Pennsylvania Laws for Pedestrians
It is usually intuitive, figuring out how to navigate traveling by foot. That is, doing so safely without getting hit by a car. But, the reality is that many pedestrians travel unaware of what the law says regarding what rules they are expected to abide by. This is a big issue because if a pedestrian is hit by a car, the pedestrian is likely going to sustain severe injuries that could also be fatal. Their damages, as a result, can be extensive. When it comes to taking legal action, violations of the law could speak to the pedestrian’s fault and, as a result, affect their ability to recover full compensation for their losses.
If you were injured as a pedestrian in Pennsylvania, then you need an experienced and resourceful attorney to evaluate your case and help you determine what your best options are for recovering financial compensation. Our Philadelphia pedestrian accident attorney at Monaco Law PC offers legal guidance and representation to victims of injury accidents.
What Rules Should Pedestrians in Pennsylvania Follow?
The rules that are in place are there to keep pedestrians safe. The law considers cars’ massive size and weight when compared to the human body and the destruction they can have on the body if the two collide. So, precautions and infrastructure are in place in many locations to give pedestrians the safest means to travel by foot next to traffic.
Drivers must be aware of their surroundings and be responsible for operating their automobiles. They have a duty to drive safely around pedestrians to minimize the chances of harming them. But pedestrians have a duty as well, to follow the rules so they can protect themselves too.
Pedestrian laws in Pennsylvania include:
- When crossing the street, if there is a crosswalk that should be used. When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk drivers must yield to them.
- Pedestrians should look both ways for oncoming traffic and never unexpectedly run out in front of cars and into the road.
- It is unlawful for a driver to pass a vehicle in front of them that has stopped in the road for a pedestrian to cross the street in a crosswalk.
- Pedestrians must be vigilant to other vehicles and yield to them when crossing the street if there is no crosswalk.
- Drivers and pedestrians must obey and abide by any working traffic control devices.
- Pedestrians should use a sidewalk when one is available.
Speak to a Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Injury Attorney Today
Your body is no match for a car, so it is important to follow the laws when walking around or entering a roadway. This keeps you safe and can also be a factor in an injury claim you may file if you are ever struck by a car.
After a pedestrian accident in Pennsylvania, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. Call our Pennsylvania personal injury attorney at Monaco Law PC to schedule a free initial consultation at (609) 277-3166 for our New Jersey office and (215) 546-3166 for our office in Pennsylvania.
We are a New Jersey and Pennsylvania personal injury law firm serving Atlantic County, Burlington County, Cape May County, Camden County, Cumberland County, Gloucester County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Ocean County, Salem County, and all of South Jersey.
Source:
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=75&div=0&chpt=35
