Drivers must yield to a pedestrian:
Even if the pedestrian crosses the street carelessly.
Only when the pedestrian is in a crosswalk.
Only if the pedestrian is on the same side of the road as the driver.
If the pedestrian uses a hand signal to ask oncoming drivers to stop.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Even if the pedestrian crosses the street carelessly.
Explanation:
Drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians in most situations, including when the pedestrian is crossing carelessly or jaywalking, not just when they are in a crosswalk or signaling for a stop. Pedestrian safety is a primary concern in traffic laws, and yielding to pedestrians is a fundamental rule to protect individuals who may be more vulnerable in traffic situations.
- Even if the pedestrian crosses the street carelessly:
This is the correct answer because traffic laws prioritize pedestrian safety, regardless of whether the pedestrian is crossing in a crosswalk or acting carelessly. In many jurisdictions, drivers must yield to pedestrians even if they are crossing outside of designated crosswalks (i.e., jaywalking), as long as it is safe to do so. It’s a driver’s responsibility to be vigilant and anticipate the possibility of pedestrians crossing in unsafe areas. - Only when the pedestrian is in a crosswalk:
While drivers are definitely required to yield when pedestrians are in a crosswalk, the rule extends beyond crosswalks. A pedestrian’s right of way applies whether they are crossing at a crosswalk or not. A crosswalk is a legal marking, but pedestrian rights are protected more broadly. - Only if the pedestrian is on the same side of the road as the driver:
This is incorrect. The location of the pedestrian does not depend on whether they are on the same side of the road as the driver. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who may be crossing from any direction. - If the pedestrian uses a hand signal to ask oncoming drivers to stop:
Pedestrians are not required to signal with their hands for drivers to stop. The primary rule is that drivers must yield to pedestrians whether or not they signal. Hand signals may be used in certain situations for clarity, but they are not necessary for the pedestrian’s right of way.
In summary, the law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians for safety, even if they cross carelessly or outside a crosswalk. It’s part of a broader effort to protect pedestrians on the road.