Pennsylvania crosswalk laws are designed to protect pedestrians and ensure safe interactions with vehicles on the road. According to law, pedestrians have the right of way when crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks, meaning drivers must yield to them. Marked crosswalks are easily identifiable by painted lines on the pavement, while unmarked crosswalks exist at intersections with no visible lines.
Both pedestrians and drivers have specific responsibilities when approaching a crosswalk. Pedestrians should always use designated crossings and wait for a clear signal before stepping onto the street.
Drivers must come to a complete stop when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk and give them ample time to cross safely.
When drivers fail to adhere to crosswalk laws, it can result in a severe accident and injuries. Mooney Law is here to help you seek justice if you are injured in a pedestrian accident. Contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Pennsylvania to demand the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian Laws in Pennsylvania
There are several laws on pedestrians’ use of crosswalks. These laws state:
- Pedestrians must heed the instructions of police officers and traffic controllers, with local ordinances potentially mandating compliance with traffic signals (Section 3541).
- In the absence of traffic signals, vehicles are obligated to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections, while pedestrians must refrain from abruptly entering the path of vehicles (Section 3542).
- Pedestrians not using crosswalks or intersections must yield to vehicular traffic, with jaywalking only permissible under the direction of a police officer or traffic controller (Section 3543).
- Pedestrians should use available sidewalks. If they are unavailable, they must walk on the road shoulder or outer edge (Section 3544).
- Hitchhiking is prohibited (Section 3545), and vehicular traffic is restricted from safety zones (Section 3546).
- Pedestrians on sidewalks have the right of way, and vehicles entering sidewalks must yield (Section 3547).
- While pedestrians must yield to emergency vehicles, the latter must prioritize pedestrian safety (Section 3548).
- Section 3549 addresses the rights and responsibilities of blind pedestrians.
When drivers and pedestrians do not adhere to these laws, it can have deadly consequences.
In these cases, the best thing a victim can do is contact a pedestrian accident attorney in Pennsylvania. Legal options may be available to help those harmed get justice.
However, identifying the accident’s cause is imperative to your case’s success.
Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents
In 2022, more than 3,211 pedestrians were injured in crashes across Pennsylvania. A total of 184 victims ended up passing away from their injuries.
Although pedestrian safety should be a high priority, there are many cases where pedestrians lose their lives due to driver negligence. Some of the most common factors in these accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: When drivers are not fully focused on the road, they may fail to notice pedestrians crossing at designated crosswalks. This distraction could result from smartphone use, adjusting the radio, or simply not paying attention.
- Failing to Yield the Right of Way: Some drivers may disregard pedestrian signals or speed through intersections without giving walkers a chance to cross the street safely. This lack of respect for pedestrian rights can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities.
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Impaired drivers may have slowed reaction times or reduced awareness of pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Turning Vehicles: There are many instances where drivers turn at intersections without looking for pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Poor Visibility: Inadequate lighting conditions, especially at night or in harsh weather, make it challenging for drivers and pedestrians to see each other. This decreased visibility increases the likelihood of collisions occurring at crosswalks.
Victims injured in pedestrian accidents have the right to take legal action. Working with a Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer will provide the best chance of getting justice.
Legal Rights of Injured Pedestrians
When pedestrians are injured in a crosswalk accident in Pennsylvania, they have legal rights that protect their well-being and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries.
Under Pennsylvania law, drivers are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. If a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle while legally crossing the street, the driver may be liable for any injuries or damages.
Injured pedestrians can seek compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit. This claim can help them obtain money for pain and suffering, medical costs, lost wages, and other related expenses. Pedestrians must consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Pennsylvania who can help navigate the legal process and fight for their rights.
Contact Our Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
At Mooney Law, we pride ourselves on our client-centered approach and unmatched legal expertise in navigating car accident laws in Pennsylvania. Our personalized strategy for each case has a proven track record of success, and our dedication to serving our clients ensures that you are supported throughout the entire legal process.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation, and let us help guide you toward a positive outcome in your case.
Call our pedestrian accident attorney in Pennsylvania today to discuss your legal options.
