What Are the Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws in Arizona?

arizona right of way laws

What Are the Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws in Arizona?

If you walk to work or go for regular jogs, your path likely requires crossing many roads. Pedestrians have to follow certain road rules for their own safety, just like cyclists and drivers. Following crosswalk laws reduces your chances of a car hitting you while you’re walking. The personal injury attorneys at Van Norman Law are here to help you understand the right of way laws in Arizona, so you can stay safe while walking.  

Arizona Right of Way Laws: Crosswalks

According to Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 28-101, the term “pedestrian” refers to any person who is on foot, as well as anyone using a manual or motorized (self-propelled) wheelchair. 

Under ARS 28-646, it is illegal for pedestrians to cross a marked or unmarked crosswalk when the designated signal says or symbolizes “don’t walk.” When the signal displays the word or symbol for “walk,” pedestrians have the right of way to cross in the direction of the signal. 

According to ARS 28-792, the driver of a motor vehicle must slow down or stop in order to yield to a pedestrian crossing within a crosswalk. ARS 28-792 also states that if a car stops at a crosswalk to let pedestrians cross, it is illegal for any cars behind it to try and pass the stopped vehicle. 

However, the pedestrian must give an approaching driver enough time to stop before they begin crossing. It is illegal to loiter or delay crossing the road after traffic has stopped and yielded the right of way.

Arizona Right of Way Laws: Jaywalking

ARS 28-793 covers Arizona’s rules for jaywalking, which state:

  • Pedestrians crossing the road outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk must yield the right of way to all motor vehicles. 
  • If a pedestrian crosses the road where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing has been provided, they must yield the right of way to all motor vehicles. 
  • When at an intersection with active traffic controls, it is illegal for pedestrians to cross the road anywhere except for the designated crosswalk. 

Arizona Right of Way Laws: Sidewalks

According to Arizona law, pedestrians must follow certain rules when it comes to sidewalks as well. ARS 28-796 states:

  • It is illegal to walk along or on a road if adjacent sidewalks are provided.
  • If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians walking on/along the road must walk on the left side, facing oncoming traffic.
  • It is illegal to solicit a ride from a driver while standing on the road. However, it is legal to do so from the curb or a sidewalk. 

When is a pedestrian at fault for an accident?

Although pedestrian accidents on roadways are often a result of distracted driving or driving under the influence, there are circumstances where the driver isn’t at fault. A pedestrian may be at fault for an accident if they fail to follow the right of way laws. Pedestrians can also be at fault for accidents when intoxicated or distracted by cell phone use while crossing the road. 

Due to comparative negligence laws in Arizona, an at-fault pedestrian could still be entitled to compensation after an accident. However, this only applies if the driver was negligent and also broke traffic laws. 

For example, you may not be entitled to damages if you step into the road so suddenly that it is impossible for the driver to stop, resulting in the driver hitting you. On the other hand, you could be entitled to damages in the same situation if the driver was intoxicated or distracted during the accident. 

Scottsdale Personal Injury Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can occur whether or not you follow the right of way laws. If a pedestrian accident caused your injury, Van Norman Law in Arizona can help you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by calling 480-481-0616 today. 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/24/2022). Photo by Gunnar Madlung on Unsplash