that pedestrians have rules to follow, too? The rules of the road are guidelines designed to keep everyone safe, prevent accidents, and promote harmony between pedestrians and drivers. Whether you’re walking to work, strolling your neighborhood, or exploring a city, understanding these rules can make a big difference for your safety and the safety of others.
Important Pedestrian Rules of the Road
1. Pedestrians Have the Right of Way When Using a Crosswalk
Crosswalks are designated spaces for pedestrians to cross the road safely. Whether marked with painted lines or not, crosswalks exist at most intersections, and pedestrians using them have the legal right of way.
When crossing a street, stay within the crosswalk and only step off the curb when it is safe to do so. Keeping within the crosswalk helps drivers predict where you’ll be, lowering the chance of an accident.
2. Drivers Must Yield the Right of Way to a Pedestrian Using a Crosswalk
If a pedestrian is actively using a crosswalk, drivers are required to yield, which means not entering the crosswalk with their vehicle until the pedestrian has crossed safely. This rule applies in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. For wide or multilane crosswalks, drivers are sometimes permitted to enter the crosswalk once all pedestrians are well out of the vehicle’s way, even if they remain in the crosswalk.
For example, an unmarked crosswalk is often found at intersections without painted lines but where crossing is still legally permissible. Even here, drivers must respect a pedestrian's legal right of way.
3. Pedestrians Must Use a Sidewalk When Sidewalks Are Present
Sidewalks provide a safe separation between pedestrians and moving vehicles, so they must be used by pedestrians when available. Walking on the roadway where a sidewalk exists is not only dangerous but also against the rules and could result in a citation.
4. Pedestrians Should Walk Facing Traffic When Sidewalks Are Not Present
If no sidewalk is available, pedestrians must walk on the side of the road or shoulder facing oncoming traffic. This rule gives drivers a clearer view of the pedestrian, and the other way around. Walking against traffic also means you’ll have more time to react if a car is veering too close. It’s a particularly important rule when walking in rural areas or along busier roads without sidewalks.
Local Variations in Pedestrian Rules
While pedestrian rules of the road apply broadly, some cities or counties may have unique pedestrian laws. For example, specific areas may strictly enforce anti-jaywalking rules or install crossing signals with unique instructions. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with pedestrian laws in your area to avoid breaking any rules and to stay as safe as possible.
Shared Responsibility for Safer Roads
By following the rules of the road, pedestrians can do their part to make streets safer, not just for themselves but for every road user. Drivers and pedestrians share the responsibility of looking out for each other, understanding the law, and acting carefully to keep roads safe.
No matter where you live or walk, taking a few moments to understand and follow these pedestrian rules of the road can protect you from harm and help create a more organized, respectful flow of traffic. Stay informed, stay safe, and take every step with care.
If you are hit by a negligent driver while you were walking as a pedestrian anywhere in Tennessee, Alabama, or Georgia, come to The Hamilton Firm LLC for legal counsel. Our pedestrian accident lawyers have represented many clients who were seriously injured while walking due to a driver’s mistakes, including those with life-changing injuries. We have the experience to help you understand your rights and legal options. Call (423) 454-3288 now for a free consultation.