On A Bicycle
N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.1 — a driver's rights, the right side, and four feet to pass
In New Jersey, every person riding a bicycle on a roadway has all the rights and duties of the driver of a vehicle, except provisions that by their nature can have no application.
Where on the road. A rider stays as near the right side of the roadway as practicable, with due care when passing, but may move left to turn left from a left-turn lane, avoid debris or hazards, pass a slower vehicle, occupy any available lane when traveling at the same speed as other traffic, or ride two abreast when traffic is not impeded.
A lane over, four feet, or slow to 25. A driver approaching a bicyclist changes into a lane not next to the rider when possible; otherwise leaves a reasonable and safe distance of not less than four feet; and if neither is possible or safe, slows to 25 miles per hour or a lower posted speed and passes only when it is safe. A violation causing bodily injury carries a $500 fine and two motor vehicle penalty points.
Helmets. A person under 17 years of age operating a bicycle, or riding on one as a passenger, wears a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet.
| The assumption | What the law actually does |
|---|---|
| The assumptionA cyclist must always ride at the edge | What the law actually doesMay occupy any available lane when traveling at the same speed as other traffic |
| The assumptionA narrow gap is enough to pass | What the law actually doesNot less than four feet, or a lane change, or slowing to 25 miles per hour |
Local ordinances on sidewalks, paths and bicycle registration are not all on this page. How these rules apply to a particular crash or ticket is a question for a licensed New Jersey attorney.
Sources for this section (4)
- N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.1 — Rights, duties of bicycle riders on roadways
- N.J.S.A. 39:4-14.2 — Keeping to right; exceptions; single file
- N.J.S.A. 39:4-10.1 — Bicycle helmets, requirements
- N.J.S.A. 39:4-92.4 — Motor vehicles overtaking pedestrians, bicycles and personal conveyances
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed New Jersey attorney.