Myth: If there is no sidewalk, walk in the street in the direction of traffic
Pedestrians need to walk facing traffic and watch for vehicles to help drivers better see you.
Walk on the edge of the road as far away from traffic as possible.
Don’t assume drivers see you, especially in the early morning and evening when it's darker outside.
Myth: Pedestrians always have the right-of-way
When crossing outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk, pedestrians do not have the right of way and must yield to all vehicles.
Always use a marked crosswalk when available.
Pedestrians create a hazard by abruptly entering the path of a moving vehicle (also known as darting).
Myth: Pedestrians can ignore traffic in crosswalks
Pedestrians are required to obey the pedestrian signals, not the traffic lights; a solid red hand means you cannot cross.
Using the crosswalk button gives you more time to cross.
Don’t assume others have already pushed the crossing button.
Myth: Light color clothing helps drivers see you at night
White or bright colors do not make you more visible in low light.
Only reflective materials increase the chance of drivers being able to see you after dark.
Even when wearing reflective gear, always assume drivers will not see you.
Myth: If a car sees me, it can stop on time
In low light conditions, pedestrians overestimate how soon drivers can see them.
A driver needs time to think/react and a car needs distance for its brakes to bring it to a stop.
In most crashes, drivers had seen the pedestrians but could not stop in time.
Myth: If I step into a crosswalk, I don’t need to pay attention to traffic
Pedestrians and drivers are both now more distracted than ever.
Don’t let the right of way end up the wrong way; make sure drivers stop before you enter the crosswalk.
On multi-lane streets, ensure each lane of traffic stops before you proceed.
Utah Laws for Pedestrians
General Rules & Definition
Definition: A pedestrian is defined as anyone traveling on foot or in a wheelchair. (41-6a-102)
Obey Traffic Signals: Pedestrians are required to obey all traffic signs and signals that apply to them. (41-6a-1002)
Emergency Vehicles: Must yield right-of-way to emergency vehicles using lights or sirens. (41-6a-1004)
Railroad Crossings: Obey all railroad crossing warnings, do not go around lowered gates, and never loiter on tracks. (41-6a-1005)
Visually Impaired: Persons who are visually impaired must use extra caution at intersections. (41-6a-1007)
Crossing & Right-of-Way
Crossing Outside Crosswalks: When crossing outside a marked or unmarked crosswalk, you must yield to all vehicles. (41-6a-103)
Creating Hazards: You cannot create a hazard by abruptly entering the path of a vehicle (darting out). (41-6a-1002)
Jaywalking: Crossing at any point other than a marked crosswalk between two adjacent intersections with traffic lights is prohibited. (41-6a-1003)
Diagonal Crossing: Crossing an intersection diagonally is prohibited unless a specific signal allows it. (41-6a-1003)
Prohibited Crosswalks: Where posted, unmarked crosswalks may be designated as prohibited for pedestrian use. (41-6a-1010)
Understanding Pedestrian Signals
“Walk” Signal: You may proceed across the roadway. (41-6a-306)
Flashing “Don’t Walk” or Hand: You may not start crossing. If you are already in the crosswalk, complete your crossing safely. (41-6a-306)
Solid “Don’t Walk” or Hand: You may not enter the crosswalk. (41-6a-306)
Crosswalk Button: Pressing the crosswalk button ensures the system gives you adequate time to cross safely.
Sidewalks & Roadway Walking Rules
Use Sidewalks: You are required to use a sidewalk if one is present. (41-6a-1009)
No Sidewalk Available: Walk on the shoulder as far from traffic as possible. If there is no shoulder, walk on the left facing oncoming traffic. (41-6a-1009)
Freeways: Walking along a freeway is strictly prohibited except during emergencies. (41-6a-1009)
Impeding Traffic: You may not impede or block traffic on an interstate, freeway, or state highway. (41-6a-1009)
Under the Influence: Pedestrians under the influence of alcohol or drugs may only walk on sidewalks or sidewalk areas. (41-6a-1009)