New Law Aims to Improve Driver, Pedestrian, and Cyclist Safety in New Jersey

TRENTON — A new law signed by Gov. Phil Murphy will require New Jersey driver education programs to include instruction on safely sharing the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, and users of personal mobility devices.

Assembly Bill A4765, sponsored by Assembly members Lisa Swain, Dave Bailey Jr., and Heather Simmons, was signed into law on Thursday, July 17, 2025, during a ceremony attended by Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin and other state lawmakers.

The legislation mandates updates to driver’s manuals and tests to ensure new drivers are educated on how to properly approach and pass pedestrians and others sharing public roadways.

“Everyone who uses our roads deserves to feel safe, whether they are driving, biking, or simply crossing the street,” said Speaker Coughlin. “This law ensures new drivers in New Jersey are taught how to safely share the road and understand their responsibilities to others from day one.”

Supporters say the law is a proactive step toward reducing traffic injuries and fatalities, particularly involving vulnerable road users.

“As an avid runner and cyclist myself, I know how vulnerable people are on our roadways,” said Assemblywoman Swain (D-Bergen). “This legislation is about saving lives and creating safer roads for everyone.”

Assemblyman Bailey (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland) emphasized the need to better equip drivers before they get behind the wheel.

“Too many tragedies happen because drivers are not properly educated on how to approach pedestrians, cyclists, or people using personal mobility devices,” Bailey said. “This law gives new drivers the tools they need to help prevent those tragedies.”

Assemblywoman Simmons (D-Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland) echoed those sentiments.

“Our roads should be safe for all users, not just those behind the wheel,” she said. “By including pedestrian and cyclist safety in driver education, we are making sure every new driver understands their role in protecting others on the road.”

The law will take effect immediately, with updates to the driver’s manual and licensing tests to follow.

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