Aiming to ensure that pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists are safe on Princeton’s streets, the Princeton Police Department is hosting a free seminar to explain how traffic laws apply to all road users on June 12.
The two-hour seminar, entitled “Title 39: Traffic Law for Vulnerable Road Users,” is set for 6-8 p.m. June 12 at the Witherspoon Hall municipal building at 400 Witherspoon St. It is geared toward adults and teens alike.
The seminar, which is being co-sponsored by the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey, will explain how state traffic laws apply to vulnerable road users such as bicyclists and pedestrians. It is being taught by Princeton University Police Officer John Barbour.
The seminar will explain the rights and duties of people in cars and on bicycles and e-bikes, as well as other road users. The goal is to educate motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists and others on their rights as they navigate the streets in town.
The number of crashes involving pedestrians with injuries has climbed from nine in 2022 to 11 in 2023 and to 16 in 2024. There was one fatality each in 2022 and 2023, according to the Princeton Police Department. Another pedestrian fatality occurred earlier this year in March.
There was one crash involving a pedestrian that did not involve injuries in 2023.
The number of crashes with injuries involving bicyclists increased from five in 2022 to 12 each in 2023 and 2024, according to the Princeton Police Department. There was one crash without injuries in 2023 and four in 2024.
“Ensuring the safety of all who share our roads, whether they are walking, biking or driving, is a top priority for our department,” Police Chief Christopher Tash said.
“Programs like this one will help to build a culture of awareness, respect and responsibility among all road users. When we understand the laws and each other’s needs, we all get home safer.”
To sign up, visit https://tinyurl.com/4ta4w2u2.
