What You Need to Know: Michigan Crosswalk Law

Do pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk?

Are drivers required to stop for pedestrians who are waiting on the curb of a crosswalk?

While many people assume that pedestrians have the right of way in these and other similar instances, Michigan crosswalk law is not clear-cut.

Because Michigan does not have a specific law governing the use of crosswalks, most municipalities abide by the Michigan Uniform Traffic Code. The portion of the code that addresses crosswalks states:

“When traffic-control signals are not in place or are not in operation, the driver of a vehicle shall yield the right of way, slowing down or stopping if need be to so yield, to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is on the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling…”

Understanding Michigan Crosswalk Law

What does this law mean for drivers and pedestrians? Essentially, it means that drivers are required to yield to pedestrians under these conditions:

• When the pedestrians and the vehicle are on the same side of the street.
• When people are walking lawfully in the crosswalk.

The statute does not require drivers to:

• Come to a full stop for pedestrians.
• Yield to pedestrians elsewhere in a crosswalk or street.
• Yield to pedestrians who are crossing a street illegally; such as ignoring a “don’t walk” signal or otherwise interfering with the lawful flow of traffic.
• Stop for pedestrians waiting on the curb of a crosswalk.

These rules do not apply in certain Michigan cities that have adopted their own pedestrian-friendly ordinances. In Ann Arbor, for example, motorists are required to stop for pedestrians within a crosswalk as well as those standing on the curb. Grand Rapids and Traverse City have also passed similar laws designed to make crosswalks safer for pedestrians and reduce fatalities.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

There were 158 pedestrian fatalities in 2017. While this number is slightly down (4%) from 2016,  in which 165 pedestrians died in motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian deaths have increased nationwide by 46% since 2009.

Here are some tips for safer walking, especially in crosswalks and busy intersections:

• Be aware that drivers in most Michigan cities are not required to come to a full stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, or yield to pedestrians waiting to step off the curb.
• If in doubt, wait until traffic is clear. Do not assume a driver knows the crosswalk Michigan law.
• Obey traffic signals. If a sign has started flashing “don’t walk,” stay on the curb.
• Cross only in designated crosswalks.
• Watch for cars making turns at intersections or roundabouts, even if you have a “walk” signal.
• Stay alert. Do not use a cell phone or wear headphones while crossing the street.
• Be especially careful crossing streets at night; wear light-colored clothing or reflective accessories if possible.

“Taking basic safety precautions can go a long way toward reducing pedestrian deaths and serious injuries,” said Mark Bernstein of The Sam Bernstein Law Firm, “But if you or a loved one is hurt in an accident involving a motor vehicle, call us immediately – before signing any insurance papers.”

Michigan traffic laws are complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.

Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free no-obligation consultation.

Sources:

• https://www.michigan.gov/documents/UTC_50201_7.pdf
• http://publications.michigantrafficcrashfacts.org/2017/At_a_Glance_2017.pdf