Motor Vehicle Statues

Car Seat Regulations

For car seats in the state of New Jersey, the child using the car seat must be 7 years and younger and weigh less than 80 lbs.  Also, the car seat must be placed in the rear seat of the vehicle if there is one available.  An adult safety belt is not permissible.  For the first offense, the maximum fine is $47.

Seat Belt Regulations

As of May 1, 2000, there is a standard enforcement for the use of seat belts in the state of New Jersey.  Everyone must wear their seatbelts.  All children from the ages of 7 years and younger and weigh more than 80 lbs must wear seatbelts at all times; otherwise they must be in a car seat.  For adults, if you are not wearing your seatbelt, you will be fined $45.

Cell Phone Law

It will be unlawful to use a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle on any highway, street or road EXCEPT:

• When using a hands-free system and while doing so it does not interfere with the operation of the vehicle. It must also not obstruct the deployment of any airbags.
• A person may use a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle when the operator has reason to fear for their lives and or safety or believe a criminal act may be perpetrated against them or another.
• To report a fire, motor vehicle accident, serious road hazard, medical emergency, hazardous material emergency or to report a careless, reckless, unsafe or possible drunk driver.
• FINE:  $100.00 – $250.00

Violations and Fines

• Adult Seatbelt Violation: 39:3-76.2f  – $45.00
• Document Violation: Not in Possession of Drivers License, Registration, Insurance Card – $176.00
• Vehicle Inspection Violations: 39:8-1 & 39:8-4 – $126.00
• Twp Ordinance Parking Violations T.O.21:11-1.2 – $23.00
• Wipers on / Headlamps Required: 39:3-47a – $47.00
• Handicapped Parking Violation: 39:4-138.O – $250.00*

* in addition, the vehicle may be towed.

All other violations that were $78.00 are now $81.00

Driving While Under the Influence of Liquor or Drugs

The legal limit has been changed from .10% BAC to .08% BAC. There also have been changes in the fines and length of suspensions.

1st Offense

• .08% -.09% BAC – Fine: $250 – $400. Suspension:  3 months. IDRC:12-48 hours
• .10% -.15% BAC – Fine: $300 – $500. Suspension: 7 months – 1 year. IDRC: 12-48 hours
• .16% & Higher –  Fine: $400-$600. Suspension: 9 months – 1 year. IDRC: 12-48 hours

2nd Offense

• Fine: $500 – $1,000
• Suspension: 2 years
• Community Service: 30 days
• Ignition Interlock Installed

3rd & Subsequent Offenses

• Fine: $1,000
• Suspension: 10 years
• Jail: Up to 180 days
• No Community Service Option
• Ignition Interlock Installed

Additional penalties

Imposed by law for each conviction of 39:4-50 on 1st, 2nd, 3rd or higher

• $200.00 Drunk Driving Enforcement Fund
• $50.00 Victim Crime Compensation Board
• $75.00 Safe Neighborhood Fund

Fines and Penalties listed on this web page DO NOT include additional court costs, lab fees or other penalties imposed by law.

To determine your total fine please call the municipal court for the town where you received a traffic ticket or were arrested.  A court clerk will advise you of your total fine.

The municipal court office is closed on all legal holidays.  After hours, holidays or on weekends DO NOT phone the police department with questions concerning fines and penalties.

Penns Grove Municipal Court
Monday thru Friday 9am – 4pm
(856) 678-3089 ext 117, 118 or 119