When are you required to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk?

You are required to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk always, regardless of whether the crosswalk is marked. This is a crucial aspect of pedestrian safety and traffic regulations. The law gives priority to pedestrians in crosswalks to ensure they can cross streets safely.

Whether the crosswalk is marked with paint or signage does not diminish the obligation drivers have to yield to pedestrians. This requirement applies at both marked and unmarked crosswalks, as safety is paramount. Drivers should always be vigilant, looking for pedestrians and being prepared to stop, especially in areas near schools and high pedestrian traffic zones, where the chances of encountering individuals crossing the street are increased.

Other options – such as only stopping when the crosswalk is marked, stopping only during daylight hours, or stopping only when a pedestrian signals for you to stop – do not adequately address the legal obligation of drivers and disregard the importance of proactively ensuring pedestrian safety at all times.