Definition of Pedestrian

• A pedestrian in California is defined as a person on foot or another type of transportation besides a bicycle. Examples of these other types of transportation include roller skates and skateboards. Those in a wheelchair are also considered to be pedestrians.
  
  

Right of Way

• Pedestrians always have the right of way. So, no matter where you encounter a pedestrian on the road, they always have the right of way. This includes crosswalks, round-abouts, at intersections not marked with signals and at street corners. Crosswalks are sometimes defined by white lines or flashing lights. Crosswalks are outlined in yellow near schools.
  
  

What Not To Do

• If another vehicle has stopped at a crosswalk, don't pass that vehicle. You may not be able to see a pedestrian who is trying to cross in the crosswalk. Never drive on a sidewalk unless you're crossing into a driveway or alley. Always yield to pedestrians who may be crossing the driveway or alley at the same time. Never stop inside a crosswalk because this may cause danger to pedestrians.
  
  

Tips

• When stopped at a crosswalk and a pedestrian makes eye contact with you, this usually means the pedestrian is ready to cross the street. Be sure to yield to the pedestrian while he is crossing the street. Allow those who are older, walking with children or those who are disabled more time to cross the street. If you're driving a hybrid or electric car, use extra caution because pedestrians often aren't able to hear the vehicle when it's in operation.
  
  

Blind Pedestrians

• Blind pedestrians have the right of way at all times. They can be recognized by having a seeing-eye dog or a cane with a red tip.
  
  Drive within five feet of the crosswalk so the blind person can hear you approach, but don't drive your vehicle in the crosswalk. If you see people waiting at a crosswalk, stop even if it's in the middle of the street. Don't give the blind person verbal directions and don't honk your horn at the person. If you have the right of way to turn right, do so after you look for pedestrians crossing the street. If a blind person steps away from the intersection and pulls his cane in, this usually is an indication for the driver to go before the pedestrian.