway.Thefirstchapterofthismanualdescribedchecksthatshouldbemadebeforeeveryride.Checkthesethingsatleastonceaweek:

tires. Checkthetreadforwear.Ifthewearisuneven,havethewheelsbalancedandthealignmentchecked.Manyblowoutsaredueto lowairpressure.Also,checkforcutsandscrapesthatcouldcauseablowout.

Wheels. Checkbothwheels formissingor loosespokes.Check the rimsforcracksordents.Liftthewheeloffthegroundandspinit.Watchitsmotionandlistenfornoise.Also,moveitfromsidetosidetocheckforlooseness.

Controls.Checkthecontrolsforsmoothoperation.Checkthecablesforkinksorbrokenstrands.Lubricatethecontrolmechanismsateachendofthecable.

Chains and sprockets. Oilthechain.Checkthesprocketsforwornteeth.

Shock absorbers.Doesthemotorcycle“bounce”severaltimesaftercrossingabump?Hearaclunk?Checkshockabsorbers,whichmayneedtobeadjustedorreplaced.Checktheshocksforoil/leaks.

fasteners. Checkforlooseormissingnuts,boltsorcotterpins.Keepingthemotorcyclecleanmakesiteasiertospotmissingparts.

Brakes. Adjust thebrakes so that they lock thewheelwhen fully applied. Ifthewheelwillnotlock,orifthereisascrapingsoundwhenstopping,havetheliningschecked.

aCCESSORIES anD MODIfICaTIOnSAsafemotorcyclecanbequickly turned intoamenacebyadding thewrongaccessoriesormakingchangesinthemotorcyclethatcanmakeitmuchhardertohandle.Hereareafewthingstoavoid:

• highway pegs mounted on the front of the motorcycle to allow the rider to lean back.Thesepegsdelaytheoperator’sabilitytoreachthefootbrakeinanemergency.

• Sissy Bars, a high bar or frame mounted on the back of the seat, can change the motorcycle’s center of gravity and affect its balance when loaded, while preventing the operator and passenger from getting off the motorcycle in a hurry.Extendedhandlebars,whichextendabovetheoperator’sshoulders,areillegalinNewJersey.

Appendix


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DrIVer sAFeTy

TRaffIC SIGnS, SIGnalS anD ROaD MaRkInGSTrafficsigns,signalsandroadmarkingsaresetuptocontroltheflowoftraffic,making streets and highways safer for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.Asafedriveralwayswatchesforandobeysall trafficsignals,signsandroadmarkings.Duringheavytrafficor inanemergency,apoliceofficermaydirecttraffic.Apoliceofficercanoverruletrafficsignals.Lawenforcementordersordirectionsmustalwaysbeobeyed.

Court penalties will be imposed for stealing or damaging airport, traffic orrailroad-crossingsignsorequipment.

trAffic siGnALsWhentrafficsignalsarehungvertically,theredlightisalwaysontop.Theyellowisinthecenter.Thegreenlightisthirdinline.Ifthereisagreenarrow,itisalwaysonthebottom.Whenthelightsarehorizontal,redisalwaysontheleft.

reD LiGhtAmotoristmuststopbeforetheintersectionorcrosswalkandremainstoppeduntilthelightchangestogreen.

yeLLow LiGhtA motorist should stop before entering the intersection orcrosswalk,unlesshis/hervehicleissoclosetotheintersectionthatitcannotbestoppedsafely.Ayellowarrowmeansthesignalischangingfromgreentoredandgivesthemotoristachancetostopsafely.

Green LiGhtAmotoristshouldproceed through the intersection.Yield topedestriansandvehiclesstillintheintersectionandwhenturningleftorright.Beforemakingaleftturn,yieldtoapproachingvehicles.

Green ArrowWhenshownaloneorincombinationwiththeredsignal,proceedonlyasshownbythearrow.Becautiousandyieldtopedestrians.

fLAshinG yeLLow LiGhtSlowdownandproceedwithcare.


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fLAshinG reD LiGhtStop.Yieldtotrafficandpedestrians.Goonlywhensafe.

unLit siGnALStopifasignaldoesnothaveanyofitsbulbsworkingandnooneisdirectingtraffic.Itisconsideredafour-waystopsign.Lookleftandright.Yieldtotrafficcomingfromtherightorleft.Becarefulandgoonlywhensafe.

orAnGe, steADy rAiseD-PALm symboLPedestriansmustnotleavethesidewalkorentertheroadwaywhenfacingthelight.Thosealreadyintheroadwayshouldquicklygotoasafespot.Pedestriansalreadywithinthecrosswalkwillhavetimetocrosstheintersectionbeforethesignalchanges.Thosewhohavenotyetleftthesidewalkorcurbshouldnotentertheroadway.

white, steADy PeDestriAn siLhouette/countDown PeDestriAn siGn with steADy PeDestriAn siLhouettePedestriansfacingthesignalmaycrosstheroadway in thedirectionof thesignal. New Jersey law requires turning motorists to yield to pedestrianscrossingonthissignalandtopedestriansinthecrosswalk.

Pedestrianpush-buttonsare locatedat certain traffic signals.A short timeafterthebuttonispushed,theflowoftrafficattheintersectionchangestoalongergreenforthesidestreet.

Trafficengineersusecolor,suchasanoptionalyellow-greenorastandardyellow, for the pedestrian crossing and bicycle warning signs which are ofutmost importance.ThesesignsalertNewJerseymotorists that theymustsharetheroadwithpedestriansandbicyclistsandyieldtothem.

TRaffIC SIGnSSignsaredividedintothreebasiccategories:

•Warning:Warnmotoristsofhazardsaheadthataredifficulttosee.

•guidance:Guidemotoriststoadestinationbyclearlyidentifyingtheroute.

•regulatory:Regulatetrafficspeedandmovement.

The signs are manufactured in different shapes and colors to convey aparticularmessage.Examplesof thevarioussign types, shapesandcolorsarefoundinthediagramonthenextpage.

1Whenthemaximumsafespeedaroundacurveorturnislowerthanthepostedspeedlimit,anadvisoryspeedsignisusedwiththeproperwarningsign.

wArninG siGnsWarningsignsareforroadconditionsthatneedcautionandforspecifichazardsthatmaybeencounteredduringcertain roadoperations.Someof thewarningsignsalertmotoriststoroadconditions,schoolcrossingsorcurvedroadways.Thesignsareyellowanddiamond-shapedwithablacksymbolorwordmessage.

roAD worK siGnsRoadworksignsalertmotoriststoavarietyoftemporaryroadwayconditions.Itisimportanttolookfor:

• Orange,diamond-shapedsignsthatwarnthemotoristoflaneclosings,laneshifts,flaggers,unevenpavementanddetours.Roadworkmaytemporarilycloselanesordivertthem,changingtrafficpatterns

• Reducedspeedlimitsignsthatarepostedalongsideorangeworkzonesigns.InNewJersey,alltrafficfinesaredoubledinworkzones.

Color ShApe # of SideS meSSAge

White Verticalrectangle 4Regulation(suchasspeedsigns)1

Blue Rectangle,square 4Motoristsservicesandinformation

Brown Rectangle 4Publicrecreationandscenicguidance

Green Rectangle 4 Directionguidance

Orange Diamond 4Constructionandmaintenancewarning

Red Octagon 8 STOPsignsonly

Red Triangle 3 YIELDsigns

Yellow Pennant 3 No-passingwarningsigns

Yellow Pentagon 5 Schoolsigns

Yellow Round Railroadwarningsigns

Yellow Diamond 4 Roadwayhazardsigns


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AMotoristshouldreacttoroadworksignsby:• Controllingthedistancebetweenhis/hervehicleandtheoneinfront,as

wellashis/herreactiontime.Alwaysreadthesigns,followdirectionsandpreparetoslowdownorstop

• Stayingalerttothemovingconstructionmachineryintheworkzone.Withpatience,amotoristwillcontributetotheoverallsafetyofmotoristsandworkersintheworkzone

• Watchingforworkersontheroad,whoriskinjury,possiblydeath.Flaggersmaystopandreleasetrafficthroughtheworkzone.Notethatflaggershavethesameauthorityasaregulatorysign,soamotoristmaybecitedifhe/shedisobeystheirdirections.

GuiDAnce siGnsGuidancesignsidentifydestinationsandroutesformotorists;someexamplesareshownonpages174-176.

motorist Service SignsMotoristservicesignshavewhitelettersorsymbolsonabluebackgroundandprovide information about motorist services. Some examples are shown onpages174and175.

reGuLAtory siGnsRegulatorysignsaregenerallyrectangular,withthelongerverticaldimension,andhaveblackwordingandbordersonawhitebackground.Someimportantregulatorysignstoknoware:

• Stop:Octagonalsignwithwhitewordingandborderonredbackground

• Yield:Whiteinvertedtrianglewithredwordingandborderwithawhiteborderband

• do not enter:Whitesquarewitharedcirclethathasawhitebandhorizontallyacrossthecenterofthecircleandthewords “DONOTENTER”inwhitelettersontheupperandlowerpartsofthecircle

TwonationalsignsthatindicatewherecertaininterstatetruckscanorcannottravelarenowbeingusedinNewJersey:

• green:Markstheroutesandrampswheretrucksarepermitted;alsomarksthetravelroutetoservicesandterminals

• red:Markstheroutesandrampswheretrucksareprohibited;alsomarkstheendofdesignatedroutes

roAD mArKinGsRoadmarkingshavethesameforceoflawassignsortrafficsignals.

• Yellow center lines:Separatetrafficflowgoinginoppositedirections

• White lines:Separatetrafficgoingthesamewaywhenthereismore thanonelane;showedgesofroads

• dashed lines:Onamotorist’ssideofthecenterlineoftheroadmean thatpassingispermittedwhensafe

• Solid line:Onamotorist’ssideofthecenterlinemeansdonotpass

• road arrows:Whenusedwithothersigns,showthecorrectdirectionamotoristmustmakeinthatparticularlane

• White dashed lines:Separatetrafficlanesonmulti-lanehighways

• Yellow solid lines:Prohibitpassing.Donotcrossthesolidyellowlinetopass.Stayinthelane.Keeptotherightwhendrivingslowly

• Yellow solid and dashed lines:Controlpassing.Ifthesolidyellowlineisonthemotorist’ssideoftheroad,donotpass.Passonlyifthedashedlineisonthemotorist’ssideoftheroad.Apassmustbecompletedbeforetheyellowdashedlinesbecomesolid

• edge lines: Separate the shoulder from the travel lane and show the edgesofhighways;Yellow edge linesseparatetheshoulderfromthe travellaneandshowtheedgeofthehighway

• White crosswalks:Indicatepedestriancrossingareas.Pedestriansshouldusetheseareaswhencrossingtheroad.Atintersectionswherestoplinesaremissingstopbeforethecrosswalkwhenrequiredtostopbytrafficsignsorsignalsorforpedestrians

• White stop lines:Showwheretostopatstopsignsortrafficsignals

• White special markings:Showspecialconditions,suchasSTOPAHEAD, SCHOOL and R X R, as a motorist alert. At some railroadcrossings, theremaybeacrossbuck,flashing lightsand/orgate loweredacrosstheroadasatrainapproaches.Thepavementmarkings,signsandcrossbucksarepassivewarnings;theflashinglightsandloweredgatesareactivewarnings.Amotoristmustalwaysyieldtotrains

• White diamonds:Indicatehighoccupancyvehicle(HOV)lanesreservedforaparticularvehicletypeorvehiclescarryingmultipleriders,asidentifiedbyposted regulatorysigns.Suchsignswillalso indicatehours thatHOVlanesareinoperation.HOVlanesmayalsobemarkedwithwhitediamondspaintedonthepavementofthelane


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sPeciAL wArninG siGnsThese signs alert motorists to slow-moving vehicles. A fluorescent andreflectiveorangetriangularsignindicatesslow-movingvehicles,suchasfarmandconstructionequipmentoperatingonpublichighways.Theoperatorsmustobeyalltrafficrulesandplaceaslow-movingvehiclesignonthebackoftheirvehiclestowarnapproachingmotorists.

rumbLe striPsTransverse and longitudinal rumble strips are small indentations or narrow,raisedstripsonthehighwayorshoulderthatareputtheretoalertthemotoristthereisadecisionpointahead(suchasafour-wayintersectionaftermilesofuninterruptedtravel).Asthestripsvibratethesteeringwheelandmakeanoise,they will wake the motorist who may have dozed off or caution the motoristabout the danger ahead. Rumble strips will not damage a vehicle. They aremeant to get a motorist to drive slowly. They are almost always used with acautionarysign.

sPeeD humPs/sPeeD bumPsOthertypesofspeedcontroldevicesincludespeedhumpsandspeedbumps.Aspeedhumpisalowridgethatrunsacrossastreetandthatisdesignedtoslowdowncars.Aspeedhumpisalonger,flatterversionofaspeedbump,whichismoreraised.

rounDAboutsAroundaboutisaone-way,circularintersectioninwhichtrafficflowsaroundacenterisland.Roundaboutsaredesignedtomeettheneedsofallroadusers–drivers,pedestrians,pedestrianswithdisabilities,andbicyclists.Aroundabouteliminatessomeoftheconflictingtraffic,suchasleftturns,whichcausecrashesat traditional intersections. Because roundabout traffic enters or exits onlythroughrightturns,theoccurrenceofseverecrashesissubstantiallyreduced.

Sharp Turn Ahead

Winding Road Merge Hill Lane Reduction Ahead

Cross Road Railroad School Slippery When Wet

Hospital Handicapped Yield Ahead Signal Ahead

Workers Flagman Ahead Detour Road Closed

Stop Left Turn Only No Trucks Multiple Turning Lanes

Do Not Enter No U-Turns No Parking Any Time Do Not Pass

Divided Highway Cattle Crossing


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Sharp Turn Ahead

Winding Road Merge Hill Lane Reduction Ahead

Cross Road Railroad School Slippery When Wet

Hospital Handicapped Yield Ahead Signal Ahead

Workers Flagman Ahead Detour Road Closed

Stop Left Turn Only No Trucks Multiple Turning Lanes

Do Not Enter No U-Turns No Parking Any Time Do Not Pass

Divided Highway Cattle Crossing

Advisory Ramp Speed Side Road No Passing Zone Stop Sign Ahead

Two-Lane Traffic Road Narrows Road Closed Reserved Parking

U.S. Route Marker State Route Marker Rest Area Stop Here on Red

County Route Marker Exit Marker Mile Marker No Standing AnyTime

No Pedestrians No Turns Left Turn Only Interstate

Left or StraightOnly

Bus/Car Pool Lane One Way Keep Right

Wrong Way Yield No Right Turn

Advisory Ramp Speed Side Road No Passing Zone Stop Sign Ahead

Two-Lane Traffic Road Narrows Road Closed Reserved Parking

U.S. Route Marker State Route Marker Rest Area Stop Here on Red

County Route Marker Exit Marker Mile Marker No Standing AnyTime

No Pedestrians No Turns Left Turn Only Interstate

Left or StraightOnly

Bus/Car Pool Lane One Way Keep Right

Wrong Way Yield No Right Turn


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MVC

Locations


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MVC faCIlITIESWith at least one location in each of New Jersey’s 21 counties, the MVCprovides numerous customer services. Driver testing and licensing, vehicletitling and registration, driver conferences, restoration of driving privilegesandsurchargefeepaymentsareofferedatvariedsitesthroughoutthestate.Please refer to the following pages and/or www.njmvc.gov for specificsiteinformation.

InSPECTIOn faCIlITIESThereareseveraltypesofinspectionfacilitiesavailabletoNewJerseymotorists.

Central inspection facilities provide services in various locations. Thesefacilities inspect all types of standard vehicles. Some central inspectionfacilities require an appointment. See www.njinspections.com for moreinformation.

private inspection facilities are in more than 1,100 locations statewide,includingatgasstationsandbodyrepairshops.Thesefacilitieswillperformstandardvehicle inspections fora fee.Foracomplete listofMVC-approvedPrivateinspectionfacilities,visitwww.njinspections.com.

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MVC COnTaCT InfORMaTIOnby Phone:general customer information (888) 486-3339toll-freeinNewJersey(609)292-6500outofstate(609)292-5120TTY

CustomerservicerepresentativesareavailableMondaythroughFriday,8:30a.m.to4:30p.m.Detailedrecordedinformationisavailableafter-hours,sevendaysaweek,includingholidays.

license suspensions and restorations (609)292-7500

Vehicle inspection information (888)NJMOTOR(888-656-6867)toll-freeinNewJersey(609)895-6886outofstate

www.njinspections.com

CustomerservicerepresentativesareavailableMondaythroughThursday,8:30a.m.to5p.m.,Friday8a.m.to4:30p.m.,andSaturday8a.m.tonoon.

by mAiL:to return passenger registration renewal applications: MotorVehicleCommissionP.O.Box009Trenton,NJ08666-0009

to return commercial registration renewal applications:MotorVehicleCommissionP.O.Box008Trenton,NJ08666-0008


223

mvc

inFO

rmAt

iOn

s &

hO

urs

to report changes or corrections to registrations and titles:

motor Vehicle Commission DatabaseCorrectionUnitP.O.Box141Trenton,NJ08666-0141

to pay a surcharge bill: NJ-AISCP.O.Box4850Trenton,NJ08650-4850

to return license plates: MotorVehicleCommissionP.O.Box403Trenton,NJ08666-0403

for questions relating to suspensions, violations and restorations:MotorVehicleCommissionP.O.Box134Trenton,NJ08666-0403

for all other mVC inquiries: MotorVehicleCommissionP.O.Box403Trenton,NJ08666-0403

onLine:www.njmvc.gov

www.njmvc.gov

R0510