Some crosswalks use several rectangular blocks of paint to indicate where you should walk across, while others use two parallel lines to designate the crossing area. You will typically find crosswalks at an intersection with another street. However, they may sometimes be in the middle of a block if you’re in an area that has high foot traffic.
While a pedestrian crosswalk system will help you stay safe, it doesn’t guarantee that drivers will be obeying the law. Before stepping into the street, check for crossing traffic just to be safe.
If there’s a traffic light, follow the traffic that’s moving in the same direction as you are. Stop for red or yellow lights, and go when the light is green. However, keep in mind that some cars may be turning right on red, so you still need to be careful. If the intersection has a stop sign, wait for any cars that are there to stop. Walk when it’s your turn, as long as you’ve made eye contact with any drivers who are waiting to go.
If there are stopped cars, it’s okay to step out to the edge of the cars if you know they aren’t moving. However, never, ever step into the street until you know for sure there are no cars coming. Keep in mind that cars can’t see you if you can’t see them.
Stand on the curb or just outside the entrance to the crosswalk. Don’t stand so close that you might get clipped by a car. You should still be out of the roadway while you’re waiting to cross.
If you think you might see something coming, stop and wait to see if it’s anything to worry about. It’s better to take your time and be safe.
For instance, check to your right again when you reach the center of the road, just in case a car is coming.
You might also wave or nod at them so you know they see you. Wait for them to wave or nod back. Some drivers may refuse to yield the right-of-way. While this is unfair, it’s more important for you to be safe than right. Don’t try to cross the street if someone is driving dangerously.
You might feel tempted to run, especially if cars are driving aggressively. However, it’s much more dangerous to run, as you might fall. It will be very difficult for cars to see you if you’re on the ground.
You might be using your phone’s GPS or could be listening to music. Even if this is the case, stop using your phone until you’re safely on the other side of the street.
For instance, a parent, guardian, crossing guard, neighbor, or teacher may help you cross. Even an older sibling can be a good crossing buddy if they’re old enough.
You can use the flashlight on your phone in a pinch. However, don’t look at your phone or play with your phone while you’re walking because it puts you in danger.
Look both ways to double check that other vehicles are obeying traffic signs before you go. Keep in mind that some cars may choose to run a red light as the traffic signal is turning. Play it safe even if it’s your turn to go. Generally, all drivers will stop at 4-way stops. The first person to reach the 4-way stop has the right of way. If drivers arrive at the stop at the same time, the driver to the right will proceed first. If there’s a 2-way stop, the driver who has a stop sign must wait for all traffic to clear before crossing. [15] X Research source
Cars and motorcycles will be most aware of you while you’re in the bike lane.
Collisions between a vehicle and a pedestrian can cause life-threatening injuries, so be very careful. Always stop for pedestrians even if you may have the right-of-way. Bicycles must follow all the same rules as cars, so remember to always stop. You may be faster than a pedestrian, but you still have to stop for them.
Pay careful attention to cars that may be turning onto the street you’re on, as well as cars coming up behind you. You have the right-of-way if a car is turning right-on-red into your lane. However, don’t risk your health and safety just because you’re in the right. Stop or move out of the way if someone is turning into your lane unsafely.
