Section 9: Sharing the Road

This Section Covers

  • Sharing the Road With Pedestrians
    • Georgia's Law Concerning Pedestrians
    • Crosswalks
    • Respect Crosswalks
    • Blind Pedestrians
    • Always Remain Alert for Pedestrians When Driving
    • Turning Right at a Red Traffic Signal
    • Passing Stopped Cars in Lanes of Travel
    • Exiting and Entering Driveways
    • Vehicle Speed
  • Sharing the Road With Bicycles
    • Important Reminders Concerning Bicycle Riders
    • Arm Signals Used by Bicyclists
  • Sharing the Road With Motorcycles
    • Allow a Full Lane
    • Road Conditions
    • Intersections
    • Following Too Close
    • Passing and Being Passed
    • Partners on the Road
  • Sharing the Road With School Buses
  • Sharing the Road With Commercial Motor Vehicles
  • Tips for Trailering

Sharing the Road With Pedestrians

While there has been an increase of motor vehicles on our roads, the number of persons traveling by foot is also growing. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, pedestrians account for almost 15% of motor vehicles deaths. In 2016, Georgia had a 15% increase in pedestrian deaths. Distractions are believed to be a contributing factor. It is critical that pedestrians and motorists pay attention to safely share the road.

Georgia's Law Concerning Pedestrians

The driver of a vehicle shall stop and remain stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway within a crosswalk:

  • When the pedestrian is upon the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling, or when the pedestrian is approaching and is within one lane of the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling or onto which it is turning. "Half of the roadway" means all traffic lanes carrying traffic in one direction of travel;
  • When making a left or right turn at any intersection;
  • At stop signs, after coming to a complete stop and before proceeding;
  • At traffic signals, even when the light is green, if pedestrians are still in the crosswalk;
  • When entering a street or highway from an alley, driveway, or private road;
  • When approaching a blind person who is crossing a street or highway if he/she is carrying a white cane or being guided by a dog.