Walking should be safe, but pedestrian accidents continue to claim lives across Oklahoma. When you’re on foot, understanding Oklahoma pedestrian right-of-way laws can protect you from serious injury and help you know when you may have legal recourse after an accident.
Key Takeaways:
- Pedestrian Right-of-Way: In Oklahoma, pedestrians generally have the right-of-way at crosswalks, but must also yield when it’s unsafe to cross.
- Crosswalk & Road Rules: Pedestrians should stay on the right half of crosswalks, use sidewalks when available, and walk facing traffic if no sidewalks exist.
- Restrictions: Pedestrians cannot solicit rides, money, or business on roadways, and certain bridge activities (like diving) are prohibited.
- Drivers’ Duty: Drivers must always use caution, yield to pedestrians, and be extra careful around children or vulnerable individuals.
- Accident Statistics: In 2021, Oklahoma saw 576 pedestrian injuries (up 15.2% from 2020) and 104 fatalities (up 20.9%).
Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, pedestrians generally have the right-of-way at both marked and unmarked crosswalks and intersections where there are no traffic signals. However, pedestrians also have a responsibility to yield to traffic when it’s not safe to cross, and they shouldn’t enter a crosswalk when a vehicle is too close to stop.
Pedestrians Must Adhere to Traffic Regulations
Oklahoma law makes it clear that pedestrians aren’t exempt from following traffic rules. Under §47-11-501, pedestrians are required to follow any traffic signs or signals that apply to them, unless a police officer gives different directions. They must obey all traffic and pedestrian signals as stated in the law.
Outside of those specific signals, pedestrians still have certain rights and responsibilities that they must follow according to the rules in this chapter.
Pedestrian Rights for Those in Wheelchairs
According to §47-11-501.1, anyone using a wheelchair or motorized wheelchair has the same rights and responsibilities as a pedestrian, unless a rule doesn’t make sense for them.
Pedestrians’ Right-of-Way in Crosswalks
The pedestrian right-of-way laws in Oklahoma, specifically §47-11-502, state that when there are no traffic lights or they aren’t working, drivers must slow down or stop to let pedestrians cross the street at crosswalks if the pedestrian is on the same side of the road or close enough on the other side to be in danger.
Pedestrians should not suddenly step off the curb into the path of a vehicle that is too close for the driver to stop safely. Also, if a vehicle stops at a crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross, other drivers behind it are not allowed to pass that stopped vehicle. Some exceptions to these rules exist but are covered in a different law.
Pedestrians Crossing Other Places Than Crosswalks
Under §47-11-503, pedestrians must yield to all vehicles when crossing a road anywhere other than at a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. If there is a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing nearby, pedestrians must also yield to vehicles when crossing the road.
Additionally, when traffic lights control nearby intersections, pedestrians are only allowed to cross at marked crosswalks between those intersections.
Pedestrians Must Use the Right Half of Crosswalks
§47-11-505 requires pedestrians to use the right half of crosswalks whenever practicable. This simple rule helps prevent collisions between pedestrians crossing from opposite directions and maintains orderly traffic flow.
Pedestrians On Roadways of Bridges
In Oklahoma, pedestrians must follow certain rules when walking near roads or bridges. According to §47-11-506, if there are sidewalks, pedestrians cannot walk on the adjacent roadway. If no sidewalks are available, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road or shoulder, facing oncoming traffic, and must yield to vehicles when possible.
Additionally, it is illegal to use a bridge without sidewalks for jumping or diving into water, or to stand or sightsee on such bridges.
Pedestrians Soliciting Rides or Business
In Oklahoma, it is illegal for anyone to stand in the roadway to ask for a ride, money, work, or business from a driver. This rule is outlined in statute §47-11-507 and prohibits pedestrians from soliciting anything from vehicle occupants while standing on the road.
Drivers’ Duty to Care
Perhaps the most critical protection for pedestrians comes from §47-11-504, which requires drivers to always be careful to avoid hitting pedestrians on the road. They should use their horn to warn people when needed and be extra cautious when they see children or anyone who seems confused or unable to care for themselves.
Oklahoma Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Oklahoma pedestrian accidents are more common than you may think. According to the 2021 Highway Safety Crash Facts Book from the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, pedestrian-involved crashes continue to occur throughout the state, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
Here are some shocking Oklahoma pedestrian accident statistics:
- 576 injuries were reported in 2021, which is a 15.2% increase from 2020.
- 104 fatalities occurred in 2021, a 20.9% increase from the previous year.
Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents
Getting hit by a car while crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk can be more dangerous than a standard car accident because you don’t have the protection a vehicle offers.
Since you’re more vulnerable to catastrophic injuries, your recovery can be very exhausting. Here are some of the most common injuries in Oklahoma pedestrian accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries from impact with vehicles or pavement
- Broken bones, particularly in legs, arms, and ribs
- Spinal cord injuries that may cause paralysis
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
- Severe cuts and abrasions requiring extensive treatment
- Psychological trauma and emotional distress
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work, creating significant financial burdens for victims and their families. Securing a significant settlement can help cover these costs.
Read More: What is the Average Pedestrian Accident Settlement Amount?
Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Drivers
Both pedestrians and drivers can take steps to prevent accidents:
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals
- Look both ways before crossing and make eye contact with drivers
- Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night
- Avoid distractions like phones while crossing streets
- Never assume drivers see you; Stay alert
Safety Tips for Drivers
- Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Reduce speed in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic
- Watch for pedestrians at intersections, driveways, and parking lots
- Never pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks
- Exercise extra caution around schools, parks, and residential areas
We Fight for Injured Pedestrians
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At DM Injury Law, we understand Oklahoma pedestrian right-of-way laws inside and out.
We investigate every aspect of your case, work with accident reconstruction experts, and fight aggressively against insurance companies that try to minimize your claim. You shouldn’t have to face mounting medical bills and lost wages while recovering from injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
DM Injury Law has multiple offices in Oklahoma, including:
Speak to our attorneys and support staff of investigators, case managers, and medical records specialists today for reliable legal help.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Do you tend to travel across the Midwest a lot? Take a look at our other blogs about pedestrian laws across the Midwest:
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