48:4-2.1a Discontinuance of operation of motor vehicle.

90. a. The commission may make rules, regulations and orders applicable to the construction, equipment and insurance required of every motor vehicle within the jurisdiction of the commission, and shall inspect, through its agents, inspectors and employees, any such motor vehicle to determine the manner of compliance with such rules, regulations and orders.

b. In the event of noncompliance with such rules, regulations and orders, or with statutory requirements, the commission may, through its agents, inspectors and employees, cause the immediate discontinuance of the operation of such motor vehicle, and no such motor vehicle shall be restored to service without the express approval of the commission.

c. Any person who shall remove or deface any notice of discontinuance that has been affixed or otherwise attached to the motor vehicle without approval of the commission is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree. In addition to any other penalties or remedies provided by law, a person who violates this subsection is subject to a civil penalty of $1,000.

d. Any person who owns or causes to be operated a motor vehicle subject to this section without a valid certificate of inspection issued by the commission, or in violation of rules or orders made by the commission concerning insurance requirements of that vehicle, is a disorderly person. In addition to any other penalties or remedies provided by law, a person who violates this subsection is subject to a civil penalty of $500 per day for each vehicle so operated.

e. Any person who operates a motor vehicle subject to this section without a valid certificate of inspection issued by the commission, or in violation of rules or orders made by the commission concerning insurance requirements of that vehicle, is a petty disorderly person.

f. Any inspection conducted pursuant to this section relating to emissions from a motor vehicle powered with diesel fuel that is also subject to the provisions of P.L.1995, c.157 (C.39:8-59 et al.) shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of that act.

L.1962,c.198,s.90; amended 1987, c.452, s.1; 1995, c.157, s.36; 2003, c.13, s.92.