Understanding West Virginia Laws for Pedestrians

January 31, 2017 | By Colombo Law

When looking at the reasons for fatalities in the state of West Virginia and across the United States, each year accidents involving motorists and pedestrians make the list. The impact associated with pedestrian accidents create a high probability for serious injuries ranging from bumps and scratches up to an including fatalities. West Virginia, like many other states, have laws regarding a pedestrian’s rights. In an effort to ensure the highest amount of safety, there are also laws requiring pedestrians to take certain actions while traveling by foot. If you or your loved one was traveling as a pedestrian in the state of West Virginia and was injured by a motorist, contact Colombo Law today to determine your right to financial relief.

Motorist Responsibilities

Motorists frequently encounter pedestrians at some point in their intended travel. Pedestrians exist while on sidewalks, exiting their vehicles, and while entering and exiting a store’s premises. West Virginia law outlines the responsibilities of motorists when encountering pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in some, but not all, circumstances. Motorists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks where there is a signal that provides when pedestrians can or cannot cross. This right-of-way is not an absolute right. However, where crosswalks containing traffic signals for pedestrians or other signage providing pedestrians with the right-of-way, motorists must pay attention the signage and be mindful of those traveling by foot.

Pedestrian Responsibilities

West Virginia law requires pedestrians to look for and obey traffic signals that are present at cross-walks. Where there are no crosswalks, pedestrians do not have the right-of-way. Instead, they must yield to the right of way of all vehicles that are traveling on the roadway. In addition, sidewalks do not exist in many parts of West Virginia. Where sidewalks do not exist, West Virginia law provides that pedestrians must walk on the left side of the street, facing oncoming traffic. This is a safety measure, in an effort to reduce car accidents in cases where pedestrians cannot see a motorist.

Consequences of Failure to Obey the Law

Failing to follow the law regarding when to yield to pedestrians or motorists is dangerous due to the many people placed at risk. It may lead to fatal consequences of a pedestrian or damages asserted by a motorist. In addition, both motorists and pedestrians can be penalized by being required to pay a fine or other penalties for disobeying the law.

Contact Colombo Law Today

If you have been injured in an accident or incident in West Virginia, contact an attorney at Colombo Law for legal assistance. Colombo Law assists clients located in and around West Virginia including in Morgantown, Fairmont, Clarksburg, Bridgeport, Kingwood Grafton, Weston, Philippi, Buckhannon, Elkins, Parkersburg, as well as Monongalia, Marion, Harrison, Preston, Taylor, and Lewis county. If you are unsure of whether you have a personal injury claim or how to proceed with obtaining monetary compensation, let one of our attorneys take the stress away from you. Contact one of our attorneys today.