Warner Robins, Georgia - The City of Warner Robins is reminding motorists and pedestrians to do their part to keep local roadways safe. Whether traveling by vehicle or on foot, understanding Georgia's pedestrian safety laws and practicing safe habits can help prevent crashes and protect lives.
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers should remain alert, watch for pedestrians, and understand when they are required to stop. Pedestrians should remain visible, use designated crossing areas whenever possible, and stay aware of their surroundings.
Know the Law: Georgia's Pedestrian Safety Requirements
Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-91, drivers are required to stop and remain stopped for pedestrians crossing within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is on the half of the roadway where the vehicle is traveling or is approaching within one lane of that half of the roadway.
Drivers should also remember:
Never drive around or pass a vehicle that has stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross at a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
Remain alert when approaching intersections, crosswalks, and areas where pedestrians may be present.
Exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians.
Pedestrians also have responsibilities under Georgia law, including O.C.G.A. § 40-6-92:
Use marked crosswalks whenever possible.
When crossing outside a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, yield the right-of-way to vehicles unless you have already safely entered the roadway.
Do not cross between adjacent signalized intersections except in a marked crosswalk.
Do not cross an intersection diagonally unless authorized by official traffic-control devices.
Walking Along Roadways
Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-96, also establishes requirements for pedestrians walking along roadways:
When a sidewalk is available, pedestrians should use it rather than the adjacent roadway, except under the limited circumstances provided by law.
When no sidewalk is available but a shoulder is provided, pedestrians must use the shoulder as far from the roadway as practical.
When neither a sidewalk nor shoulder is available, pedestrians should walk as near as practical to the outside edge of the roadway. On a two-lane roadway, pedestrians must walk on the left side.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
In addition to following Georgia law, the City encourages pedestrians to practice these safety habits:
Be Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when walking at night or during low-light conditions.
Use Lighting: Carry a flashlight or use a personal safety light when walking after dark.
Face Traffic: When walking where sidewalks are unavailable, walk facing oncoming traffic whenever possible.
Avoid Distractions: Put away cell phones and remain alert to surrounding traffic.
Use Crosswalks: Cross at designated crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals whenever available.
Make Eye Contact: When possible, make eye contact with drivers before crossing to help ensure they see you.
The City of Warner Robins encourages everyone to share the road, respect pedestrian rights, and make safe decisions every day.
Together, we can prevent pedestrian crashes and keep Warner Robins moving safely.