Chapter 8: Sharing the Road

Public roadways are a shared space, and drivers of passenger cars are not the only users. Learning to safely interact with pedestrians, bicyclists, large trucks, and emergency vehicles is a non-negotiable part of driving. These interactions carry a high risk of serious injury or death if rules are ignored, which is why they are a major focus of both driver education and the official knowledge test.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Pedestrians and cyclists are the most vulnerable users of the roadway. A driver’s awareness and courtesy are their primary protection against serious injury.

Responsibilities to Pedestrians

Drivers must always be watchful for pedestrians, especially in cities, near schools, and in residential areas.

• Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Do not pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk, as they may be waiting for a pedestrian to cross.
• Blind Pedestrians: A driver must come to a complete stop when approaching a blind pedestrian who is carrying a white cane (with or without a red tip) or is being led by a guide dog. The driver must remain stopped until the pedestrian is safely across the roadway.

Responsibilities to Bicyclists and Motorcyclists

Bicyclists and motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles. They are legally entitled to use a full traffic lane.

• Full Lane Use: Never attempt to share a lane with a motorcycle. Because they are smaller, it is easy to misjudge their speed and distance. Always give them the entire lane width.
• Passing Clearance: When passing a bicyclist, Alabama law requires you to provide a minimum of three feet of clearance between your vehicle and the bicycle. Slow down and wait until it is safe to pass with this required buffer.
• Visibility: Motorcycles and bicycles are harder to see in traffic. Always make a conscious effort to look for them, especially before turning left at an intersection, changing lanes, or pulling out from a driveway.

Pro-Tip:
When driving near large trucks, remember this rule: “If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in their side-view mirror, they can’t see you.” This means you are in one of their blind spots, or “No-Zones.”