California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsMedium
You are making a right turn at an intersection. The traffic light for your lane is green, but there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk you intend to turn into. What is the correct action you should take?
- AYield to the pedestrian and wait until they have cleared the crosswalk.
- BHonk your horn to alert the pedestrian to hurry.
- CDrive slowly around the pedestrian, maintaining a safe distance.
- DProceed with the turn, as you have a green light.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Yield to the pedestrian and wait until they have cleared the crosswalk.
In California, drivers must always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, even if the traffic light is green for vehicles. Pedestrian safety is paramount.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is incorrect and aggressive; honking to rush a pedestrian is unsafe and illegal.
- C. This is incorrect; driving around a pedestrian in a crosswalk is dangerous and illegal.
- D. This is incorrect; a green light does not override the requirement to yield to pedestrians.
Yield to Pedestrians
Drivers must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in a crosswalk, regardless of traffic signals.
- Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks.
- Applies even with a green light for vehicles.
- Failure to yield is a traffic violation and dangerous.
Memory trick: Pedestrians first, always, without a fuss.