Pedestrian safety

Pedestrians encounter danger any time they walk on or near a roadway. Protect yourself and stay alert around vehicles.

What can pedestrians do to stay safe?

• Always use sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Always use crosswalks. Look left, then right, then left again before crossing.
• Yield to vehicles.
• Don’t assume traffic will stop for you.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Walk to the right in crosswalks to allow others to pass on your left.
• Look left and right before exiting a bus.
• Be aware that parked cars or other obstacles can block your view of oncoming traffic.
• Exit your car on the curb side of the street if possible.

What if there is no crosswalk?

• Check for a crosswalk further up or down the street.
• Don't jaywalk. If you're hit while jaywalking, the driver may not be liable, and insurance may not cover your injuries.

What can drivers do to keep pedestrians safe?

• Always stop for pedestrians.
• Reduce your speed when approaching crosswalks.
• Stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians when turning.
• Be careful when passing buses or stopped vehicles.
• Stay alert and put your phone away. Pedestrians may enter your path suddenly.
• Obey the speed limit and drive to conditions.

What are the laws?

• Learn about Texas pedestrian laws.

Safety campaign

• See our Pedestrian Safety Campaign.