Walking is a healthy and eco-friendly way to get around, but it also comes with risks. Pedestrian accidents can happen when travelers do not follow traffic rules. Knowing these rules helps walkers stay safe and avoid accidents, and it also helps drivers appreciate their responsibilities to pedestrians.
When pedestrians have the right-of-way
In Kentucky, laws are in place to ensure everyone shares the road safely. For example, drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, even if there are no traffic signals at the crosswalk. If a pedestrian steps into a crosswalk and is moving across the street, vehicles must stop until the person is safely out of the driver’s path.
At intersections with traffic signals, pedestrians can cross when the signal shows a “Walk” sign. Drivers must wait until the pedestrian finishes crossing, even if the light turns green for the car. If there is no crosswalk or signal, pedestrians should yield to cars and cross only when it is safe.
Responsibilities of pedestrians
Pedestrians also have rules to follow. For instance, they must use crosswalks when they are available. Crossing outside of a crosswalk (also called “jaywalking”) is unsafe and against the law in many areas. Walkers should avoid stepping into the street from between parked cars or other areas where drivers may not see them.
Pedestrians are also encouraged to walk on sidewalks when they are available. If there is no sidewalk, they should walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. This makes them more visible to oncoming vehicles.
Knowing Kentucky’s pedestrian right-of-way laws helps reduce accidents and injuries. Walkers and drivers both play a role in keeping streets safe. By following these rules, pedestrians can protect themselves physically while walking and know how to fight for their legal rights if an accident occurs. If you’ve been injured by a distracted driver while walking, talking to an experienced personal injury lawyer is a crucial step in your recovery.