Traffic safety is a shared responsibility, but the interaction between turning vehicles and pedestrians is one of the most common sources of confusion and accidents in Pennsylvania. Understanding who has the right of way not only helps drivers avoid costly citations but also protects pedestrians from preventable injuries. This article explains Pennsylvania’s right-of-way laws, highlights common scenarios, and provides insight into how courts and insurance companies assess liability when accidents occur.

Pennsylvania Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws

Pennsylvania law prioritizes pedestrian safety, particularly at crosswalks. Under Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections where traffic-control devices are not functioning. This requirement applies regardless of whether a pedestrian is crossing from the driver’s left or right side. Failure to yield can result in traffic citations, fines, and increased liability in the event of a collision.

Exceptions to Right-of-Way

Pedestrians are also held to certain responsibilities. They cannot suddenly leave a curb or sidewalk and walk into the path of a vehicle that is too close to stop safely. Similarly, pedestrians crossing outside a designated crosswalk must yield to vehicles unless they are already halfway across the street. Pennsylvania law seeks to balance accountability—drivers must remain cautious, but pedestrians must also exercise reasonable care.

Turning Vehicles at Intersections in PA

Intersections present heightened risks because vehicles are often turning while pedestrians are crossing. The rules vary depending on the type of turn being made:

Left Turns and Pedestrian Right of Way

When a driver makes a left turn at an intersection, they must yield to oncoming traffic and to pedestrians crossing the street in either direction of the driver’s intended path. For example, a pedestrian crossing with a “walk” signal while a vehicle attempts a left turn has priority. If the driver fails to yield, they are typically considered at fault.

Right Turns and Pedestrian Safety

Right-hand turns are another frequent source of conflict. Drivers may focus on oncoming traffic to their left, failing to check for pedestrians crossing from their right. Pennsylvania law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians who are lawfully within a crosswalk when turning right, whether they have a green light or are making a “right on red.” Drivers who strike pedestrians in these scenarios are often cited for failing to yield and may face civil liability.

Crosswalks, Signals, and Shared Responsibility

The presence of traffic signals can complicate right-of-way determinations. A pedestrian with a walk signal has the clear legal right of way. Conversely, if a pedestrian enters the intersection against a red signal or flashing “don’t walk” sign, liability may shift toward them. However, even in these situations, drivers are expected to take reasonable steps to avoid a collision.

Midblock Crosswalks and Marked Zones

Pennsylvania recognizes both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Even where there are no painted lines, the law generally treats any intersection as having a crosswalk unless specifically prohibited. At midblock crosswalks with pedestrian signals, drivers must yield when the signal indicates “walk.” Ignoring these signals can expose drivers to both traffic penalties and negligence claims.

Liability in Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accidents

Determining fault in pedestrian accidents often hinges on whether traffic laws were followed. Insurance companies and courts look at both driver behavior and pedestrian conduct. For instance, if a driver ignored a red light and struck a pedestrian in a crosswalk, liability is clear. But if a pedestrian darted into traffic outside a crosswalk, fault may be shared.

Comparative Negligence in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means a pedestrian can still recover damages if they were less than 51 percent at fault. However, their compensation is reduced in proportion to their share of responsibility. For example, if a pedestrian is found 20 percent responsible for stepping into traffic too quickly, their damages award will be reduced by 20 percent.

How Fault Impacts Compensation

Compensation in pedestrian accidents may include medical expenses, lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Because pedestrian injuries are often severe, settlement values can be significant. Insurance adjusters closely analyze whether the driver properly yielded and whether the pedestrian obeyed signals before assigning liability.

Common Causes of Turning Vehicle and Pedestrian Collisions

Many right-of-way disputes arise from preventable driver errors and pedestrian misjudgments. The most frequent causes include:

• Drivers failing to check for pedestrians before turning
• Pedestrians crossing against signals
• Poor visibility at night or in inclement weather
• Distracted driving or distracted walking
• Misinterpretation of traffic signals at busy intersections

Awareness of these risk factors is essential for reducing accidents in Pennsylvania’s urban and suburban areas.

PennDOT Statistics Highlighting the Risk

According to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation data, more than 3,000 pedestrian accidents occur in the state each year, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and thousands of injuries. Roughly one in five pedestrian fatalities involves turning vehicles at intersections. These numbers underscore why understanding right-of-way laws is not just about compliance—it’s about public safety.

Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

Both parties can take steps to prevent tragic outcomes:

For Drivers:

• Always look for pedestrians before making left or right turns
• Avoid rolling through crosswalks when waiting to turn
• Eliminate distractions such as cell phones
• Slow down in residential and school zones

For Pedestrians:

• Use marked crosswalks whenever possible
• Wait for a clear walk signal before crossing
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping off the curb
• Stay alert and avoid distractions like headphones or texting while walking

When Legal Guidance May Be Necessary

After an accident involving a turning vehicle and a pedestrian, legal questions often arise quickly. Victims may face hospital bills, missed work, and long recovery times. At the same time, drivers may worry about traffic citations, insurance penalties, and civil lawsuits. Because liability in Pennsylvania depends on the specifics of each case—including traffic signals, crosswalk placement, and witness accounts—many individuals turn to personal injury attorneys to help protect their rights and secure compensation.

Conclusion

Right-of-way rules in Pennsylvania make clear that drivers must yield to pedestrians in most crossing scenarios, especially at crosswalks and intersections. At the same time, pedestrians are expected to follow signals and avoid stepping into traffic unpredictably. When turning vehicles and pedestrians collide, determining fault requires careful consideration of both parties’ actions under state law. By understanding these rules, exercising caution, and respecting each other’s rights, both drivers and pedestrians can reduce the risk of serious accidents on Pennsylvania roads.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is One Phone Call Away

Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident is challenging, especially when questions of fault arise. You do not have to face this process alone. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured individuals across Pennsylvania. Our team has the experience and resources to meticulously investigate your accident, challenge unfair blame, and pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Do not let an insurance company dictate the value of your claim. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case. We are available to assist you day or night.