Pedestrians are the most vulnerable users of our roadways. They are people who are standing, walking, running or using mobility aids on public streets, highways and private property. As a driver, it is your responsibility to watch out for pedestrians because motor vehicles are heavy objects that can cause serious injuries or death.
Here are some more things to remember to help keep pedestrians safe:
- Do not assume that pedestrians can hear or see your vehicle or any visual or audible crossing signals as some pedestrians may be deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, or blind.
- Follow the speed limit or drive at a slower speed when necessary to help you to see and respond to pedestrians.
- Remember, some pedestrians like children or people using wheelchairs have a lower profile.
- Pedestrians have the right-of-way at all intersections and crosswalks, even if the lines are not marked or painted. Drivers must yield or come to a complete stop to let pedestrians pass safely.
- Look for pedestrians at all intersections, especially if you are turning.
- While turning at a red light, make sure you are in the correct lane and come to a complete stop. Check for pedestrians in all directions to make sure your path is clear before moving forward to check for vehicle traffic.
- Do not stop with any portion of your vehicle covering the crosswalk area.
- Watch for pedestrians entering or exiting their cars while passing parked vehicles.
- Drive very cautiously around schools, parks, parking lots, bus stops and special events where pedestrians are likely to be present.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk because the driver may be stopping for pedestrians that you can’t see.
- Check blind spots and mirrors while backing your car out of a parking space or driveway.