120 people have been hit by cars in Charlotte since 2018. What are the rules of the road?
On Saturday night, a 26-year-old woman was killed after being struck by a vehicle near the 7800 block of Nations Ford Road, The Charlotte Observer reported.
Detectives are still investigating video of the incident and working to identify the vehicle and its driver.
The woman’s death is the latest in a string of tragedies involving pedestrians struck by vehicles in Charlotte.
About 120 pedestrians and bicyclists were hit and killed in Charlotte from 2018 through 2022, The Observer previously reported. Here’s what to know about the rules of the road for drivers and pedestrians:
What are pedestrians’ rights?
In places where pedestrian control signals are installed with “walk” and “don’t walk” instructions, pedestrians have the right-of-way on any street or highways whenever the “walk” signal is displayed, according to state law.
Pedestrians are not permitted to cross any street when the “don’t walk” signal is displayed.
However, pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to any vehicles traveling on the roadway when attempting to cross anywhere other than within a marked crosswalk, state law says.
It is illegal for pedestrians to walk along roadways when sidewalks are provided. When sidewalks are not provided, pedestrians should “only walk on the extreme left of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic which may approach from the opposite direction,” according to state law.
What can’t drivers do on the road?
Drivers whose failure to yield results in an accident that causes serious bodily injury can be fined $500 and have their licenses suspended for 90 days, according to North Carolina law.
If a driver unintentionally hits and kills a pedestrian, that person can be charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle, state law says. Those who are convicted can face up to 150 days in jail and a hefty fine, according to Woody White Law Firm in Wilmington.
Injuring or killing a pedestrian while driving impaired are both felony offenses, according to state law. These charges are punishable by up to 160 months in prison, according to Waynesville-based Nielsen Legal.
Pedestrian safety tips
Here are some tips on how pedestrians can stay safe on the road, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation:
Follow the rules of the road and obey all signs and signals
Use sidewalks whenever they are available
If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from the road as possible
Don’t let electronic devices take your eyes off the road
Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections, and look for cars turning in all directions
Look for a well-lit area to cross if a crosswalk is not available
Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to be sure they see you
Where bright clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night
Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots
Avoid alcohol and drugs while walking along a roadway, as they may impair your judgment
