Tips for Sharing the Road with Pedestrians and Cyclists

Every day, our roads are filled with vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, each with their own rights and responsibilities. Even a routine commute can turn dangerous when road users fail to respect each other. While cars and trucks may dominate the streets, pedestrians and cyclists have an equal right to travel safely.

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, and the law protects them for a reason. Failing to respect pedestrian right of way not only puts lives at risk but can also result in steep fines, license points, and liability in the event of an accident. Drivers should always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Even when a driver is in a hurry, the pedestrian right of way comes first.

• At Intersections: In most cases, pedestrians crossing at intersections, whether or not there is a traffic signal, have the right of way. Drivers must stop and allow them to cross safely.
• When Turning: Drivers making right or left turns should watch carefully for people crossing the street. A turning vehicle can easily strike a pedestrian if the driver is not paying attention.
• School Zones and Neighborhoods: Areas with heavy foot traffic require extra caution. Children may dart into the street unexpectedly, so slowing down is critical.

Cyclists are legally considered vehicles in most states, which means they have the right to use the road just like cars and trucks. Unfortunately, many collisions occur because drivers fail to give bicycles enough space or overlook them altogether.

• Give Space: When passing a cyclist, always allow at least three feet of clearance. This buffer helps prevent accidents caused by sudden swerves, doors opening from parked cars, or uneven road surfaces.
• Check Blind Spots: Bikes are smaller than cars and can be easily hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. Drivers should check mirrors carefully before changing lanes or turning.
• Respect Bike Lanes: Never drive or park in designated bike lanes. These lanes exist to give cyclists safe passage and should remain clear.
• At Intersections: Just like with pedestrians, intersections are especially dangerous for cyclists. Drivers should always look for bikes when turning or merging.

While drivers carry the greatest responsibility to operate safely, pedestrians and cyclists can also take steps to protect themselves. Road safety is a two-way street – literally. When drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists all share responsibility, the road becomes safer for everyone.

• Pedestrians:
  • Always use crosswalks.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
  • Avoid distractions like phones or headphones.
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing at night.
• Cyclists:
  • Obey traffic signals and stop signs.
  • Ride with traffic, not against it.
  • Use hand signals to indicate turns.
  • Equip your bike with lights and reflectors after dark.
  • Always wear a helmet.

Every year, thousands of pedestrians and cyclists are injured or killed in preventable accidents. Many of these crashes occur simply because someone failed to yield the pedestrian right of way or ignored the rules for sharing the road with bikes. 

Accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists can carry severe legal consequences for drivers. Failing to yield or ignoring bike rules may result in traffic citations, fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges in cases of reckless or impaired driving. Civil liability in personal injury lawsuits is also possible.

For victims, proving fault can be challenging. Insurance companies may argue that a pedestrian was distracted or a cyclist failed to signal. In these cases, witness statements, traffic cameras, and accident reconstructions are often critical to building a strong case.

Whether you’re driving, walking, or biking, your actions affect everyone’s safety. Respecting pedestrians’ right of way and giving cyclists their space can save lives. At Jack Bailey Law Corporation, we help accident victims pursue the compensation they need, but our ultimate goal is prevention, educating the community so fewer families face these hardships.