There are many good reasons to consider moving to nearby New Jersey. After all, the state offers a varied landscape – from sandy beaches to lush forests – and it is brimming with bustling cities that are teeming with vibrant culture, phenomenal food, a robust arts scene, thriving industries, and excellent education facilities. But before you move to New Jersey, you should familiarize yourself with the state’s vehicle laws, which can be found in Title 39 of the NJ statutes. The last thing you want to do is to break the law when driving simply because you are not aware of the rules. Here are just seven vital New Jersey vehicle laws you need to know about.
1.All Front-Seat Occupants Must Wear Seatbelts
New Jersey has a comprehensive seatbelt law under Title 39. Regardless of age, all front-seat occupants of a passenger vehicle must wear their seatbelts at all times. Not buckling up is punishable with fines up to $40, so do not overlook the simple matter of wearing a seatbelt. Plus, more important than a potential fine is the fact that seat belts help to keep you and your passengers safe when on the road – should you be involved in an accident.
2.It Is Illegal to Use Your Cell Phone While Driving
The second thing to note is the state’s strict stance on using cell phones while driving. It is illegal under Title 39 to use a handheld device when operating a vehicle, which includes talking, texting, or browsing through social media platforms. If you are caught doing this activity, your wallet can suffer a blow between $200 and $800 per offense. Plus, once again, your main motive for not using your phone when driving should be to ensure your safety – as distracted driving can lead to a higher accident risk.
3.You Must Follow Right-of-Way Rules
Navigating through New Jersey’s busy streets requires thorough knowledge of its right-of-way rules. These rules are fundamental as they decide who has priority in various road situations.For example, drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or when making a turn at an intersection where pedestrians are waiting to cross.
4.Driving Under the Influence Is a Serious Offense
In New Jersey, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense. As per Title 39, the legal limit for Blood Alcohol Concentration is 0.08%. Remember, penalties for this violation can be severe – a fine, license suspension, installation of ignition interlock devices on your vehicle, and even jail time could all be potential consequences.
5.You Must Abide by Child Car Seat Regulations
If you are moving to New Jersey with young children, you need to know that the state has stringent laws requiring the use of approved child restraint systems in vehicles. Infants up to two years old and weighing less than 30 pounds should be secured in a rear-facing car seat with a five-point harness until they surpass those limits.
6.You Must Follow the State’s Vehicle Inspection Regulations
New Jersey also enforces rigorous vehicle inspection regulations to ensure road safety and reduce harmful emissions. Most vehicles need to go through an examination every two years at a licensed inspection station. However, keep in mind that newly purchased used cars must be inspected within 14 days following the transaction date.
7.Uninsured Drivers Can Face Fines
Finally, driving without insurance is not just risky. It is also illegal in New Jersey. Penalties for this offense include fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, community service terms, and registration suspension for one year from the date of conviction.
More New Jersey Motor Vehicle Laws to Know About
The above laws are some of the most vital ones to know about. But you can take a look at this post to learn about more New Jersey motor vehicle laws. You can then be fully prepared for your move to the state and start looking for an apartment to rent. As you plan your move to New Jersey, you can explore the state with the flexibility of a car rental in New Jersey from Rental24h.com for convenient and reliable services
Recapping
Let’s do a quick recap of the above seven vital New Jersey vehicle laws. They are:
All Front-Seat Occupants Must Wear Seatbelts.
It Is Illegal to Use Your Cell Phone While Driving.
You Must Follow Right-of-Way Rules.
Driving Under the Influence Is a Serious Offense.
You Must Abide by Child Car Seat Regulations.
You Must Follow the State’s Vehicle Inspection Regulations.
