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Who Has the Right of Way?
What Motorists Should Know About Pedestrians' Rights
Motorists' Responsibilities
When a motorist meets a pedestrian in the road, who has the Right of Way? According to Georgia law, when a pedestrian shows an intention to cross the street by stepping off the curb, motorists must stop and stay stopped to allow the pedestrian to cross.
Intersections Without Signals
In 1995, the Georgia Legislature changed the crosswalk law. Drivers approaching crosswalks with pedestrians in them must stop and stay stopped, not just yield to them.
At crosswalks without signals pedestrians always have the right of way.
Intersections With Signals
Drivers turning right or left on green must stop and stay stopped for pedestrians. Before turning left, watch for pedestrians as well as oncoming traffic.
Before turning right on red, look to your passenger side. Someone could be walking in front of your car.
The flashing "Don't Walk" light provides a clearance time for pedestrians; it does not give drivers the right of way.
Respect Crosswalks
Know where the crosswalks are. Crosswalks exist on all four corners of most intersections in Georgia, whether or not they are marked by painted lines.
Do not stop in the crosswalk. Instead, stop behind the stop bar so that pedestrians can cross the street safely.
When approaching a car in another lane that has stopped at a crosswalk, stop. A pedestrian is probably crossing the street in front of that car.
Sidewalks Are For Walking
Before pulling out of a driveway, parking lot or garage, stop behind the sidewalk and check for pedestrians who might be using the sidewalk.
When stopping, standing or parking a vehicle, stay off of sidewalks and avoid blocking the sidewalk area of driveways.
You're a Pedestrian, Too!
A little courtesy goes a long way. Remember what it's like to be on foot, and how much you appreciate it when a motorist stops for you.
NOTE: You may copy this information, with reference to PEDS, for reuse in neighborhood newsletters and other resources.
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