Title
Resolution to Endorse HB 4738 and the Creation of a Statewide Crosswalk Law
Memorandum
Currently Michigan is the only state without language in its vehicle code for a crosswalk law standard. The Michigan State Police offer crosswalk language in the Michigan Uniform Traffic Code, which communities have the option of adopting. Other communities have adopted local ordinances, thus crosswalk laws differ from municipality to municipality. HB 4738 would create a statewide crosswalk law. The relevant amendments to state law that are contemplated in the bill include the following:
Sec. 612a. (1) When traffic is not controlled by traffic signals or traffic signals are not in operation, the driver of a vehicle shall stop and yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian within a crosswalk when the pedestrian is on the half of the roadway on which the vehicle is traveling or when the pedestrian is approaching so closely from the opposite half of the roadway as to be in danger. A pedestrian shall not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it is impossible for the driver to stop and yield to that pedestrian.
(2) A person who violates subsection (1) is responsible for a civil infraction.
Sec. 613e. (1) A pedestrian shall not cross a roadway other than by the shortest route to the opposite curb, except when crossing within a crosswalk.
(2) A pedestrian who crosses a roadway at a point other than within a crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles on the roadway.
And:
(10) When a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk to permit a pedestrian to cross the roadway, the driver of another vehicle approaching from the rear shall not overtake or pass the stopped vehicle.
Staff
Prepared by: Councilmember Griswold
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor is committed to providing the safest right-of-way experience for pedestrians in our City;
Whereas, It may b...
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