Ann Arbor's Law (Chapter 126:10:148a, Pedestrians crossing streets): When traffic-control signals are not in place or are not in operation, the driver of a vehicle shall stop and yield the right-of-way to every pedestrian approaching or within a crosswalk.
What it means: If you're driving a vehicle (car, bus, truck, delivery van, bike) and you see someone trying to cross the street at a crosswalk or already crossing the street, STOP. Wait until they're across the street and proceed.
The fine for not following the law: $100.
Are you sure you can identify a crosswalk?
Here's the legal definition provided in the Motor Vehicle Code (MVC):
(a) That part of a roadway at an intersection included within the connections of the lateral lines of the sidewalks on opposite sides of the highway measured from the curbs, or in the absence of curbs from the edges of the traversable highway. (b) Any portion of a highway at an intersection or elsewhere distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface.
Still confused, we certainly were. Hopefully, this helps...
A crosswalk is the part of the roadway set aside for pedestrian traffic. Most intersections have a pedestrian crosswalk whether or not lines are painted on the street. Most crosswalks are located at corners, but they can also be located in the middle of the block. Before turning a corner, watch for people about to cross the street. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks.
Signage, white paint on the roadway, & sometimes refuge islands are engineering treatments that will help you to identify a marked crosswalk. The pictures below demonstrate some common elements present at crosswalks. Once you get in the habit of looking for crosswalks, you'll find them fairly easy to spot. Remember, it's the presence of a pedestrian at a crosswalk that triggers the need for you to STOP.
Crosswalks are often marked with white lines. Signage, like those pictured below, will be installed at most marked crosswalks in 2011. Most often, crosswalks in residential areas are not marked.
And Ann Arbor now has one crosswalk that is aided by the addition of a HAWK signal. Flashing lights to warn motorists that pedestrians may be crossing. A video produced by MDOT, explains how it works: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7x_4Wu8EnQ
Feeling frustrated, about crosswalk design in Ann Arbor, so are we. We want crosswalks to be clearly marked for motoirsts and accessible and safe to use for pedestrians. WBWC is encouraging the City of Ann Arbor to develop strong crosswalk design guidelines and make investments at high-priority crosswalks. Send us a note if you want to get involved or know more about this project: info @ wbwc.org
Comments
With regards to cyclists, if a person is on their bike they are considered a vehicle and you are not required to stop for them. If they're walking their bike, kids might often do this, then they are considered a pedestrian.
I think a few of the designated crosswalks, like the one on Washtenaw near the county rec center must have better signage mostly because it sits on that hill and is a 5 lane crossing.
I also agree with Ed in previous post. I was almost in an accident on plymouth Rd. by the Islamic Center.
One other question, what about cycalists? I stopped for a person on a bike in a refuge island, but aren't cyclists considered to be using a vehicle?
With regards to pedestrian distraction, unfortunately we as humans are flawed. We see inattentive or distracted behavior from motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike. We will certainly continue to advocate for education for all road users. But in spite of our flaws, we still believe that strong laws that make our streets accessible and safe for everyone are vital for a healthy, livable community.
In the meantime, you should still stop. But there are actions you can take to make it safer for both you and the pedestrian. 1) Slow gradually, to allow the car behind you to see that you are stopping and avoid being rear-ended. 2) Play crossing guard. As a driver, you can see traffic to your left better with your side mirror than the pedestrian can. Make eye contact with the pedestrian and hold up your hand, if necessary, to alert the pedestrian that it's not yet safe to cross. Put your hand down when the car next to you comes to a complete stop. Chances are a car will stop quite quickly, though the first couple of cars may whizz by, but compliance generally happens fairly quickly when one driver stops. 3) If traffic allows, stop in lane furthest from pedestrian. Traffic does not generally allow for this, but if possible switch lanes and stop in the furthest lane from the pedestrian, allowing the pedestrian a good view of oncoming traffic so they don't put themselves in a risky position.
Thanks for stopping, you are serving as a positive model for other drivers, so keep up the good work.
Sincerley
Erica Briggs
WBWC Board Member
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