Pedestrian Priority Rules: When to Yield?
Pedestrian priority is a cornerstone of road safety. Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing at zebra crossings, unmarked intersections, and near public transport stops.
Pedestrians have priority at marked crossings (zebra), unmarked intersections, bus/tram stops, and when exiting vehicles. Drivers must slow down and yield to prevent accidents.
- 1↓Marked Crossing (Zebra)Pedestrians have absolute priority.
- 2↓Unmarked IntersectionPedestrians crossing from sidewalk have priority.
- 3↓Bus/Tram StopYield to pedestrians boarding/exiting.
- 4Shared Pedestrian ZonesPedestrians first; drivers enter with caution.
Step-by-step worked examples
You approach a zebra crossing where a pedestrian is stepping into the road. What must you do?
Pedestrian on/entering marked crossing = absolute priority You must yield immediately Slow down, stop if needed, allow safe crossing.
A person exits a parked bus into your lane. Priority?
Person exiting bus = pedestrian in transit stop area Transit stop = pedestrian priority zone Yield and allow safe passage.
Unmarked intersection, pedestrian crossing from sidewalk into road. Your move?
Unmarked intersection, pedestrian crossing = priority No zebra stripe ≠ no pedestrian rights Yield to pedestrian.
Flashcards
Quick quiz
Q1.A pedestrian steps into a marked zebra crossing. You must…
Q2.At an unmarked intersection, a person crosses from the sidewalk. Priority?
Q3.A tram stop ahead has people boarding. Should you slow down?
Q4.A child runs across the street outside a crossing zone. What do you do?
The full card deck, worked steps and AI-tutor support for “Pedestrian Priority Rules: When to Yield?” are in Notek — study by hand before your exam.
Common mistakes
Thinking pedestrians only have priority at marked zebra crossings. — Correct: Pedestrians have priority at marked crossings, unmarked intersections, and transit stops.
Assuming a jaywalking pedestrian has no priority rights. — Correct: Drivers must still yield to avoid injury, even if pedestrian is at fault.
Speeding through a bus stop to avoid stopping. — Correct: Bus stops are pedestrian-priority zones; slow down and yield.
Honking at a pedestrian to 'move faster' at a crossing. — Correct: Pedestrians set their own pace; you yield and wait.
FAQ
When do pedestrians have priority over vehicles?
At marked zebra crossings, unmarked intersections, bus/tram stops, and when exiting vehicles or entering the road.
What is a pedestrian's right at an unmarked intersection?
Even without zebra stripes, pedestrians crossing from sidewalk to street have priority. Drivers must yield.
Do pedestrians at bus stops have priority?
Yes — passengers boarding and exiting public transport have priority. Drivers must slow down and yield.
What if a pedestrian crosses outside a crossing zone?
Drivers should still attempt to avoid collision. Your duty is to prevent injury, even if pedestrian is jaywalking.