The weather is warming up, and more and more people are spending time outside to enjoy the fresh spring air. However, as more people spend time outside, they will be sharing the road with motor vehicles. This presents a safety risk to pedestrians, and there are some things you should remember before you go out for a stroll.
Pedestrian Rules in Pennsylvania
While out walking, you are considered a pedestrian. However, it is still important to follow the rules of the road when walking down or crossing roadways. If you need to cross a roadway, the safest place to do so is at an intersection with a defined crosswalk. In many cases, these are controlled by crossing signals.
If you are walking along a roadway, Pennsylvania law requires that pedestrians use the sidewalk where one is provided and its use is practicable. When there is no sidewalk available, the law requires pedestrians to walk only upon a shoulder, and as far as practicable from the edge of the highway. Finally, where there is neither a sidewalk nor a shoulder, pedestrians must walk as near as possible to the outside edge of the roadway, and against the flow of traffic where possible.
Tips for Walking Safely
It is important to remember that, under the laws of Pennsylvania, except where in designated pedestrian areas like sidewalks and crossings, pedestrians must yield the right of way to vehicles. However, you can increase your visibility and your safety by taking a few simple steps.
- Try to constrain your outdoor activities to the daytime hours where visibility is higher for drivers.
- If you want or need to walk at night, invest in some simple safety devices, like a reflective vest or shoes, a head lamp, or even light-up leashes for your pet.
Injured While Walking? We Can Help.
While you can minimize your risks of injury as a pedestrian, you can never make it zero. If you are injured while out walking this spring or beyond, give O’Donnell Law Offices a call and we can evaluate your claim. O’Donnell Law Offices has decades of experience representing injured pedestrians, and we will help you understand your rights in recovering for those injuries.
What is a Personal Injury Case?
In this video, Attorney Gerard Gaughan explains what a personal injury case is and what it means for someone who has been hurt due to someone else’s negligence. With years of experience representing injured clients across Northeastern Pennsylvania, Gerard breaks down the basics—so you can better understand your rights and what to expect if you’re considering a claim.
Pedestrian Safety in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Wilkes-Barre is a vibrant city with walkable neighborhoods, active downtown areas, and local colleges that bring many pedestrians to its streets daily. However, high-traffic zones like Public Square, River Street, and the areas around Wilkes University and King’s College also present significant risks for those on foot.
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents in Wilkes-Barre are not uncommon. Busy intersections, limited crosswalk visibility, and distracted drivers all contribute to the danger. That’s why it’s critical for walkers to understand their rights and responsibilities under Pennsylvania law—and to stay alert, especially when crossing roadways or walking at night.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Wilkes-Barre, O’Donnell Law Offices can help. Our firm is based right here in Luzerne County, and we have decades of experience representing injured pedestrians throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. We understand the local roads, the common causes of these incidents, and how to pursue justice on your behalf.