Laws Pertaining to Pedestrians
Pursuant to the Texas Transportation Code Chapter 552, pedestrians generally have the right of way if they are in crosswalks. This may mean that motorists should yield to a pedestrian and allow them to cross if in a designated crosswalk. If the crosswalk has right of way signals, the pedestrian typically should obey the commands of the signals. For example, the pedestrian may want to follow the commands of the traffic light by only crossing the road if there is a walking symbol displayed.
However, if a pedestrian jaywalks, they typically do not have the right of way and should refrain from crossing when there is traffic coming. If a person violates this rule, it could lead to them causing an accident or experiencing significant injuries from being struck by a vehicle. Someone who is hit by a car or a truck as a pedestrian often faces the possibility of death due to the severity of their injuries. Ideally, if there is a sidewalk available and accessible, a person should use the sidewalk instead of walking on the roadway. However, if there is no sidewalk available, they may walk in the road but should typically walk on the left side of the roadway, facing traffic, on the shoulder of the road.
Motorists are encouraged to stay alert to pedestrians who are walking in these designated areas to avoid causing accidents. Both pedestrians and drivers should exercise caution while on the roads, as any negligence could contribute to a pedestrian accident.