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. Safe driving requires not only controlling your own vehicle but also understanding the unique characteristics and rights of others. Knowing the specific laws for interacting with vulnerable road users and specialized vehicles is essential for preventing crashes and is a critical part of the driver’s license exam.

Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Pedestrians and bicyclists are the most vulnerable users of the roadway. Drivers have a legal and moral responsibility to exercise extreme caution to protect them.

Pedestrians

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

• Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. An unmarked crosswalk exists at any intersection where sidewalks meet the street. Do not pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk, as they are likely yielding to a pedestrian you cannot see.
• Blind Pedestrians: A pedestrian using a guide dog or a white cane (with or without a red tip) has the absolute right-of-way. A driver must stop and remain stopped until the person has safely crossed the road. Honking your horn is not appropriate as it can startle the person or their guide dog.