Been a while since you took your driver’s license test? Us, too.
We thought we’d take a moment to refresh everyone on a key rule of the road – ‘granting pedestrians the right of way’ – which, in plain language, means stopping for people when they’re crossing the street. Over the past 5 years, failing to yield has contributed to 12% of Seattle’s serious and fatal crashes.
Crosswalks of all kinds in Capitol Hill.
Most people know they should stop for people when they’re in a crosswalk. But, what exactly is a crosswalk? They come in unmarked and marked versions, though you’re probably more familiar with the latter. Last year, we made this little video highlighting that every intersection is a legal crossing, whether it’s marked or not. (Don’t just take our word for it, check out state and city laws.)
So, if you’re behind the wheel, make sure to stop for people walking. Not just at marked crossings, but at all intersections. Following the rules of the road is one way each of us can help reach Seattle’s Vision Zero goal of ending traffic deaths and serious injuries on city streets by 2030.