By AUBRIE GEORGE | The Marlton Telegram
Changes to state laws regarding pedestrians crossing at crosswalks went into effect April 1. The new regulations require motorists to stop — and remain stopped — for pedestrians in a crosswalk, and impose hefty fines for those who fail to do so.
Before the new laws went into effect, state officials announced that changes would be made to the old statute, which says motorists must yield to pedestrians who are crossing at a crosswalk.
Under the new laws, motorists are required to stop completely, and remain stopped, for pedestrians crossing a roadway at an intersection that is controlled by a traffic control device, within a marked crosswalk or at an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Pedestrians crossing at a controlled intersection have the right of way should the “go” signal change while the pedestrian is still within the crosswalk.
In addition, approaching vehicles are not allowed to pass or overtake a vehicle stopped in the direction they are traveling that has stopped to allow a pedestrian crossing
Motorists who fail to follow the new regulations face a $200 fine, plus court costs, and two points on their license. Violators may also be subject to 15 days of community service and insurance surcharges.
The law is also in place for pedestrians as well, who are cautioned not to jaywalk or step into traffic outside of designated crossing points.
The new law states that pedestrians are not allowed to leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle, which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield or stop
See this week’s print edition of The Telegram for the full story.
