New York DMV Permit Written TestRules of the Road and Traffic LawsEasy
You are making a right turn at an intersection. There is a pedestrian crossing in the crosswalk that you intend to turn into. What must you do?
- AHonk your horn to alert the pedestrian and then proceed with caution.
- BYield the right-of-way to the pedestrian and wait until they have cleared the crosswalk.
- CAccelerate slightly to complete your turn before the pedestrian enters your path.
- DProceed with your turn, as vehicles generally have the right-of-way over pedestrians during turns.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Yield the right-of-way to the pedestrian and wait until they have cleared the crosswalk.
In New York State, pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks, regardless of traffic signals or turning vehicles. You must yield to them and wait until they have safely crossed before completing your turn.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Honking is not a substitute for yielding and can be seen as aggressive.
- C. Accelerating around a pedestrian is extremely dangerous and illegal.
- D. This is incorrect; pedestrians in crosswalks have the right-of-way over turning vehicles.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way (Turns)
When making a turn, drivers must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are in or entering the crosswalk.
- Pedestrians always have right-of-way in crosswalks.
- Yield before and during turns.
- Be prepared to stop.
Memory trick: Pedestrian's path, driver's wait, no debate.