When we talk about distracted driving, we’re not just tossing around a buzzword; we’re spotlighting a lethal threat that’s all too common on our streets today. Here in New Jersey, taking your eyes off the road for just a heartbeat can wreak havoc—not just for the person behind the wheel but for everyone sharing the road: pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. Let’s dive deep into why distracted driving demands our full attention and serious action.

The Stark Reality of Distracted Driving

Our vehicles have transformed into mobile command centers where life and technology collide—phones buzzing, GPS navigating, and playlists streaming. But amidst this connectivity, there’s a perilous disconnect when these distractions lead us away from the fundamental task of driving.

Phones and Texting

Here’s a hard fact—glancing at your phone for just five seconds while cruising at 55 mph means you’ve traveled nearly the length of a football field, including both end zones, essentially blindfolded. That’s over 400 feet where anything can happen, and you wouldn’t see it coming.

In-Car Tech Gadgets

Our cars are smarter, but even the slickest touch screens and voice controls can pull our focus from where it matters most—the road ahead.

Chatty Passengers

Engaging in deep conversations or turning to address passengers can split your concentration, which might lead to disastrous outcomes.

The Human Toll

Numbers on a page don’t capture the sheer devastation of distracted driving. They don’t reflect the pain of families torn apart or the dreams dashed in an instant. Every pedestrian accident, every cyclist injured, every car wrecked tells a story of a moment’s distraction that changed lives forever.

Pedestrians and Cyclists

These folks are incredibly vulnerable because, for them, the road’s shoulder or a thin strip of bike lane is their only protection. When drivers aren’t 100% present, these narrow margins for safety can lead to catastrophic injuries or worse.

Other Drivers

It’s not just about individual safety; every distracted moment you spend behind the wheel is a risk you pose to everyone on the road. A simple glance away can cascade into multi-vehicle collisions with dire consequences.

Legal Repercussions in New Jersey

New Jersey takes a strict stance on distracted driving, especially regarding the use of handheld devices while driving:

Fines and Points

Getting caught texting or calling with a handheld device can slap you with fines from $200 to $400 for just the first offense. If you don’t learn your lesson and it happens again, those fines—and the stakes—only get higher. And by the third offense? You’re looking at up to $800 in fines, a possible 90-day license suspension, and the addition of three points on your driving record.

Liability Consequences

Beyond the immediate legal consequences like fines and points, distracted driving can lead to severe liability issues. If your actions cause an accident, you could be faced with lawsuits for significant damages, especially if someone is injured or killed. The human costs—lost lives, grieving families, and injured survivors—underscore the devastating impact of distracted driving. These are not just abstract risks; they represent profound personal tragedies that could haunt you for a lifetime.

Making a Change

So, what’s to be done? How do we curb this epidemic of distracted driving that’s claiming lives and livelihoods?

• Lead by Example. Make it a point to put your phone away and keep your focus fixed firmly on the road. Every trip, every time.
• Educate and Advocate. Talk about the dangers, share the grim statistics, and support initiatives that aim to make our roads safer.
• Policy and Enforcement. Support local and state efforts to strengthen laws and their enforcement against distracted driving. It’s about making our roads safe for all.

Wrapping Up

Driving distracted isn’t just risky—it’s potentially deadly. Let’s not mince words here: when you’re driving, every second counts, every glance matters. Let’s commit to keeping our eyes on the road and our hands on the wheel. Our lives, and the lives of our neighbors and loved ones, depend on it. Stay safe, stay focused, and let’s make New Jersey’s roads a model of safety and responsibility.

If you or a loved one has suffered from distracted driving in New Jersey, the experienced attorneys at Shebell & Shebell, LLC can help. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Together, let’s work towards safer roads and a brighter future for all.

In the crowded streets of New Jersey, where every inch of road is a battleground for space between pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, we’ve finally seen a beacon of hope. The Safe Passing Law, NJSA 39:4-92.4, effective since March 1, 2022, isn’t just another piece of legislation—it’s a lifesaver, a promise for a safer tomorrow for every kid on a bike and every pedestrian stepping onto the street.

The Essence of the Law: Respect and Protection

This isn’t just about rules; it’s about respect. New Jersey’s Safe Passing Law demands more than just careful driving—it requires a commitment, a promise from every motorist to safeguard those who are most at risk. Here’s what you need to know:

Make the Switch

If you see a cyclist or a pedestrian and the road allows, switch lanes. It’s more than courtesy; it’s giving them their rightful space.

Four Feet for Safety

Never buzz by closer than four feet. That distance might be the difference between a safe ride home and a trip to the ER.

Slow Down, It Saves Lives

If you can’t switch lanes, ease off that accelerator. Drop down to 25 mph, or even lower if the signs say so. Pass only when you can guarantee everyone’s safety.

The Law in Plain Speak: NJSA 39:4-92.4

Let’s lay it down straight—NJSA 39:4-92.4 isn’t just legalese. It protects the unprotected. If someone gets hurt because you violated this law, you’re not just looking at a slap on the wrist. It’s serious: a $500 fine and two points on your license. This law means business.

Why This Matters: Health, Happiness, and Safety

Think about it—cycling isn’t just good for the environment; it’s great for the heart, and not just the biological one, but our communal heart, our neighborhoods. This law encourages families to dust off those bikes in the garage, secure in the knowledge that the law is looking out for them. It’s about building a community where safety on the road isn’t a luxury—it’s a given.

The Cost of Carelessness

Don’t forget—the stakes are high. A moment of impatience can cost you a $100 slap on the wrist for a non-injurious violation, or, if your carelessness leads to someone getting hurt, a $500 fine and two points off your license. These penalties are here to remind us: we share the road, we share the responsibility.

Your Questions, Answered

Q: What does sharing the road really mean?

A: It means treating every road user with dignity and care, as if they were your own family.

Q: How do I know I’m doing it right?

A: If everyone goes home safe, you’re doing it right.

In Closing: Our Shared Road Ahead

New Jersey’s Safe Passing Law isn’t just another rule. It’s a statement—a statement that says we value life and respect each other’s right to come home safe. It’s a call to all of us to slow down, look around, and make sure we’re part of the solution, not the problem.

Let’s not just drive—let’s drive with heart, with an eye on the future. Let’s make sure that everyone, from the little guy on his first two-wheeler to the grandma crossing the street, feels safe on our roads. Because in the end, how we share the road says everything about who we are as human beings.

Unlike motorists in enclosed vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users lack the protective barrier of a vehicle structure to absorb the impact in case of a collision. They face direct exposure to vehicles, road surfaces, and various hazards, increasing their vulnerability to severe injuries or even fatalities in accidents. To address this critical safety concern, New Jersey has implemented the Safe Passing Law, which specifically aims to protect “vulnerable road users,” including bicyclists, pedestrians, scooter riders, and individuals using wheelchairs.

According to the NHTSA, there were more than 7,000 pedestrian deaths across the United States in 2021. Additionally, there’s a yearly average of 800 bicyclist deaths across the nation. The Safe Passing Law responds to the risks these individuals face from unsafe passing by motorists. It aims to reduce near misses, injuries, and fatalities.

Why is the NJ Safe Passing Law so important?

The law, also called “Oscar’s Law,” honors Oscar, an individual reliant on his electric bicycle for transportation, who tragically died in a collision with a tractor-trailer. New Jersey experienced its highest number of bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities in 30 years in 2021. This number of fatalities highlights the urgency of enhanced road safety measures.

Under the Safe Passing Law, drivers must adhere to existing no-passing and no-speeding regulations and shift to another lane when necessary. Therefore, passing is not mandatory when the center lines are solid. If a four-foot distance isn’t possible, drivers must slow to 25mph and be ready to stop, ensuring safe passage without endangering road sharers. On single-lane roads, drivers are required to leave a four-foot safety zone while passing.

What are the rights of vulnerable road users?

Bicyclists are permitted to occupy the entire lane and may legally ride two abreast, keeping as far right as possible. Pedestrians, in the absence of sidewalks, may walk on the road, facing traffic.

Some question the rights of bicyclists to use roads, citing their non-contribution to road funding. However, road infrastructure is primarily financed through sales and income taxes, to which everyone contributes. That’s regardless of car ownership or usage.

Many bicyclists own cars. However, they often choose biking for shorter trips, seeking a more sustainable travel method, or for the health benefits of increased physical activity. Fewer cars on the road mean reduced traffic and cleaner air. For some, biking or walking is a necessity due to financial constraints, physical ability, or age.

How motorists should respect the rights of pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users

Respecting the rights of pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users is a fundamental aspect of road safety. Motorists can contribute to this by adopting various practices that prioritize the well-being and security of vulnerable road users:

• Understand and Follow Traffic Laws: Motorists should familiarize themselves with and adhere to traffic laws and regulations. This includes being aware of right-of-way rules, adhering to speed limits in areas frequently used by pedestrians and cyclists, and respecting specific regulations concerning bike lanes and crosswalks.
• Maintain a Safe Passing Distance: When overtaking bicyclists, it’s crucial for drivers to leave a safe and reasonable distance between their vehicle and the cyclist. This buffer zone provides the necessary space for cyclists to maneuver safely if needed.
• Yield to Pedestrians: Drivers should always prioritize the safety of pedestrians. Even if a pedestrian is crossing at a location that may not be an official crosswalk, motorists should reduce their speed or come to a complete stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely.
• Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions: Being attentive while driving is essential. Drivers should refrain from using mobile phones, texting, eating, or engaging in any activity that diverts their attention away from the road. A focused driver is better equipped to respond to unexpected situations involving pedestrians and cyclists.
• Check for Blind Spots: Before executing turns or lane changes, drivers must diligently check their blind spots for the presence of bicyclists and pedestrians. This precautionary measure ensures that no vulnerable road user is inadvertently overlooked.
• Signal Intentions: Signaling turns and lane changes well in advance is essential. Proper use of turn signals communicates drivers’ intentions to pedestrians and bicyclists, allowing them to anticipate the vehicle’s movements and act accordingly.
• Exercise Patience: Motorists should recognize that pedestrians and cyclists may have varying speeds and abilities. Demonstrating patience and allowing them adequate time and space ensures a safer road environment for everyone.
• Respect Bike Lanes: Bike lanes are designated spaces for the safe passage of bicyclists. Drivers should refrain from entering or parking in these lanes, as it poses a hazard to cyclists. Respecting bike lanes enhances overall road safety.
• Avoid Dooring: Motorists should be cautious when parked alongside a road with a designated bike lane or when exiting a parked vehicle. Before opening car doors, drivers should check for approaching bicyclists to prevent “dooring” incidents. This practice ensures that cyclists have a clear and safe passage, reducing the risk of accidents caused by suddenly opened car doors.

Know your rights if you were hit by a car in New Jersey

While the Safe Passing Law helps protect vulnerable road users, accidents will still occur. If you or a loved one sustained an injury after getting hit by a car in New Jersey, know your rights. Speak to an experienced accident attorney at Shebell & Shebell, LLC. We’ll investigate your pedestrian or bicycle accident and gather evidence to help you build a strong claim.

We know how to take on insurance companies and fight to maximize compensation for our clients. If you have any questions regarding your claim, we would be glad to answer them. Contact us online or call our Shrewsbury law office for a free consultation.

The experience of driving varies from state to state. Some provide safer, more straightforward, and less stressful streets than others. Then there’s New Jersey. According to a new survey of the best and worst states to drive in, New Jersey is the worst state in the U.S. for drivers. The Garden State has the most road congestion nationwide and the second-worst road quality.

Congestion and poor infrastructure push NJ to the top of the list

To reach this conclusion, MoneyGeek analyzed data from the Federal Highway Administration, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration car accident data, U.S. Census Bureau, FBI, and more. After New Jersey, the next worst states for drivers are California, West Virginia, Mississippi, and Maryland, the survey says.

If you live in New Jersey, work here, or visit often, you may already know the daily challenges drivers face. You may even be among the thousands of car accident victims suffering injuries in the Garden State this year. Although nothing can guarantee roadway safety, at Shebell & Shebell, LLC, we know that awareness can reduce crash risks. Here’s what everyone needs to know about driving in New Jersey.

Worst in the nation?

MoneyGeek ranked states on five driving components – Cost, Congestion, Safety, Infrastructure, and Weather. Although New Jersey was ranked the worst state overall for driving, it performed well in a few of the measures. Here are the survey rank results for Jersey.

• 12th worst in the U.S. for driving costs
• Worst in the U.S. for roadway congestion
• 2nd worst infrastructure, including roadways, highways, and bridges

The state ranked very well in safety and weather. New Jersey is in the:

• Top 5 safest states for driving
• Top 10 states with the lowest weather-related fatal accident rate

News coverage of the survey revealed that New Jersey drivers can point to the factors that make driving in the state difficult. On a list of Garden State driver pet peeves are below-the-speed-limit drivers, speeders, road rage, and people who don’t use their blinkers or clear the snow off their vehicles before hitting the road.

New Jersey’s most dangerous roads

Although New Jersey ranked well for “safety,” many roadways in the state are known for being difficult or dangerous. An analysis of recent crash data reveals Bergen and Middlesex counties report the most car accidents, while crash hotspots exist throughout the state. Here are some of the most common crash locations in New Jersey:

• Route 9 in Freehold and Manalapan
• Route 36 in Eatontown
• I-676 in Camden
• Mt Ephraim Ave in Camden
• Black Horse Pike Us-322 in Pleasantville
• I-78 in Newark and Hillside

What to do if you are injured in a New Jersey car accident

As one of the worst, if not the worst, states for drivers, it is important to know what to do if you become the victim of a New Jersey car accident. At Shebell & Shebell, LLC our experienced car accident lawyers can guide you through the process toward maximum injury compensation. Here are some basic steps to take after a crash:

• Step 1. Ensure safety. Get to a safe location at the crash site and call 911. Wait for law enforcement to arrive.
• Step 2. Take photos and video of the crash site and injuries. This may be strong evidence for your claim.
• Step 3. See a doctor right away. Some car accident injuries cause delayed pain. It is possible to be dangerously injured after a crash and not know it. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you protect your health and document crash injuries for your claim.
• Step 4. Contact Shebell & Shebell, LLC. Our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the complex car accident claim process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Rely on 100 years of legal experience

If you were injured or a loved one died in a New Jersey car accident, contact Shebell & Shebell, LLC for a free case evaluation to discuss your potential legal options. A member of our team is available to hear from you right now. Contact us today.

There are over a dozen deadly teen driver crashes per year in New Jersey.

Summer is a time for relaxation, vacations, and spending quality time with family and friends. However, it is also a time when we witness a troubling trend: A surge in teen driver fatalities during what is known as the “100 Deadliest Days.” This period, spanning from Memorial Day to Labor Day, has consistently shown an increase in fatal car accidents involving teenage drivers across the U.S.

New Jersey has the country’s second lowest rate of teen driver deaths – 0.69 per 100,000 licensed drivers. Researchers say this is partly due to New Jersey teens frequently using safety belts and taking public transportation. However, fatal accidents still happen here. There are about 15 teen driver fatalities in New Jersey every year.

On average, half of all fatal teen crashes happen during summer months – and the situation is getting more dangerous. Nationwide in 2021, summertime fatal teen crashes increased by 6% over the prior year. They’re up 25% compared to 2019.

Factors in fatal teen crashes

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the “100 Deadliest Days” pose a significant threat as the warm weather, extended daylight hours, and the absence of school-related responsibilities create an environment conducive to increased driving activity. Several factors contribute to the rise in accidents during the summer months. One major factor is distracted driving. With more leisure time and an inclination to socialize, teens often engage in activities that divert their attention from the road. Texting, talking on the phone, interacting with passengers, or using in-car technology can significantly impair their ability to react to sudden hazards.

Additionally, speeding and reckless driving are common causes of fatal accidents involving teenagers. The excitement of summer and peer pressure can lead to a disregard for traffic laws and safe driving practices. Inexperience and not understanding of the consequences of their actions further exacerbate these risks.

Steps to reduce the risk of deadly teen driver accidents

Teen driver fatal accidents are devastating for families and communities. In January, Bloomfield experienced this tragedy first-hand when a 16-year-old Glen Ridge teen died in a single-car Brookdale Park accident. We can all take proactive measures to reduce traffic risks and protect young drivers. Here are some steps that can be taken:

• Raising awareness. Parents, schools, and community organizations can play a pivotal role in educating teen drivers about the dangers of distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior. Ongoing driver’s education programs and discussions about responsible driving can help raise awareness and promote safer habits.
• Parent involvement. Parents who set clear rules, such as limiting the number of passengers or enforcing a curfew, can help reduce distractions and encourage responsible behavior.
• Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL). New Jersey’s GDL program is designed to provide young drivers with gradual exposure to driving privileges. Ensuring compliance with GDL requirements and restrictions can contribute to safer driving habits.
• Technology. Utilizing technology such as smartphone apps or in-car devices – like lane assist and forward collision warning – as well as those that monitor driving behavior can help parents and guardians track their teen’s driving habits and address any concerns or areas for improvement.

Legal help for New Jersey car accident victims

The 100 Deadliest Days are a concerning time for everyone on the road, especially teen drivers and their families. Raising awareness and promoting safe driving practices can help reduce the risks and prevent tragic accidents. However, despite precautions, accidents can still occur.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in New Jersey, it is important to seek legal assistance right away to protect your rights and understand your potential legal options. At Shebell & Shebell, LLC, our experienced New Jersey car accident attorneys are here to support you and help you find your way forward.

We understand the complexities of New Jersey personal injury law and will fight for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Newark, NJ, Shrewsbury, NJ, or the surrounding area, contact Shebell & Shebell, LLC for a free consultation.

It took more than 10 years to get here, but New Jersey’s governor has signed a law giving greater protection to bicyclists pedaling in the street.

The bipartisan bill set rules for when it is and is not safe for a car or truck to pass a cyclist or pedestrian. Motorists who violate the law face fines of $100 or $500 (and two motor vehicle points) if they cause an injury.

New Jersey is the 43rd state to pass such a law, according to NJ.com.

The so-called “safe passing” rule applies to bicyclists and pedestrians, as well as people on scooters and motorized chairs, among other vulnerable roadway users. When a motorist wants to pass a bicyclist in New Jersey, the driver must now follow these regulations:

• Drivers must move over one lane or leave 4 feet of space between the vehicle and cyclist when passing, if it is safe to do so
• If it is not safe to do so, the driver must slow down to at least 25 mph until it is safe to pass

New Jersey car v. bicycle accidents

New Jersey was in serious need of a safe passing law. The state has one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country. Even worse, the rate keeps rising.

In New Jersey, the pedestrian fatal crash rate grew by 9% from 2019 to 2020, according to an analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). This increase represents 16 more pedestrian deaths than 2019 for a total of 191 deaths in 2020.

Dangerous Monmouth County intersections

New Jersey’s streets have a reputation of being dangerous for people on bicycles and those who are walking or jogging.  As we noted in July, a retired Plainfield police officer says he has had more close calls riding his bicycle than he ever did in 25 years on the force.

Some streets pose more risk to people than others. According to crash reports and local comments, some of the most dangerous intersections in Monmouth County and Central NJ are:

• Asbury Circle, Asbury Park
• Routes 35 and 36, Eatontown
• Stillwells Corner Road at West Main Street, Freehold
• Sycamore at Hance avenues, Freehold
• Collingwood Circle, Farmingdale
• Jackson Mills at Bergerville roads, Howell

The NJ difference

New Jersey’s new safe passing regulations took more than 10 years to develop and become law. When the legislation was first proposed in 2009, the bill would have required motorists to leave three feet between themselves and bicyclists when passing and nothing more.

Now the New Jersey bill is one of the more comprehensive safe passing bills in the U.S. The New Jersey law specifically spells out when it is unsafe to pass and what to do. Most bills do not go this far.

What a motorist should do if it is unsafe to pass is not addressed in most other state laws. For many people, the natural assumption is that if it is not safe to pass, you should slow down and wait for a good time to pass. Assuming that everyone will come to this conclusion, though, has left unnecessary room for debate. By spelling out what a motorist has to do when behind a slower-moving person, New Jersey is bringing clarity to the situation.

We hold negligent drivers accountable

New Jersey drivers have a new law they need to follow when on the road, but bicycle accidents are still going to happen. When a negligent driver hits a cyclist, pedestrian, or another person on the road, it is important that they are held fully responsible for their actions.

At Shebell & Shebell, LLC, we understand the long road to recovery victims often face. Attorney Thomas F. Shebell, III, our law firm’s managing partner, is an avid cyclist who was hit by a car in 2001 and severely injured while out for a bicycle ride. That’s why we take bicycle accidents so seriously. We know what you’re going through, and we know how to help make you whole again.