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Safety Laws in New Jersey

Headlights
Vehicles
Headlights must be turned on:
- From 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.
- In inclement weather, when visibility reduces to 500 feet or less.
- Whenever your windshield wipers are in use.
Motorcycles
Modulating headlights are permitted during the daytime.
Bicycles
When riding at night, your bicycle must have:
- A front white light visible from at least 500 feet.
- A red rear light visible from at least 500 feet.
Helmets
Motorcycles
Helmets are required for all riders.
Bicycles
Helmets are required for all riders 16 and younger.
Cell Phones and Texting
- The use of hand-held cell phones is prohibited while driving.
- School bus drivers can use cell phones only during emergencies.
- Any drivers younger than 21 who hold a graduated license permit or a provisional license are prohibited from using a hands-free cell phone.
- Text messaging while driving is illegal.
Child Car Seat Laws
- Kids eight and younger and/or weighing less than 80 pounds must ride in a car seat or booster.
- Kids younger than eight must ride in the rear seat, if, of course, your vehicle has a rear seat.
If you're in the market for one, you can shop online for a child car seat at any time. When ordering, be sure the car seat matches your child's height, weight and age.
Seat Belts
- Kids between eight and 18 must wear seat belts regardless of weight.
- All drivers 18 and older must wear a seat belt while riding in the front seat.
Reporting Drunk or Dangerous Drivers
Call *77 (New Jersey's Aggressive Driver System) if you suspect a driver of being drunk or a road threat. Provide the driver's license plate number, vehicle make and model, location, and travel direction. Do not try to stop the vehicle on your own.
Reporting Unattended Kids in Vehicles
Dial 911 if you suspect an unattended child left in a vehicle is in danger from excessive heat or cold. Remain with the vehicle, if possible, until authorities arrive.
Reporting Unattended Pets in Vehicles
Call the local police department or animal control unit if you feel an unattended pet inside a vehicle is at risk.
Other Topics in This Section
- Traffic Alerts
- 511 Traffic Systems
- Recalls
- Tire Recalls
- How Emotions Affect Driving
- Driving in Hazardous Conditions
- Teen Drivers: A Beginner's Guide
- Seniors: When To Turn Over The Car Keys
- Packing Your First-Aid Kit
- Seven Senior Safety Suggestions
- Wildlife on the Road
- When to Call Wildlife Rescue
- Taking A Mature Driver Course
- Medications & Driving
- Night Driving
- Hallucinations on the Road
- How To Drive Distraction Free
- Treating Motion Sickness
- Road Rage: How To Deal With It
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