Walking is a primary source of getting around in New York. Whether you are commuting to work, taking in the sights, or running or jogging to get some exercise, you have the right to feel safe in your surroundings. However, walking near busy streets can pose a risk for pedestrians when motorists do not uphold their duty of care and instead engage in careless or negligent behavior.
Understanding the traffic laws for Buffalo pedestrians can help those on foot better protect their safety and understand their legal rights if they are involved in an accident. When you or a loved one suffers harm due to a motorist’s negligence, reach out to a dedicated pedestrian accident attorney from Richmond Vona, LLC for a trusted advocate through the claims process.
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How Do Traffic Laws Apply to Pedestrians?
Whether you are operating a passenger vehicle,commercial truck, motorcycle, bicycle, or are simply walking, anyone who utilizes New York’s roads must follow and obey all designated traffic laws. These rules and regulations are in place to maintain safety and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, in the event that a pedestrian or motorist is involved in a collision, even if they did not cause the crash, they can be held partially liable for their own injuries and losses if it is found that they were not adhering to one or more traffic laws at the time of the event.
Traffic laws for pedestrians in Buffalo differ quite a bit from those assigned to those operating motor vehicles. For example, speeding, seatbelt usage, and merging are irrelevant to those on foot. Even traffic laws for cyclists are completely different from those for pedestrians as bicycles are treated more like motor vehicles under New York State vehicle and traffic law. Still, the rules that do apply to pedestrians regarding crosswalks, right of way, and control signals are vital to protecting their safety and are upheld by law enforcement to the same degree as they are for motorists. Failing to uphold these regulations can result in fines and citations.
Important Pedestrian Traffic Laws
Crosswalks are common in Buffalo and western New York in general. This is especially true in downtown and any other heavily populated areas in the major suburbs or on major roadways. New York State Traffic Law Section 1151 governs a pedestrian’s right of way in a crosswalk and is one of the most important regulations Buffalo pedestrians should be familiar with. A pedestrian has the right of way when crossing at a marked crosswalk as long as the signals indicate they should be doing so. It is also important to note that if the person on foot is already crossing when the sign changes to do not walk, they must finish their path and not stop or go back. At any intersection where there is only a yield sign, the pedestrians have the right of way there as well.
According to section 1152, a pedestrian crossing anywhere other than at a crosswalk or unmarked intersection crosswalk is to yield to traffic and only proceed when it is safe to do so. Section 1156 states that if there are no sidewalks, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road toward oncoming traffic. This makes it easier for them to see vehicles coming and avoid getting hit from behind.
Call to Discuss Buffalo Pedestrian Traffic Laws
When you sustain injuries in a pedestrian accident, you could face various financial, physical, and mental hardships. You do not have to go through this difficult time alone. Let the team at Richmond Vona, LLC take the lead in doing the legal work and ensuring you understand the role of any relevant traffic laws for Buffalo pedestrians while you focus on recovering and getting back on your feet. Call today for a free consultation.
With over 25 years of combined personal injury experience, our co-founding attorneys, John E. Richmond and Keith R. Vona, have helped injury victims and their family members recover more than $150 million in financial relief.
John E. Richmond
Co-Founding Member
As one of New York’s top personal injury attorneys, John E. Richmond understands that clients come first. With over a decade of experience representing plaintiffs, he knows how to hold negligent corporations and big insurance companies liable.
In his nearly 15 years in practice, Keith has been consistently recognized for his client service and record of results. He has been selected for inclusion in the New York Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list four times (2013 to 2016), an honor reserved for the top up-and-coming attorneys.
