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1. Can I request that a STOP sign be installed to slow down vehicles?

In accordance with the New York State Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the proper use of stop signs are as safety measures to determine the right of way at intersections experiencing sufficient traffic and vehicular accidents and where poor visibility, unusual geometry or unexpected traffic conflicts exist. When stop signs are installed to slow down speeders, drivers tend to actually increase their speed between signs to compensate for the time lost by stopping. Some drivers tend to accelerate rapidly after a stop, possibly creating an unsafe situation. Studies have shown that most drivers reach their top speed within 100 feet of a stop sign.

2. Which traffic laws apply to pedestrians?

Pedestrians must obey traffic control signals, signs and pavement markings when they are crossing a street [Section 1150, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law]. Pedestrians are not allowed on expressways or interstate highways.

3. What is the law regarding crosswalks?

When there is no traffic control signal, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, particularly if a pedestrian is in a crosswalk on the same side of the road, or there is potential danger to the pedestrian [Section 1151, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law]. In addition, every driver approaching an intersection or crosswalk must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian accompanied by a guide dog or a cane [Section 1153-c, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law].

4. What if there isn't a crosswalk?

If there isn't a crosswalk, sign or signal at mid-block locations, a pedestrian must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles on the roadway [Section 1152, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law].

5. What about sidewalks?

The driver of a vehicle, when entering or exiting from an alleyway, building, private road or driveway must yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian on a sidewalk [Section 1151-a, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law]. Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks where they are provided and safe to use. When sidewalks are not provided, a pedestrian is required to walk on the left side of the roadway facing traffic [Section 1156-b, NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law].