Pedestrian Laws in Texas

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries because pedestrians lack protection against heavy vehicles weighing thousands of pounds. Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers fail to look out for pedestrians or disobey traffic signals. However, not all pedestrian accidents are automatically the driver’s fault. Pedestrians must follow applicable laws, too. Understanding the rules that apply to drivers and pedestrians can help keep everyone safe on the roadway.

Crosswalk Rules

Crosswalks provide a safe space for pedestrians to cross the street. However, there are different rules for crosswalks, depending on the type involved. Here are the general rules for crosswalks in Texas:

• Marked crosswalks: Marked crosswalks are indicated by painted lines on the pavement and may be equipped with pedestrian signals. Pedestrians and drivers must obey the signals at these crosswalks. Drivers must look out for pedestrians here and be prepared to stop.
• Unmarked crosswalks: Crosswalks without painted lines must still be treated as crosswalks, as they give pedestrians a legal right to cross. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in unmarked crosswalks and should watch out for them to avoid collisions.
• Controlled crosswalks: Controlled crosswalks have traffic control signals that regulate pedestrian crossing. Pedestrians can only cross when a “Walk” sign is illuminated. They must not step off the curb when there is a “Don’t Walk” signal. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who are already in a crosswalk when the signal changes.
• Uncontrolled crosswalks: Areas without traffic lights are uncontrolled crosswalks. Drivers must yield to pedestrians, but pedestrians must exercise caution before stepping into the street. They should not step into a crosswalk if a vehicle is too close to safely stop.

While pedestrians generally have the right-of-way at crosswalks, they must ensure they safely cross. They must not step into traffic if there is insufficient time for a vehicle to stop to avoid a collision.

Crossing Mid-Block

If there is no crosswalk or the pedestrian is crossing in the middle of the block, they must yield to vehicles. Drivers are not required to stop for these pedestrians.

Using Sidewalks

If a sidewalk is available, pedestrians must use it. Walking on the roadway is actually prohibited.

Walking on the Roadway

When a sidewalk is not available, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road or its shoulder so that they are facing oncoming traffic. This provides greater protection to pedestrians since they can see motorists and take evasive action, if necessary.

Blind Pedestrians

If a pedestrian is using a white cane or a guide dog, they have the right of way. Drivers are required to stop for them.

Local Ordinances

Some Texas municipalities have special ordinances pertaining to pedestrians, such as having pedestrian-only zones, restricting access to pedestrians, or regulating pedestrian traffic in busy areas.

Contact a Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review

If someone violated a pedestrian law in Texas and you were injured as a result, an experienced San Antonio pedestrian accident attorney from The Aguirre Law Firm PLLC can help. We have extensive experience helping accident victims and can fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.