When Does a Left-Turning Car Yield to Pedestrians?

The question of who should yield the right of way between a left-turning car and a pedestrian crossing the street can be complex and often misunderstood. In this article, we will explore the rules and legal implications to ensure everyone's safety on the road.

Basic Rules and Responsibilities

First, it is crucial to understand that pedestrians always have the right of way when they are crossing legally at a crosswalk or any intersection, even if they don't have a green light. The law prioritizes pedestrian safety, recognizing the vulnerability of pedestrians. If a driver were to cause harm or death to a pedestrian, they could face legal repercussions, regardless of who was at fault.

The Role of Traffic Signals

When a pedestrian is crossing the street, a driver must always yield. This applies even if there is no pedestrian crosswalk. A regular roundabout with no traffic signal crossing the left-turn path must yield to oncoming traffic, regardless of the direction or color of the light.

Green Left Arrow Signals

A green left arrow is a special signal that indicates that the opposing straight traffic must stop. This does not give the left-turning car the right of way in all situations. Only a green arrow light legally allows a driver to turn across traffic safely. However, even with a green arrow, the driver has a responsibility to ensure they do not cause a collision. The safety of all parties is the primary concern.

Legal Aspects and Best Practices

Legal obligations are clear: no one has the right of way; the law only describes yielding the right of way. This principle is reinforced in traffic education, such as the driver's education program that the author attended in 1972. A vehicle must always yield to a pedestrian, regardless of the light color or the presence of any other signal.

Drivers should be aware that the right of way is not absolute. If a pedestrian is crossing with a green light and no "Don't Walk" signal is lit, the pedestrian has the right of way in California. In such a situation, the driver is required to yield, even if they have a green light.

It is important to remember that a pedestrian does not have the right to assume that a vehicle will always yield. For example, if a driver is turning left in front of a pedestrian and the pedestrian does not have a stop sign or a red light, the pedestrian must wait for the vehicle to stop. Conversely, if the pedestrian is crossing against the light but the driver does not yield, the driver's actions are more critical as they can result in serious harm to the pedestrian.

In conclusion, prioritizing pedestrian safety and yielding the right of way in appropriate situations is essential for maintaining a safe and structured traffic environment. All drivers and pedestrians must be vigilant and follow these rules to prevent accidents and ensure everyone's safety.