Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way in Arizona?

While the public generally understands that pedestrians have the right-of-way when sharing the road with motor vehicle and bicycle traffic, pedestrians also must follow specific right-of-way laws.

Here, we’ll discuss some of the guidelines that pedestrians must follow under Arizona state law.

What are the right-of-way laws for pedestrians in Arizona?

Although fewer right-of-way laws exist for pedestrians than for motorists, Arizona law expressly states that pedestrians may not cross an intersection or a road if doing so does not allow an approaching vehicle an adequate amount of time to stop.

Arizona law also prohibits pedestrians from “jaywalking.” This is when a pedestrian crosses a road without a specified crosswalk or pedestrian bridge or somewhere other than an intersection. Pedestrians should cross the street only at intersections, crosswalks, or designated pedestrian walkways, and only when a “walk” signal (if present) alerts them to do so.

How common are pedestrian accidents in Arizona?

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in Arizona. According to AZCentral.com, accidents involving motor vehicles killed 1,202 pedestrians from 2012 to 2019. In that period, the most pedestrian deaths happened in 2018, with 245 people losing their lives on Arizona roadways. During the same year, Arizona had the fourth-highest number of pedestrian fatalities in the nation, behind only Florida, Louisiana, and New Mexico.

When do pedestrians have to yield to drivers in Arizona?

Specific circumstances require pedestrians to yield to drivers. At intersections, pedestrians must wait to cross until the light turns green. A pedestrian crossing an intersection should never cross in front of an approaching vehicle.

Drivers must always yield to pedestrians, even when pedestrians aren’t following the rules. This applies to pedestrians who are crossing at designated crosswalks, as well as unmarked crossings. Drivers should also come to a complete stop before reaching a crosswalk at an intersection with a stop sign or red light, leaving the crosswalk open for pedestrians.

Can pedestrians in Arizona walk along the side of the road?

As long as they are using a sidewalk, Arizona pedestrians can walk along the side of the road. If a sidewalk exists, Arizona law requires pedestrians to use it.

If a pedestrian is walking along a road with no sidewalk, or the sidewalk abruptly ends, then a pedestrian is legally allowed to walk on the actual road, as long as they keep to the far shoulder. They also must walk in the opposite direction of flowing traffic so that oncoming motorists have the best possible view of pedestrians, and vice versa.

Runners should follow the same rules and run or jog facing oncoming traffic.

What can pedestrians do to avoid collisions with motor vehicle drivers in AZ?

Pedestrians should keep in mind that crossing a roadway, even when following all the rules, doesn’t guarantee their safety. Pedestrians should always wait for the white “walk” signal to permit them to walk if a signal is present at the intersection. Even when the walk signal has alerted them to cross, walkers should ensure all vehicles are fully stopped before stepping into the road. There’s always a chance that a driver may be distracted and may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting the pedestrian.

Pedestrians should be especially aware of turning vehicles. Drivers who are turning may be focused on the road ahead of them rather than on the road they are about to turn onto.

If the “orange hand” has begun to flash on a walk signal, pedestrians should not attempt to cross the road.

Even when walking on the sidewalk, pedestrians should be aware of cars pulling into or backing out of driveways. This is especially true for children, who drivers may not notice. This is also critical in parking lots, where drivers may back out of parking spots without noticing pedestrians behind them. Walking along the perimeter of a parking lot can be safer than walking behind vehicles.

Pedestrians on roadways where there is no sidewalk should walk on the far shoulder in the direction of oncoming traffic. They should preferably wear bright clothing, so they are more visible to drivers. Runners should not wear headphones while running along a roadway since it is crucial to hear oncoming traffic.

Are cyclists considered pedestrians in Arizona?

It’s complicated. While some motorized “vehicles” like automated wheelchairs are considered pedestrians, bicycles, scooters, and other similar vehicles are considered a kind of hybrid of “pedestrian” and “driver” under Arizona law. If a cyclist is biking on a sidewalk or in a crosswalk, they are considered a pedestrian. If a cyclist is biking on the road, their bike is considered a vehicle.

It is illegal for cyclists to ride on the sidewalk in some states, but in Arizona, cyclists are allowed to unless signage dictates otherwise or local ordinances forbid it. For example, the city of Tucson prohibits cycling on any sidewalks.

In general, cyclists are also legally allowed to ride in either direction in crosswalks or on sidewalks, no matter which side of the road they are on. Arizona law only dictates which direction bikes must ride in if they are on the road, not on the sidewalk.

When riding on the road, cyclists should obey all of the same traffic laws that motorists do. All bikers must use hand signals to alert drivers of their intentions at intersections or while changing lanes. Unless turning, cyclists should always ride on the right side of the road, nearest to the curb.

When do you need a pedestrian accident lawyer?

If you suffered injuries while walking in Arizona, turn to Mushkatel, Robbins & Becker P.L.L.C. for help. We have three conveniently located offices in Sun City, Scottsdale, and Surprise to serve our clients. Our consultations are 100% free. Reach out to us by phone or online to speak with one of our top pedestrian accident lawyers today.