Minnesota Department of Transportation

511 Travel Info

Share the Road - Pedestrians

Pedestrian safety is a two-way street

Safety Tips

Follow the law and these safety guidelines to keep everyone safe.

MOTORISTS

Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks

  • Remember that every intersection is a crosswalk, even those without painted lines, signs or stop lights
  • Look for and stop for crossing pedestrians when making right or left turns at intersections
  • Leave lots of room between you and the pedestrian when stopping

 

Watch for pedestrians at all times

  • Scan the road and sides of the road ahead for pedestrians
  • Before making a turn, look in all directions for pedestrians crossing
  • Look carefully behind your vehicle before backing up, especially for small children

 

Avoid distracted and aggressive driving

  • Put away the cell phones, food and make-up
  • Stop for pedestrians, even when they are in the wrong or crossing mid-block
  • Never pass or drive around a vehicle that is stopped for pedestrians
  • Obey speed limits and come to a complete stop at STOP signs

PEDESTRIANS

Look before you cross

  • Make eye contact with drivers and ensure they see you and will stop
  • Clearly show your intentions to cross
  • Watch for turning and passing vehicles
  • Look across ALL lanes for moving vehicles before proceeding

 

Make yourself visible to drivers

  • Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars or other obstacles before crossing
  • Cross in a well-lit area at night
  • Wear bright-colored clothing and reflective material

 

Avoid dangerous and distracted behaviors

  • Cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections; don’t cross-mid block
  • Remove headphones and stay off cell phones while crossing
  • Obey all traffic signals
  • Don't solely rely on traffic signals; look for vehicles before crossing
  • Always walk on the sidewalk; if there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic
  • If intoxicated, don't walk without assistance—a cab ride home may be a safer option