Crossing the streets of Massachusetts can be frightening due to the rising number of injured individuals. Fortunately, the state has specific laws that protect pedestrians from potential harm, especially when they use crosswalks. As a pedestrian, understanding your rights and legal protections can help maintain safety during your commutes.
Your rights as a pedestrian in crosswalks
In New York, pedestrians have priority over the road. If a pedestrian is crossing a marked or unmarked crosswalk, drivers must:
- Slow down, stop and yield to allow pedestrians to cross the road.
- Yield for pedestrians who are 10 meters away from the other side of the road.
- Refrain from passing another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
- Enter a crosswalk when a pedestrian is present.
While drivers have a bigger responsibility on the road, pedestrians have a duty to exercise care in using public ways. This means you must abide by traffic rules, such as following traffic signals and avoiding jaywalking.
How accidents happen in crosswalks
Unfortunately, drivers tend to violate the crosswalk traffic law. This is one of the major reasons for the surging pedestrian accidents in the state. These often occur when drivers fail to yield or turn onto a street without checking the crosswalk for pedestrians.
Actions to maintain road safety and lower the risks of injuries
Consider these recommended actions to help you stay safe on the road:
- Avoid using your phone while crossing the road.
- Let the driver stop fully before crossing the road.
- Follow traffic signals.
- Make eye contact with the driver.
If a driver hits you while you are crossing, you may be eligible to file a damage claim. A personal injury lawyer can offer advice on the filing process and help build your case.