Walk Smart

Walk Smart, Know the Law and Safe Practices

Walk the Line

Pedestrians are not allowed to walk on roadways when sidewalks are available. If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians are required to stay to the extreme left edge of the road and walk facing the oncoming traffic.

Sidewalks

Pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks. Sidewalks are constructed to keep pedestrians safe.  Bicyclists should ride more slowly and be more alert on sidewalks — particularly when approaching a pedestrian. When passing a pedestrian when on a sidewalk, the bicyclist preferably should be traveling no faster than the pedestrian. The bicyclist should give an audible warning such as “bike on your left!,” and wait for the pedestrian to move over.

Motorists should look for pedestrians and bicyclists, and yield to them when turning across sidewalks. When crossing a sidewalk, motorists should scan enough of the sidewalk to see higher-speed bicyclists.

Even though they have the right of way on sidewalks, pedestrians can avoid crashes by paying attention to motor vehicle and bicycle traffic.

Pedestrians should make eye contact with motorists and bicyclists to be sure to be seen when crossing streets, sidewalks, crosswalks, paths, and driveways.

Crosswalks

Pedestrians are required by law to cross at crosswalks whenever possible.

Crosswalks may be marked or painted on the street. In addition, crosswalks occur wherever sidewalks meet the street and where streets intersect. This type of crosswalk is called an “unmarked crosswalk” in the Code of Virginia.

Crossing at crosswalks allows pedestrians to cross in locations where motorists expect them. However, crashes often occur at intersections, so motorists and pedestrians must be alert.

Scan and Cross

Before crossing, stop, look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT (and over the shoulder) for approaching and turning traffic.

Many people cross streets in midblock locations. In some locations this is both legal and safer than other locations. Pedestrians crossing midblock should use high levels of watchfulness and care, since many motorists may not be looking for them. Especially in urban areas, motorists expect pedestrians to cross at crosswalks, and pedestrians should expect motorists and bicyclists to watch out for them.

Slow down!

Don’t rush or speed. Motorist speeding is a major factor in crashes with pedestrians. Stepping in front of moving vehicles is another major cause. Take the time to keep yourself and others safe.