California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Traffic Signs and SignalsHard
You are at an intersection where the traffic light is green, but a pedestrian is still in the crosswalk in front of your vehicle. What should you do?
- AEdge forward slowly to encourage the pedestrian to move faster.
- BWait until the pedestrian has completely cleared the crosswalk.
- CProceed with caution, driving around the pedestrian.
- DHonk your horn to alert the pedestrian to hurry.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Wait until the pedestrian has completely cleared the crosswalk.
California Vehicle Code requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, even if the traffic light is green for vehicles. You must wait until the pedestrian has completely cleared your path.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Edging forward is aggressive and can intimidate the pedestrian, potentially causing them to rush or stumble.
- C. Driving around a pedestrian in a crosswalk is illegal and highly dangerous.
- D. Honking could startle the pedestrian and is generally not advised unless to prevent an immediate accident.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way (Crosswalk)
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks, regardless of traffic signal indication, until they have safely cleared the driver's path.
- Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks.
- Applies even if the vehicle has a green light.
- Failure to yield can result in fines and points on your license.
Memory trick: Pedestrians are always paramount, especially in their path.