The pedestrian. Drivers must always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, whether it is marked or unmarked.
What must a driver do when approaching a pedestrian who is in or is stepping into a crosswalk?
You must slow down and come to a complete stop to allow the pedestrian to cross the street safely.
A vehicle ahead of you has stopped at a crosswalk. What should you NOT do?
Do not pass or overtake the stopped vehicle. It has likely stopped for a pedestrian you cannot see. Passing is illegal and extremely dangerous.
When must you yield to a pedestrian at an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection?
Always. An unmarked crosswalk has the same legal standing as a marked one. You must yield if the pedestrian is in or stepping into the crosswalk.
What are the potential consequences for a driver who fails to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian?
Fines, points added to your driving record, and potential criminal charges if an injury or death occurs.
Are drivers required to stop for pedestrians waiting on the curb to cross at a crosswalk?
This can vary by state, but the safest and most common legal standard is to stop. As a new driver, you should always stop if a pedestrian is at the curb of a crosswalk and appears to be waiting to cross.
What precautions should you take when driving near school zones and school crosswalks?
Be extra vigilant, drive at or below the posted speed limit, and always obey instructions from a school crossing guard. Be prepared for children to enter the street unexpectedly.
Is it safe to make eye contact with a pedestrian and assume they are yielding the right-of-way to you?
No. Never assume a pedestrian will yield to you, even if they make eye contact. As a driver, the responsibility to yield and avoid a collision rests with you.
When driving at night or in poor weather, what adjustments should you make when approaching crosswalks?
Reduce your speed and scan the area more carefully. Pedestrians are much harder to see in low light or bad weather conditions.
If you are making a turn at an intersection, who do you need to look out for?
You must look for and yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk you are turning into, in addition to yielding to any oncoming traffic.
What is the safest way to pass a crosswalk, even if you don't see any pedestrians?
Reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. Scan both sides of the road for any pedestrians who might be about to enter the crosswalk.
What does a pedestrian carrying a white cane with a red tip or using a guide dog signify?
The pedestrian is blind or has low vision. You must give them the absolute right-of-way. Do not honk your horn, as it could startle them or their guide dog. Stop and remain stopped until they have safely crossed the street.
