Legally, are you supposed to follow the streetlight or the "walk/don't walk" sign when crossing streets?

Question

Sometimes the streetlight is green, but the "Don't Walk" sign is lit, although it appears to be safe to cross, based on traffic patterns. I know this may vary by locality (I wouldn't think this law would be federally applied), but is it clearly spelled out in any locality?

Or, is the "walk/don't walk" sign even legally applicable? Maybe it's just a suggestion sign, and pedestrians can legally cross whenever they want, as long as they yield to traffic? Specific references to traffic codes would be *great*.

Answer 1

I've been told pedestrians always have the right-of-way on crosswalks, especially at cross-walks which are marked and unmarked. But, it's common sense that if a pedestrian doesn't yield, it's not a pretty sight.

When it comes to the "walk/don't walk" sign, that seems to be a little different. I actually witnessed someone getting a ticked for crossing the street when the traffic light is green, but the pedestrian light blinks Don't Walk. The individuals went ballistic at the cop when he gave him the ticket pleading their case to me and every person walking by, so I know he got a ticket for that.

Of course cops have a lot of leeway, because maybe he saw a danger in what they did that they didn't notice, and for that, it may have warranted a ticket. Or maybe the cop was just on a power trip. I'll never know, but I believe you can't technically walk into a crosswalk when the don't walk sign is on.

I'm also going to assume, that for the walk/don't walk signs that have a countdown on them (shows a blinking hand with a countdown below them) you can be ticketed if there is no walking man. I see this on the basis that once oncoming traffic light becomes green, you're technically impeding traffic.

Answer 2

the sign is to help u be safe...if u dont follow the sign then u r j waliking which it is illegal in many states...so cross the street wen u c a red lite because sometimes the signs dont work properly

u should always follow the streetlight

Answer 3

You should follow both but the walk don't walk is the main one your supposed to follow. If it doesn't work when the light turns green, then that means no one pushed the button. If you walk up to the light make sure you push the button because then the cops cant give you any $hit.

Answer 4

this is covered in the motor vehicle act or the street bylaw section of your town or county If the sign says Dont Dont..