Pedestrians have a high likelihood of suffering severe injuries when involved in car accidents.
Most drivers in Texas make reasonable efforts to avoid striking pedestrians with their vehicles,
but accidents still occur every day.
Texas Pedestrian Accident Statistics
- 1 in 6 traffic fatalities in Texas are pedestrian deaths
- Pedestrian deaths have been trending upward since 2014
- Pedestrian fatalities increased by 22% from 2019 to 2023
Laws Regarding Pedestrian Rights and Responsibilities in Texas
Most people assume that pedestrians in crosswalks have the right-of-way and that drivers must
stop for them. While this is true in general, the actual laws in Texas are more complex. A few of
the pedestrian laws drivers in Austin and throughout Texas should be aware of are as follows:
- Pedestrians may cross in a marked or unmarked crosswalk when facing a green signal
unless the only green signal is a turn arrow. - Drivers must yield to pedestrians when they cross with a “Walk” signal.
- Pedestrians may not begin crossing the street when “Don’t Walk” or “Wait” is displayed,
but if they have partially crossed with the “Walk” signal and the signal changes before
they are fully across the street, they can proceed to cross to the sidewalk or safety island
with “Don’t Walk” or “Wait” displayed. - If there is no traffic signal, drivers must stop and yield the right-of-way for pedestrians in
crosswalks if the pedestrian is on the driver’s side of the road or they are approaching so
closely as to be in danger. - Pedestrians may not suddenly enter the street or the crosswalk into the path of a vehicle
so close that the driver does not have time to stop and yield to the pedestrian. - Drivers traveling behind another vehicle that is stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross
may not pass the stopped vehicle. - Pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to vehicles when crossing at places other than
marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections and where a pedestrian tunnel or
crossing has been provided.
Texas law also requires that drivers exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians on the street,
blow the horn in warning when necessary, and exercise proper precaution when they notice a
child or incapacitated person.
Tips for Preventing Pedestrian Accidents in Austin, Texas
If you regularly commute on foot or plan on walking the sidewalks of Austin in the near future,
being aware of the pedestrian laws can help keep you safer. Although it is impossible to prevent
all accidents, the following steps can increase your chances of traveling safely as a pedestrian in
Texas:
- Cross only in crosswalks whenever possible.
- Do not assume cars are stopping for you – look both ways before crossing.
- Make eye contact with drivers so you know they see you.
- Follow the crosswalk signals and only walk when the appropriate signal is displayed.
- Do not text or use electronic devices while walking.
- Wear reflective materials or brightly colored clothing, especially at night.
Austin has been working with Vision Zero, an initiative to reduce pedestrian injuries and deaths.
Despite this partnership, pedestrian accidents still occur at an alarming rate in the city. Austin’s
high-injury network marks nearly every street in the city center as having a relatively high number
of severe and fatal accidents involving pedestrians.
Contact an Austin Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Austin or the surrounding areas, you need an
attorney who will fight tirelessly for your financial recovery. At the Law Offices of Nader Irsan, our
car accident lawyers are fully dedicated to advocating for your right to fair compensation after a
devastating injury. We handle every step of the legal process so you can focus on your physical
and emotional health.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.