If you’re a pedestrian or driver in Georgia, it’s important to know the state’s crosswalk laws to stay safe and avoid any legal issues. Here’s what you need to know:
Pedestrian Right of Way
In Georgia, pedestrians have the right of way in marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections. This means that if a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, drivers must yield to them and come to a complete stop if necessary. Even if a pedestrian is jaywalking or crossing in an unmarked area, drivers are required to exercise due care and avoid hitting them.
Crossing Signals
Pedestrian crossing signals are becoming more common in Georgia, and they operate similarly to traffic lights. If the pedestrian signal is green, it means it’s safe to cross, and drivers must yield to pedestrians. If the signal is flashing, pedestrians can still cross, but drivers must exercise caution and watch for pedestrians. When the signal is red, pedestrians must not enter the crosswalk.
Prohibited Actions
There are certain actions that are prohibited in Georgia when it comes to crosswalks. Drivers are not allowed to pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, nor are they allowed to overtake another vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk. Additionally, drivers must not block or park in a crosswalk or within 20 feet of a crosswalk on either side.
Penalties
Violating Georgia’s crosswalk laws can result in penalties for drivers. Fines can range from $100 to $1,000, and points can be added to a driver’s license. In some cases, drivers may even face criminal charges, particularly if they cause injury or death to a pedestrian.
Tips for Pedestrians
As a pedestrian, there are steps you can take to ensure your safety when crossing the street. Always use crosswalks when available, and make sure to look both ways before crossing. Even if you have the right of way, it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings and watch for any potential hazards. If you’re crossing at a signalized intersection, wait for the pedestrian signal to turn green before entering the crosswalk.
If you’re walking at night, wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight to make yourself more visible to drivers. It’s also a good idea to avoid distractions, such as using your phone or listening to music, while crossing the street.
Tips for Drivers
As a driver, it’s your responsibility to be aware of pedestrians and yield to them when necessary. When approaching an intersection, always be on the lookout for pedestrians in the crosswalk, even if they’re not immediately visible. If you see someone waiting to cross the street, slow down and come to a complete stop if necessary.
Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating, as these can cause you to miss important cues, such as a pedestrian crossing the street. It’s also important to avoid speeding and to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Georgia’s crosswalk laws are designed to keep pedestrians and drivers safe on the road. By following these laws and taking steps to ensure your safety, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. If you’re ever unsure about the laws or how to proceed in a certain situation, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and exercise extra care. Together, we can work towards creating a safer environment for everyone on Georgia’s roads.
As a law firm specializing in personal injury cases, including those involving crosswalk accidents, Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC can provide legal representation and guidance to those who have been injured in a crosswalk accident in Georgia.
If you’ve been involved in a crosswalk accident, it’s important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our team of experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights under Georgia law and determine the best course of action for your case.
We can help you gather evidence to support your case, including witness statements, police reports, and medical records. We can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.
Our firm has a track record of success in representing clients in crosswalk accident cases in Georgia. We understand the complexities of these cases and the legal issues involved, and we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized representation to each of our clients.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crosswalk accident in Georgia, contact Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.