Question

Difficulty: MediumPedestrians and Crosswalk Safety

A driver comes to a complete stop at a red traffic light at an intersection, intending to make a legal right turn on red. As the driver prepares to execute the turn, a pedestrian steps off the curb into the marked crosswalk across the street segment the driver intends to turn onto, following an active 'WALK' signal. Which of the following actions is the driver legally required to take?

  1. Yield the right-of-way and remain stopped until the pedestrian has safely cleared the roadway area.Answer
  2. B
    Complete the right turn quickly before the pedestrian enters the driver's specific lane of travel.
  3. C
    Honk the horn to warn the pedestrian that turning motor vehicles have right-of-way over crossing foot traffic.
  4. D
    Proceed slowly around the pedestrian while keeping the vehicle within the turning radius.

Answer

The driver must yield the right-of-way and remain stopped until the pedestrian has safely cleared the crossing area.
Even when right turns on red are permitted, drivers are legally required to stop completely and yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian entering or inside the crosswalk with a 'WALK' signal. The driver must wait until the crosswalk is clear before proceeding.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze signal priority and road user roles at the intersection.
The driver faces a red signal executing a permissive right turn, whereas the pedestrian has a positive 'WALK' indicator.
Traffic laws grant full right-of-way to pedestrians crossing legally with a green or 'WALK' signal over turning vehicular traffic.
2
Determine the driver's required legal conduct prior to turning.
The driver must bring the vehicle to a full stop and yield to all crossing pedestrians before entering the crosswalk.
Making a right turn on red is allowed only after ensuring the movement can be completed without interfering with pedestrian traffic.

Key Concept

Right-of-Way Rules for Turning Vehicles and Pedestrians at Controlled Intersections
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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