North Carolina pedestrian and driver duties vary with the crossing, signal, sidewalk, roadway, and circumstances; a phrase such as “the pedestrian always has the right-of-way” does not replace the statute.

Crosswalks and intersections

North Carolina G.S. 20-173 identifies circumstances in which a driver must yield to a pedestrian in a marked or unmarked crosswalk at or near an intersection when traffic-control signals are not in place or operating. It also addresses a driver entering or leaving an alley, building entrance, private road, or driveway across a sidewalk or walkway.

Crossing and walking along a roadway

G.S. 20-174 addresses crossing at points other than crosswalks and walking along a highway. It also states that every driver must exercise due care to avoid colliding with a pedestrian and take stated precautions on observing a child or a confused or incapacitated person on a roadway.

After an incident, preserve the facts

  • The crossing, signal phase, roadway, sidewalk, lighting, weather, and traffic conditions
  • Photos, video, report information, vehicle information, and witness contact details
  • Medical and insurance records, while keeping medical evaluation separate from a conclusion about fault
  • Any nearby camera location or business, public-agency, or property contact that may have relevant records

Questions about a North Carolina pedestrian-accident matter depend on the complete record and circumstances rather than one general rule.

Sources