Practice question

If a pedestrian is crossing at an intersection without marked lines, who has the right of way?

  1. The driver
  2. The pedestrian
  3. The bicyclist
  4. Both the driver and pedestrian equally

Answer: B — The pedestrian

The correct answer is that the pedestrian has the right of way when crossing at an intersection without marked lines. In California, the law prioritizes the safety of pedestrians, especially in areas where they are traversing roadways. This means that when pedestrians are crossing at intersections, regardless of whether there are marked crosswalks, they are given the right of way over vehicles. This approach is designed to protect pedestrians, encouraging drivers to remain alert and yield to individuals crossing the street. The expectation is that drivers will be cautious and prepared to stop for pedestrians in these situations, which enhances overall safety on the roads. When considering the other options, drivers do not have the right of way over pedestrians in this context, and while bicyclists may also be present at intersections, they must give way to pedestrians. The concept of equal right of way doesn't apply here, as the law clearly establishes that pedestrians take precedence in this situation.

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