How are crosswalks defined and used?
Washington State law states that crosswalks exist at all intersections except where prohibited by posted signs. At any crosswalk (marked or unmarked) drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians.Crosswalks are marked to encourage pedestrians to use a particular crossing. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) states: “Crosswalk markings should not be used indiscriminately.” Studies conducted on the relative safety of crosswalks support minimal installation of marked crosswalks.The City of San Diego studied intersections at which there were both marked and unmarked crosswalks. The results were surprising. Although 2‑1/2 times as many people used the marked crosswalks, 6 times as many accidents occurred in the marked crosswalks. Such research suggests that a marked crosswalk can give pedestrians a false sense of security. At all crosswalks, both unmarked and marked, it is the pedestrian’s responsibility to be cautious and alert while crossing.
Washington State law states that crosswalks exist at all intersections except where prohibited by posted signs. At any crosswalk (marked or unmarked) drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians. Crosswalks are marked to encourage pedestrians to use a particular crossing. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) states: “Crosswalk markings should not be used indiscriminately.” Studies conducted on the relative safety of crosswalks support minimal installation of marked crosswalks. The City of San Diego studied intersections at which there were both marked and unmarked crosswalks. The results were surprising. Although 2‑1/2 times as many people used the marked crosswalks, 6 times as many accidents occurred in the marked crosswalks. Such research suggests that a marked crosswalk can give pedestrians a false sense of security. At all crosswalks, both unmarked and marked, it is the pedestrian’s responsibility to be cautious and alert while crossing. Stop Signs A stop sig
