Important Traffic Laws for Pedestrians

Pedestrian traffic laws promote safe sharing of roadways and protect pedestrians from being injured in automobile accidents.

Both pedestrians and motorists have an obligation to follow these laws and safely share the road. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car vs. pedestrian accident, you may have legal options.

The New Jersey car accident attorneys at Lynch Law Firm, PC are knowledgeable regarding pedestrian traffic laws and will fight for justice in your case, working to maximize your compensation.

New Jersey Revised Statutes Section 39:4-32 through Section 39:4-36.3 outline a number of important traffic laws both pedestrians and motorists should be aware of.

Crosswalk Laws and Crossing Roadways

• A vehicle is required to stop and allow a pedestrian the right of way while crossing at a crosswalk if the pedestrian is halfway through the crosswalk or closely approaching from the opposite half of the crosswalk as to create danger.
• When intending to cross in a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, pedestrians must yield the right of way to vehicles on the road.
• Pedestrians are not permitted to enter a crosswalk if it is impossible for a vehicle driver to stop or yield or if signs prevent entry.
• Pedestrians must obey instructions given by pedestrian control signals, unless a police officer directs otherwise.
• Only marked crosswalks with traffic control signals may be used by pedestrians to cross between adjacent intersections.
• Crossing intersections diagonally is only permitted with appropriate traffic control signals.

Pedestrians on the Road

• If sidewalks are available, it is illegal for a pedestrian to walk in the roadway or on bicycle paths or lanes.
• Pedestrians may walk along the left side of the roadway or on the road’s shoulder facing opposite traffic if sidewalks are not present.

Right of Way on Sidewalks

• If a vehicle is pulling out of or entering a driveway, private road, alley or building, it must yield the right of way to pedestrians approaching from the structure’s extending sidewalks.

Call (800) 518-0508  and learn more about your legal options from a New Jersey personal injury attorney at the Lynch Law Firm, PC.