Chapter 8: Sharing the Road

Highways are shared spaces used by a diverse mix of vehicles and people, from pedestrians and bicyclists to large commercial trucks and emergency responders. Understanding how to safely interact with these different road users is a cornerstone of defensive driving and a major component of the driver’s test. Knowing the specific laws for yielding, passing, and giving space is essential for preventing crashes and ensuring everyone reaches their destination safely.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and bicyclists, lack the protection of a motor vehicle and require extra caution from drivers.

Pedestrians

Drivers have a legal and moral responsibility to protect pedestrians.

• Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. An unmarked crosswalk is the part of the roadway at an intersection that would be included within the extensions of the sidewalk lines across the street. Do not stop your vehicle in a crosswalk, as this forces pedestrians into the path of traffic.
• Blind Pedestrians: A driver must come to a complete stop when approaching a pedestrian who is blind and using a guide dog or carrying a white cane. The driver must remain stopped until the person is safely out of the roadway.
• General Caution: Always be alert for pedestrians, especially children who may dart into the street unexpectedly. Be particularly watchful in residential areas, school zones, and business districts.