Individuals who drive in New York know well how difficult it can be to negotiate the busy streets and intersections of the city. Not only do many cars, trucks, and other automobiles clog the roadways with traffic, but drivers must also move around bicyclists and pedestrians. In the chaos of driving, it can be confusing for drivers to remember just when they have the right of way when it comes to encountering pedestrians.

Pursuant to Title VII of the Laws of New York, drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Yielding means that a driver must either slow down or stop depending upon which action is appropriate given the circumstances. However, in signal-controlled intersections, pedestrians must follow their signals and yield to vehicles when they have the right of way.

Pedestrians who choose not to use pedestrian bridges or tunnels to cross intersections must yield to vehicle traffic, and pedestrians are not permitted to enter intersections erratically when doing so would make it difficult for vehicles to avoid them. Drivers should remember, though, that they may not overtake stopped cars that are waiting for pedestrians to cross the street; drivers who engage in this practice may be ticketed for traffic violations.

Failing to yield to a pedestrian’s right of way can be an expensive legal problem. Drivers who are ticketed for this and other traffic violations can get legal help to protect their driving privileges. Attorneys who offer traffic defense services may be available to provide them with case-specific support.