Chapter 8: Sharing the Road

Successfully sharing the road with a diverse mix of users—from pedestrians and bicyclists to large trucks and emergency vehicles—is a hallmark of a skilled and responsible driver. These interactions require heightened awareness and a clear understanding of specific laws designed to protect the most vulnerable. This knowledge is not only vital for passing your driver’s exam but is essential for preventing tragic and avoidable collisions every time you drive.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Drivers of motor vehicles bear the primary responsibility for protecting vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. Due to their lack of protection, even a minor collision can result in severe injury or death.

Pedestrians

You must always be prepared to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.

• Crosswalks: Drivers must stop and yield to a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk. This applies even if the crosswalk is in the middle of a block. At intersections, you must yield to pedestrians crossing in both marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Turning: When turning at an intersection, even with a green light, you must yield to any pedestrians crossing the street you are turning onto.
• Visually Impaired Pedestrians: You must come to a complete stop when you see a person using a white cane or a guide dog. Do not honk your horn, as this can disorient them. Remain stopped until the person has safely crossed the entire roadway.
• General Caution: Always exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian. Slow down in residential areas, school zones, and near playgrounds where children may dart into the street unexpectedly.