Pedestrians and Arizona Roadways: A Review

Overview of Arizona Roadway Legislation

If sidewalks are provided, pedestrians are mandated under Arizona law to use them. This requirement, which is established by the Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 28-796¹, is often overlooked by many, thereby necessitating clarification, especially when arguments arise regarding pedestrian rights on Arizona’s roads.

Pedestrian Rights Under Arizona Law

In response to a widely circulated letter suggesting that pedestrians have a rightful place on Valley roads, it is crucial to correct misinformation regarding pedestrians’ rights.² ARS 28-796 elucidates that if sidewalks are provided, pedestrians are prohibited from walking on an adjacent roadway. Walking on the roadway is only deemed acceptable when sidewalks are not provided. When such conditions apply, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder, facing the oncoming traffic from the opposite direction.³

Walking on the Roadway: Exceptions and Clarifications

However, the law also stipulates, implicitly, that if it is impracticable to walk on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder, walking on the roadway may be permitted. The term ‘impracticable’ can encompass any number of situations such as obstruction due to fallen tree branches, flooding, accumulated snow, or broken pathways. Hence, the pedestrian’s judgment is crucial in these scenarios.⁴

Implications of Roadways for Pedestrians: A Closer Examination

ARS 28-796 also prevents people from standing in a roadway to solicit a ride⁵. This directive is designed to prevent accidents caused by sudden, unexpected pedestrian movements, which can surprise and potentially confuse drivers.⁶

Understanding ARS 28-796 for Greater Road Safety

It’s essential to stress that the legislation isn’t designed to limit pedestrian rights. Instead, it seeks to ensure public safety by reducing instances of traffic-related mishaps involving pedestrians. Pedestrians are encouraged to follow the stipulated guidelines and utilize sidewalks whenever they’re provided to help maintain an orderly, safe, and efficient road system.⁷

Conclusion: Time to Rethink Our Approach Towards Pedestrians

While the law seems clear, the application of it in real-world situations may not be as straightforward. It’s important for both pedestrians and drivers to understand and respect each other’s rights and responsibilities while sharing the road. Every road user plays a critical role in promoting roadway safety.⁸

Feedback, Responses and Constructive Opinions

Citizen input is greatly welcomed and encouraged. Readers are invited to submit their reactions, whether in agreement or disagreement, to the email AzOpinions@iniusa.org. Let’s work together to create an environment where pedestrians and vehicles can coexist safely.⁹

Keywords: Arizona law, roads, roadway, pedestrian, pedestrians, ARS 28-796, public safety, road safety, pedestrian rights, sidewalks, traffic safety, pedestrian legislation

References

1. ARS 28-796, “Pedestrians; roadway rules.”
2. Public letter, “Walkers have a place on Valley roads,” December 18, 2024.
3. ARS 28-796, “Pedestrians; roadway rules.”
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.
6. Evaluation of pedestrian safety, Arizona Department of Transportation.
7. Ibid.
8. US Department of Transportation, Pedestrian Safety Guide and Countermeasure Selection System.
9. Reader response email, AzOpinions@iniusa.org.

Originally Post From https://yourvalley.net/phoenix-independent/stories/under-arizona-law-pedestrians-dont-always-have-a-place-on-our-roads,553073

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