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Driver Refresher on Pedestrian Laws

With the dark season upon us, here is what you need to know to avoid a ticket and, even more important, keep people safe.

What is a Crosswalk?

Generally, pedestrians have the right of way at all intersections. There is a crosswalk at every intersection, even if it is not marked by painted lines. The area included in the unmarked crosswalk is not less than six feet wide and exists even if there is no sidewalk or shoulder.

How much space should motorists give pedestrians?

At an intersection where pedestrians are crossing, you must wait until the pedestrians have cleared your lane and the entire next lane. If you are turning at a signal, you must stop and wait until pedestrians clear the lane you are turning into, plus six feet of the next lane.

When are pedestrians crossing?

A pedestrian is crossing the roadway when they show intent to cross, for instance by walking toward the intersection or standing on the curb edge of a sidewalk at an intersection looking toward traffic. Crossing is also clear when any part or extension of the pedestrian moves into the roadway in a crosswalk with intent to cross. This may include, but is not limited to, any part of the pedestrian's body, wheelchair, cane, crutch, or bicycle.

This is mainly because sometimes it is not safe for a pedestrian to step into the roadway until traffic fully stops. None of this means a pedestrian can jump into traffic suddenly and expect cars to stop if there is not ample time or distance. Clearly some intersections require additional precautions by pedestrians and drivers based on speed and design of the roadway.

Is it different for students?

At school crossings, you must stop when students enter the crosswalk from either side of the street or if a patrol guard signals you to do so. Remain stopped until the students clear the crosswalk.

What about divided roads?

You are not required to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk if you are traveling along the half of the roadway that is on the other side of a safety island from the pedestrian.

This article is from the monthly “Sheriff’s Office News,” an entertaining and informative publication. You can sign up to get it in your inbox here. Visit the main Sheriff website for many important tips, resources and more.

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