Under Washington, D.C., law, pedestrians and drivers have rights and responsibilities to promote safety and prevent accidents. Understanding the right of way, knowing when to yield, and recognizing dangerous behaviors go a long way toward keeping everyone safe.
Here’s a closer look at what the law says about pedestrian rights in Washington, D.C., and who is responsible when pedestrian accidents occur.
What Are Washington, D.C.’s Pedestrian Laws?
D.C.’s pedestrian laws govern a broad range of driver and pedestrian behaviors, including:
- Use of crosswalks – In Washington, D.C., all intersections are considered crosswalks, regardless of whether they are marked as such. Pedestrians have the right of way in both unmarked and marked crosswalks and should always use crosswalks where available.
- Use of traffic signals – Pedestrians must follow traffic signals when available. They have the right of way with a “walk” signal, but they cannot start to cross when facing a “don’t walk” signal.
- Use of sidewalks – Pedestrians must walk on the sidewalk. When no sidewalks are available, they must walk as far on the left side of the road as possible, facing oncoming traffic.
- Right of way at signals – At a pedestrian crossing with no signals, drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians. If a pedestrian starts crossing on a walk signal, drivers must allow them to safely reach the other side before turning across the crosswalk.
- Right of way on sidewalks – Pedestrians have complete right of way on sidewalks. It’s illegal for drivers to park or drive on sidewalks, except when crossing to enter an alley or driveway, where they must yield to pedestrians.
- Right of way with turning vehicles – Pedestrians have the right of way over vehicles turning on a green light or right on red.
- Crossing diagonally – Crossing an intersection diagonally is only allowed if specifically authorized by traffic control devices.
- Rights of bicyclists – Bicyclists have the same rights as pedestrians when it comes to crosswalks and motorists. These rights also apply to those in motorized wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, bicyclists and motorized device operators must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks.
What D.C. Pedestrian Laws Apply to Drivers?
It’s essential for D.C. drivers to follow traffic laws to avoid hitting and injuring pedestrians. Some D.C. pedestrian laws that apply to drivers include:
- Yielding at crosswalks – Drivers must always yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections.
- No stopping in crosswalks – It is illegal for drivers to park or stop their vehicle in a crosswalk. This rule helps keep crosswalks clear and safe for pedestrians.
- Exercising caution at sidewalks – Drivers cannot drive on sidewalks except when it’s necessary to cross them while entering a driveway or alley. In these cases, they must stop and yield to any pedestrians.
- Turning right on red – When turning right at a red light, drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing the street.
- Exercising caution at green lights – Even when a vehicle has a green light to turn in either direction, drivers must continue to yield to any pedestrian who has begun crossing the road under a walk signal.
- Driving responsibly – Drivers have a responsibility to control their vehicle’s speed and avoid endangering pedestrians and cyclists. Extra caution is necessary when children, incapacitated, or impaired individuals are present.
Is Jaywalking Legal in Washington, D.C.?
Broadly speaking, it is illegal for pedestrians to cross the street outside of crosswalks or other marked crossings. It’s also a traffic violation for pedestrians to suddenly enter the street if it would cause a traffic hazard. Pedestrians can receive fines for jaywalking, and they face a much higher risk of injury or death if they cross the street outside of a crosswalk.
However, the law also says drivers must watch out for pedestrians and take reasonable steps to avoid hitting them. Drivers should slow down in areas with a high pedestrian presence and take extra care when driving at night or in other low-visibility conditions. Drivers can be liable in a civil case even if a pedestrian receives a fine for jaywalking, depending on the facts of the case. Contact our Washington DC pedestrian accident lawyer today.
What Are the Penalties for Breaking Pedestrian Laws in D.C.?
The Code of the District of Columbia says drivers who break the law and fail to yield to pedestrians when required can receive a fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both. Depending on the facts of the case, drivers could also face charges of reckless driving or other traffic offenses. These charges carry much harsher penalties, including up to a year in jail in some circumstances.
Pedestrians can also face fines for jaywalking or violating other pedestrian laws. However, the bigger risk pedestrians face for breaking the law is the heightened chance of severe injuries or death in a collision. In general, drivers face stiffer penalties for breaking D.C. pedestrian laws.
Can a Pedestrian Be At Fault for an Accident?
The liable party in a D.C. pedestrian accident depends on the circumstances. If the driver in the collision was speeding, intoxicated, or not yielding the right of way when required, they are likely liable for the crash. On the other hand, a pedestrian could be liable for a collision if they suddenly stepped into traffic and created a road hazard.
One thing to note in these cases is that while D.C. law generally prohibits people from recovering compensation after an accident if they contributed to their own injuries, the law includes an exception for pedestrians. The D.C. Code says that vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, can seek compensation even if they are partly to blame for a crash.
Contact a Washington, D.C., Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The Washington, D.C., pedestrian accident lawyers at Marks & Harrison are committed to advocating for pedestrian safety and will aggressively fight for the rights of pedestrians injured by negligent motorists. If you sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, we’re ready to fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable Washington, D.C., pedestrian accident attorney.
