Crosswalk Safety in Pensacola: Laws for Drivers and Pedestrians

Crosswalks are intended to provide a safe place for pedestrians to cross roadways. In Florida, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians crossing the roadway within marked or unmarked crosswalks.

Pedestrians, however, should always proceed cautiously. They should not suddenly enter the roadway and should be mindful of crosswalks that are not clearly marked or whose signs are obstructed. One such crosswalk is located on Main Street between S. Tarragona and N. Alcaniz St. in Pensacola, Florida. There are several factors that may contribute to drivers failing to yield at this crosswalk—drivers could be distracted or speeding. The signs may not stand out because of branches from nearby trees.

Unfortunately, another common danger occurs when drivers “go around” vehicles that have stopped at a crosswalk. Doing so, however, is in violation of Florida statute 316.130 (9): “Whenever any vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of any other vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake and pass such stopped vehicle.”

Understanding the laws for both pedestrians and drivers at crosswalks can help prevent a tragedy and can make our community safer.

For a personal injury firm experienced in handling pedestrian cases in Pensacola, Milton, Gulf Breeze, Navarre, and surrounding areas, contact Phil Hall, P.A.at 850-760-2156 or visit AskALawyerFirst.com.