The Evolution Of Pedestrian Safety Laws: A Historical Perspective

Pedestrian safety laws have been in place for some time, with various state and local governments adopting the Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC), which outlines the basic traffic laws governing interactions between pedestrians and motor vehicles. The UVC grants pedestrians the right of way in crosswalks when traffic-control signals are not in place or are not operational, requiring drivers to yield or stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely. Additionally, the UVC addresses the relationship between vehicles and pedestrians at transit stops and requires drivers to stop or slow down to create more pedestrian-friendly conditions. While the UVC provides a foundation, states and local transportation agencies play a crucial role in improving the safety of transportation infrastructure, including for vulnerable road users like pedestrians. This includes implementing safety laws, regulations, and educational initiatives to protect pedestrians and reduce injuries and fatalities.

Pedestrian safety laws in the US

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has made improving pedestrian safety a top priority. In 2022, it adopted a comprehensive National Roadway Safety Strategy to bring the number of roadway deaths down to zero. In October of each year, the DOT celebrates National Pedestrian Safety Month, which acknowledges efforts to address pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries.

In 2020, 6,516 pedestrians were killed in the United States, with a projected increase of 13% in 2021. In 2022, 7,522 pedestrians were killed and more than 67,000 injured nationwide. The DOT has launched several initiatives and programs to improve pedestrian safety, including the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which is providing $5 billion in investments over five years to plan and implement safe active transportation infrastructure.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides stewardship over the construction, maintenance, and preservation of the nation's highways, bridges, and tunnels. It offers financial and technical assistance to state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations, and coordinates with them to promote and facilitate increased use of non-motorized transportation. The FHWA also provides guidance on safe roadway design standards and can use funding to build and improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) works to save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes through education, research, safety standards, and enforcement activities. NHTSA has developed safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians to help keep pedestrians safe. It also houses the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), which provides yearly data on fatal injuries suffered in motor vehicle traffic crashes, including those involving pedestrians.

In May 2023, the NHTSA proposed updates to its New Car Assessment Program to include new pedestrian crashworthiness tests that measure how well vehicles protect those outside the vehicle. These tests will provide consumers with crucial safety information and help reduce pedestrian fatalities. The NHTSA is also developing a proposed rule to set safety standards for automatic emergency braking, including pedestrian automatic emergency braking, for newly manufactured light vehicles.

Pedestrian safety laws in Washington

Washington State has a record for pedestrian safety that compares favourably to many other states, but collisions do still happen. Here is a summary of pedestrian safety laws in Washington:

Traffic Signals

Both pedestrians and drivers must obey traffic signals and traffic control devices unless otherwise directed by a traffic or police officer (RCW 46.61.050). This law aims to create a controlled environment that gives both pedestrians and drivers a safe space.

Yielding to Vehicles

Pedestrians crossing a roadway outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection must yield the right of way to all vehicles on the road (RCW 46.61.240).

Due Care by Drivers

Drivers must exercise due care when operating their vehicles to avoid colliding with pedestrians or bicyclists (RCW 46.61.245). They must give a warning by sounding the horn when necessary.

Stopping for Pedestrians at Intersections

Drivers must stop at intersections to allow pedestrians and bicycles to cross the road within a marked or unmarked crosswalk (RCW 46.61.235). All intersections are legal crossings for pedestrians, with very few exceptions, such as where an official sign prohibits crossing or between adjacent signalized intersections (RCW 46.61.240).

Disabled Pedestrians

Drivers must take all necessary precautions to avoid injuring a pedestrian using a white cane, service animal, or wheelchair, and they must always yield to these pedestrians in crosswalks (RCW 70.84.040).

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Pedestrians should use sidewalks when they are available. If there are no sidewalks, they should walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder, facing traffic (RCW 46.61.250). They should also be aware of vehicles around them and take extra care when crossing the road, using marked crosswalks and signalized intersections where possible.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Drivers must stop for pedestrians at intersections, whether marked or unmarked, and it is illegal to pass another vehicle that is stopped for a pedestrian. They should also avoid driving while impaired or sleep-deprived, as this reduces their ability to see, decide, and react in time.

Pedestrian safety laws in North Carolina

In North Carolina, pedestrian deaths are on the rise, with 29 pedestrians killed in Raleigh in 2022. State laws are in place to protect both pedestrians and drivers, with the N.C. Department of Transportation implementing the Watch For Me NC program to reduce pedestrian and bicycle injuries and deaths.

In North Carolina, pedestrians do not always have the right of way. State law requires pedestrians to yield to vehicles when not at an intersection or marked crosswalk. At crosswalks with pedestrian signals, pedestrians must obey the "Walk" and "Don't Walk" signs, just as drivers must obey traffic lights.

Drivers must yield to pedestrians at marked crossings and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, except where there is a traffic or pedestrian signal. Additionally, drivers making right or left turns must allow pedestrians to cross first, unless they are prohibited from crossing.

Other Rules for Drivers

• Drivers must stop for pedestrians at stop signs and flashing red lights and yield at flashing yellow lights.
• State law prohibits drivers from passing vehicles stopped for pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Drivers must make sure the road is clear of pedestrians before pulling forward or backing up.
• Drivers must use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as at night or in bad weather.
• Drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be people crossing that you can't see.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street, in school zones, and in neighbourhoods with children.
• Be extra cautious when backing up, as pedestrians can move into your path.

Other Rules for Pedestrians

• Pedestrians are required to use marked crosswalks when they are provided.
• It is unlawful to cross a street outside a marked crosswalk if there is a signalized intersection nearby.
• When no sidewalk is available, pedestrians should walk to the far left edge of the road, facing traffic.
• Be predictable, follow the rules, and obey signs and signals.
• Avoid distractions, such as electronic devices, that take your eyes and ears off the road.
• When no crosswalk or intersection is available, locate a well-lit area with a clear view of traffic and wait for a safe gap to cross.
• Never assume a driver sees you; make eye contact with approaching drivers to ensure you are seen.
• Be visible by wearing bright clothing during the day and reflective materials or carrying a flashlight at night.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they impair your abilities and judgment.

Roads Prohibited to Pedestrians and Cyclists in North Carolina

The only roads legally prohibited to pedestrians and cyclists in North Carolina are fully controlled-access highways, or freeways. However, adjacent properties can be accessed via other roads that are not fully controlled-access, and therefore open to pedestrians and cyclists.

Pedestrian safety laws in the EU

Pedestrian safety is a key concern for the European Union, which has implemented a range of laws and regulations to protect pedestrians and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities. The EU aims to reduce the number of deaths and injuries to pedestrians and cyclists involved in accidents with motor vehicles. According to statistics, around 8,000 pedestrians and cyclists are killed, and 300,000 are injured in road accidents each year. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable road users, and they account for 21% of all traffic fatalities in the EU, with the majority being aged 65 or older.

To address this issue, the EU has introduced regulations such as Regulation (EC) No 78/2009, which sets requirements for the construction and operation of motor vehicles to enhance the protection of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. This regulation applies to specific categories of motor vehicles, including passenger cars and light goods vehicles, and it mandates the use of type-approved brake assist systems, among other safety features. The EU has also adopted Directive 2010/40/EU, which focuses on the deployment of intelligent transport systems to improve road safety.

In addition to regulations, the EU has also funded projects that aim to protect pedestrians, such as the Watch-over system, which uses short-range sensors to detect when a car is about to hit a pedestrian, and projects like APROSYS and PREVENT, which study how changes to vehicle design can reduce harm to pedestrians. The EU has also set out traffic rules and recommendations for pedestrians, including the use of pavements or verges where available, walking against the direction of traffic when on the road, and exercising care when crossing carriageways.

The European Commission has made it a priority to reduce road deaths and injuries, setting a target to reduce road deaths by 50% by 2010. To achieve this, the Commission has engaged in discussions with motor vehicle manufacturers, resulting in pledges to introduce measures aimed at improving pedestrian safety. The Commission has also proposed regulations combining passive requirements with active measures, such as the use of brake-assist systems. These regulations outline the obligations of manufacturers, member state authorities, and provide detailed rules for implementation.

Overall, the EU has taken a comprehensive approach to pedestrian safety, including legislation, funding for innovative projects, and public safety recommendations, with the ultimate goal of creating safer roads for all.

Historical pedestrian safety laws

The recognition of an individual's basic right to travel on shared roads dates back thousands of years. Roads evolved from unimproved footpaths and trails over five thousand years ago, with some roads constructed and maintained by governments. The concept of the right of way originated in English law in the 12th century, with the Tractatus of Glanvil declaring the legal status of the king's highway and the public's right to travel upon it.

Roman property laws from the second century BC established a hierarchy of easements that prioritised pedestrian access over wagon passage. While Roman roads were of strategic military importance, they were public ways permitted to all. Any act to block or hinder travel upon public roads was prohibited.

In the late 1800s, the emergence of bicycles caused controversy, with some non-bicyclists considering them a nuisance. Cities and states enacted bans on bicycle travel, but higher courts eventually protected the right to travel by bicycle on public roads.

The widespread adoption of automobiles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries led to a staggering number of crash fatalities and injuries for both pedestrians and vehicle operators. In response, cities introduced new regulations on motoring, including licensing requirements and outright bans. As motoring's death toll continued to rise, governments introduced stronger safety measures, and by 1920, no court found the right to travel sufficient to strike down driver's license requirements.

Today, pedestrian safety laws continue to evolve, with organisations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) raising awareness about dangers to pedestrians and providing safety tips.

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