California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Safe Driving PracticesMedium
You are approaching an intersection where a pedestrian is waiting to cross the street. There is no marked crosswalk. What is your legal obligation?
- AYou must yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian.
- BYou only need to stop if the pedestrian has already entered the roadway.
- CThe pedestrian must yield the right-of-way to you, as there is no marked crosswalk.
- DYou should proceed cautiously, but the pedestrian must wait for a clear opening.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. You must yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian.
In California, every intersection is considered to have an unmarked crosswalk, whether or not it is painted. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing at any intersection, even if there is no marked crosswalk.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Yielding is required if the pedestrian is in or about to enter the crosswalk, not just after they've entered.
- C. This is incorrect; pedestrians always have the right-of-way at intersections, regardless of a marked crosswalk.
- D. While caution is always good, the legal requirement is to yield, not just proceed cautiously.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way (Unmarked Crosswalks)
Legal obligation of drivers regarding pedestrians at intersections without painted crosswalks.
- Every intersection has an unmarked crosswalk.
- Drivers must yield to pedestrians in any crosswalk.
- Pedestrian safety is paramount.
Memory trick: At every corner, a pedestrian's right, yield with all your might.