California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Rules of the Road and Right-of-WayMedium
You are making a left turn at a signalized intersection. The traffic light turns green, but there are still pedestrians in the crosswalk you intend to turn into. What is your responsibility?
- AProceed with your turn, as you have the green light, and pedestrians should yield.
- BSlowly proceed into the crosswalk, signaling to pedestrians to hurry.
- CWait until the pedestrians have completely cleared the crosswalk before completing your turn.
- DHonk your horn to alert pedestrians to clear the crosswalk more quickly.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Wait until the pedestrians have completely cleared the crosswalk before completing your turn.
Even with a green light, drivers must always yield to pedestrians who are legally in the crosswalk. You must wait until they have completely cleared your path of travel before making your turn.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, regardless of the light color.
- B. Proceeding into the crosswalk while pedestrians are present is dangerous and illegal.
- D. Honking is not appropriate and does not absolve you of your responsibility to yield.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way (Turning)
Drivers turning at an intersection must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk, even if they have a green light or turn arrow.
- Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
- Wait until the crosswalk is clear.
- Failure to yield can result in fines and points.
Memory trick: Pedestrian first, driver yields, no thirst.