Chapter 8: Sharing the Road

A driver’s license signifies the ability to operate a vehicle, but safe driving requires the skill to coexist with a wide variety of other road users. Understanding how to safely share the road with pedestrians, cyclists, large trucks, and emergency vehicles is a core component of defensive driving and a major topic on the licensing exam. Mastering these rules is not just about courtesy; it is about preventing serious injury and understanding the unique challenges and rights of every person on the roadway.

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 physical protection, collisions involving these individuals are often severe.

Pedestrians

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

• Crosswalks: Drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, whether it is marked with painted lines or is an unmarked crossing at an intersection. Never pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk, as they are likely yielding to a pedestrian you cannot see.
• Blind Pedestrians: The law provides special protection for blind pedestrians. When you see a person with a guide dog or a white cane (with or without a red tip), you must stop your vehicle at least 15 feet away and remain stopped until they have safely crossed the road. Do not honk your horn, as this can disorient the person or their guide dog.