Overview

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has made pedestrian safety a top priority. With New Jersey being the most densely populated state in the country, pedestrians and motorists need to exercise caution and courtesy when sharing New Jersey roadways.

NJDOT has implemented a Complete Streets policy that enables safe access and mobility of pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users of all ages and abilities. Accomplished through the planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of new and retrofit transportation facilities, Complete Streets works within public rights of way that are federally or state funded, and include projects processed or administered through the NJDOT's Capital Program. NJDOT encourages regional and local jurisdictions to adopt similar policies.

Pedestrians should be aware of general safety tips; how to use pedestrian traffic signals and crosswalks and New Jersey rules governing the responsibilities of pedestrians and drivers. The new Stop and Stay Stopped law states that motorists who fail to stop for pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks risk a $200 fine and additional penalties. Pedestrians who fail to yield for vehicles at any point on the roadway other than within a crosswalk marked or unmarked can also be fined.

More information is available on pedestrian safety statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.