CHAPTER 8 SHARING THE ROAD WITH OTHERS

PEOPLE  It is important for a motorist to remember that he/she is not the only one using the roadways.  From people to animals to other types of vehicles, it is a motorist's responsibility to know how to safely the road with others

PEDESTRIANS  Approximately 150 pedestrians have been killed annually in traffic related crashes on New Jersey roadways  Many of the measures designed to make roads safer for motorists, such as large medians and wide shoulders, make the roads more treacherous for pedestrians.  Vehicle-pedestrian collisions have a 5% fatality rate if the car is going 20 MPH, but the rate jumps to 85% at 40 MPH.

 Pedestrian activity is at its greatest in densely developed areas, such as cities and town centers, but is also significant in neighborhoods and along suburban roadways.  In most cases, pedestrians have the right of way at all intersections  There is a crosswalk at every intersection; even it is not painted. -This is known as an “unmarked crosswalk.”  Pedestrians must obey signals and must use crosswalks. -Both carry a $54 fine for failure to observe the law

 A motorist must stop for a pedestrian crossing the roadway -Violation of this law can face up to $200 and possible community service  If a pedestrian suffers serious bodily injury as a result of a motor violation, the motorist is subject to $100-$500 fine, up to 25 days in jail, and a driving privilege suspension for up to 6 months. 

 BE CAUSTIOUS TO:  Hazard Areas  School Zones  Bus Stops  Playgrounds  Parks  Schools  Residential Areas  Roadways with on-street parking  Nighttime Driving  Intersections  Pedestrians and joggers should always face oncoming traffic and use sidewalks when available.

MATURE DRIVERS  Normal physical changes are part of the aging process. Mature drivers may experience declines in vision, hearing, reaction time and flexibility  Choose best time and road  Choose a well-lit roadway  Stay alert  Keep information on public transportation  Share driving time  Keep drivers license current  Enroll in defensive-driving course  Get vision checked annually  Ask doctor about medications  Accept judgment of family and friends about driving skills

VISUALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS  Vehicles must give their right-of-way when any of the following crosses in a highway or intersection:  Blind persons with white or metallic cane  Blind persons accompanied by guide dog

MOTORCYCLES  Always be alert! Keep several key items in mind when sharing the road:  Be aware of slippery, sloped or uneven surfaces  Check blind spots twice before changing lanes or making turns  Watch at intersections and when making left turns  Always signal at intersections  Anticipate a rider’s maneuver  Always leave plenty of room between you and the motorcyclist  Never follow too closely (motorcycles brake in shorter time and distances)  A motorist's failure to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic is the most common cause of motorcycle collisions.

TRUCKS, TRACTOR-TRAILERS AND BUSES  Always use caution when driving alongside trucks.  When passing a large truck or bus, it is important to remember that there are several no-zones in which the motorist cannot see other vehicles.  During bad weather a truck can take as much as 25% longer to stop.

NO-ZONE PRINCIPLE  Do not move so close to a truck that the drivers ability to stop or maneuver effectively is restricted.  If the motorist of a large truck or bus cannot see another motorist’s vehicle in the rearview or side-view mirrors, the vehicle is in a no-zone  Front, Rear, Side, Head 

YIELDING TO SCHOOL AND COMMERCIAL BUSES  All non-emergency vehicles must yield to buses re-entering traffic after dropping off or picking up passengers.  Violating this law can result in $50-$200 fine and up to 15 days in jail.

MOPEDS  May not exceed 25 MPH and  Must follow all traffic signs and signals  Must drive on the right side of the road with the flow of traffic  Motorists should always be alert!

BIKES, SKATEBOARDS, AND INLINE SKATES  Motorists should leave plenty of room for these individuals  Bikes ridden in the dark must have front and rear lights and a rear reflector  When turning, motorists should be aware of these individuals.

MOTORIZED SCOOTERS  Considered a miniature motor vehicle.  Can be driven on public road or sidewalk  Be alert! Motorized scooters are very hard to see.  Motorized scooters must be insured and registered with the municipality

INDIVIDUALS WITH A MOBILITY-RELATED DISABILITY  State law allows these individuals to operate certain motorized scooters on public streets up to 35 MPH.  The motorized scooter may only have a maximum speed capability of 15 MPH.

SNOWMOBILES AND ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES  It is illegal for these types of vehicles to ride on public roadways, but they are permitted to cross certain roadways when safety permits.  Operators of snowmobiles and ATVs must maintain a proof of insurance and display registration at all times.

ANIMALS  Animals often dart onto roads or streets  Trying to avoid them often causes collisions.  The best defense is to watch for animals on both sides of the road ahead and be prepared for unexpected movement.

HORSEBACK RIDERS  Horse-drawn vehicles and horseback riders have the same rights and responsibilities as do motor vehicles when using public roadways.  Approach or pass a horse or horse-drawn vehicle with care at a maximum speed of 25 MPH