Each state in the U.S. has its own set of regulations governing pedestrian right-of-way. For example, California law states that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
Under Virginia crosswalk laws, pedestrians have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks and must use them when available. They must also obey traffic lights and pedestrian signals. Drivers and pedestrians alike have a legal duty to obey right-of-way laws in Virginia.
§ 46.2-928. Pedestrians not to use roadway except when necessary; keeping to left. Pedestrians shall not use the roadways for travel, except when necessary to do so because of the absence of sidewalks which are reasonably suitable and passable for their use.
All states except Maine and Michigan require vehicles to yield to a pedestrian who has entered an unmarked crosswalk. To gain the right-of-way in some parts of Canada, however, the pedestrian holds out his hand in a position much like that used to shake hands, and steps off the curb.
All states except Maine and Michigan require vehicles to yield to a pedestrian who has entered an unmarked crosswalk. To gain the right-of-way in some parts of Canada, however, the pedestrian holds out his hand in a position much like that used to shake hands, and steps off the curb.