Traffic Laws for Grapevine Pedestrians

Collisions between pedestrians and motor vehicles can happen at any time in Grapevine. Unfortunately, these accidents typically result in debilitating injuries due to the lack of physical protection pedestrians have.

Although the state has adopted several laws and regulations to protect pedestrians from dangerous drivers, not all motorists take proper steps to avoid colliding with people on foot. If you were hurt in a crash, a seasoned attorney could advise you on how traffic laws for Grapevine pedestrians might impact your case. Contact a skilled pedestrian crash attorney today to learn more.

Laws Protecting Pedestrians in Grapevine

According to Texas Transportation Code, motorists must yield to pedestrians walking on the road in specific situations. In addition, the code includes many rights that pedestrians are entitled to when entering or traveling along a roadway.

Local pedestrian laws are essential for different reasons. For example, these regulations provide motorists with clear guidelines to prevent fatal accidents. Violating these traffic laws could be used as evidence of negligence in an injury claim, significantly impacting an injured person’s case.

Generally, pedestrians have the right-of-way when entering marked crosswalks in Grapevine. The same is true for pedestrians crossing intersections with “Walk” or “Don’t Walk” signs. In either situation, drivers must allow pedestrians to cross the street. Walkers and joggers typically have the right-of-way in unmarked intersections as well. Even if there is no traffic control device directing a pedestrian when to walk, the law requires vehicles to stop for people on foot.

Motorists must always keep a careful eye out for pedestrians. Drivers are required to watch for pedestrians approaching marked intersections to ensure they avoid striking them as they enter the road.

Does a Pedestrian Always Have the Right-of-Way?

In most situations where vehicles collide with people on foot, the pedestrian had the right of way. However, pedestrians do not always have the right-of-way. Like most accident cases, the facts determine who is entitled to the road.

Usually, pedestrians are required to yield to motorists. For example, if a pedestrian faces a “Don’t Walk” or “Wait” sign at an intersection, the person on foot must yield to vehicles until the light changes. Likewise, pedestrians should avoid entering roads without lights or crosswalks.

Pedestrians in Grapevine are expected to act rationally and safely when crossing the street. Walkers and joggers should use pedestrian tunnels or overhead crossings near major roadways or highways to avoid potential accidents when possible. A pedestrian must also avoid stepping off a curb if it could lead to an accident—even if they step into a crosswalk.

A knowledgeable lawyer could review relevant state laws to determine if a pedestrian had the right-of-way and collect valuable evidence that benefits an injured person’s claim.

Talk to an Attorney About Traffic Laws for Grapevine Pedestrians

Pedestrian accidents are dangerous despite the prevalence of traffic laws. Unfortunately, these incidents can cause debilitating injuries for those on foot. In addition, these collisions are often preventable, which can add to an injured person’s frustration.

If you were hit by a driver while walking on foot, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the negligent motorist. To learn more about traffic laws for Grapevine pedestrians, reach out to an attorney today for a private consultation.