Chapter 8: Sharing the Road

Public roadways are a shared space for a diverse mix of users, from pedestrians and bicyclists to large commercial trucks and emergency vehicles. Understanding how to safely and legally interact with each of these users is a core responsibility of every driver. These rules are designed to protect the most vulnerable, account for the physical limitations of different vehicles, and ensure a clear path for emergency responders, making our roads safer for everyone.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Pedestrians and bicyclists are the most vulnerable users of the roadway. Drivers have a legal and ethical duty to exercise the utmost care to protect them.

Pedestrians

Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at all intersections and crosswalks, whether they are marked or unmarked. When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk on your half of the roadway, or approaching from the other side, you must come to a complete stop and allow them to cross safely.

• Blind Pedestrians: A pedestrian using a white cane or a guide dog has the absolute right-of-way. You must stop your vehicle and remain stopped until they have safely crossed the entire roadway, regardless of the traffic signal.
• Crosswalks: Never stop your vehicle with any portion of it inside a crosswalk. This forces pedestrians to walk around your vehicle and into traffic.