New Jersey Attorney General Paula T. Dow and Division of Highway Traffic Safety Director Pam Fischer reminded motorists that effective April 1 they must now stop – and remain stopped — for pedestrians in a crosswalk. Prior to this legislative change, motorists were required to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.

“For years, too many pedestrians have been dying in traffic accidents in New Jersey,” Dow said. “With these changes to our law, motorists and pedestrians will no longer have to play a game of chicken when it comes to maneuvering on our roads. The law brings new clarity that drivers must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks, and pedestrians, in turn, must use due care and not jaywalk or step into traffic outside of those crossing points.”

Fischer explained that her agency will be working with law enforcement officials to educatemotorists and pedestrians about the change in the law.

“We are asking law enforcement officials, when interacting with motorists and pedestrians, to educate them about the change to the law, as well their respective duties and responsibilities when walking or driving,” said Fischer. “Our goal is to reinforce the importance of pedestrians always using crosswalks, their safety zone, and for motorists to recognize that when approaching a crosswalk they must be alert for pedestrians and stop and stay stopped to allow them to cross safely.

“We recognize thatwe cannot change everyone’s behavior overnight; this will take sustained effort over a long period of time,” Fischer added. “However, through education and enforcement, we can change the culture and improve safety for all road users.”

Motorists violating the new law face a $200 fine, plus court costs, and 2 points on their driver’s license. They can also be subject to 15 days of community service and insurance surcharges. Pedestrians may also be cited under state law for failing to use due care when crossing. The law requires them to obey pedestrian signals and use crosswalks at signalized intersections, as well as yield the right of way to traffic if they are not crossing within a crosswalk or at an intersection. Failure to comply with the law carries a $54 fine, plus court costs.

Fischer noted that since 2004, approximately 150 pedestrians have been killed annually in traffic related crashes on New Jersey roads. In 2009, after a three-year downward trend, the number of pedestrian deaths statewide increased to 157. As of March 26, 2010, 28 pedestrians have been killed in motor vehicle-related crashes statewide, as compared to 48 for the same time period in 2009. Additionally, since 2004, more than 30,000 pedestrians have been injured in motorvehicle related crashes statewide.

“While the numbers are once again moving in the right direction, even one life lost is one too many,” Fischer said. “Until we achieve zero fatalities, we must educate pedestrians and motorists about the importance of remaining alert at all times, and taking personal responsibility for their actions.”