New Jersey Driving and Traffic Laws

By Hayden Krueger

While most traffic laws are consistent across the country, states also have the ability to determine their own rules of the road. Whether you are moving to a different state or simply passing through, it is important to know what the traffic laws are in each state you spend time in. New Jersey has a few unique regulations that their drivers must abide by. This article will provide you with the basics about driving laws in New Jersey so you know what to expect when you head to the Garden State.

Cell Phone Use

The state of New Jersey is one of the few that has a statewide ban on handheld cell phones. This means that drivers are not allowed to use a handheld cell phone while driving for either talking or texting. The state also has a ban on cell phone use for school bus drivers and novice drivers, which is also covered under the statewide ban. While many states ban cell phone use for these drivers, only five states mandate a statewide ban across the board. It is important to know this law before driving in New Jersey, or you might receive a moving violation for making a call while you are behind the wheel.

Drunk Driving

While New Jersey has some of the stiffest laws regarding cell phones, their punishment for drunk driving is less severe than other states. First offenses generally receive a hefty fine and a suspension of the driver’s license for up to three months. This is considerably less than the one-year suspension that other states enforce for first time offenders. However, you could also face jail time and you may be required to spend some time in an intoxicated driver resource center. A second offense could suspend your driver’s license for up to one year, include a large fine and possible jail time.

Insurance Requirements

New Jersey has a number of insurance requirements for their drivers. Coverage must include a minimum amount of bodily injury liability and property damage liability that protects those that are injured or property that is damaged by your vehicle. The state also requires drivers to carry coverage for uninsured motorists that include both personal injury and property damage. This protects drivers in the event they are involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist. Finally, New Jersey mandates that all drivers purchase a minimum amount of personal injury protection, or PIP. These requirements are much greater than other states and may account for New Jersey’s higher than average insurance premiums.

Knowing the driving laws governing an individual state makes it safer to get around on the streets of the area. New Jersey includes some rather unique rules of the road that drivers need to be aware of and adhere to without fail.