Ask NRMA: Must pedestrians obey road rules?
Roads aren’t only for motorists and cyclists - they are for pedestrians too. As with cars, there are a number of rules, some better known than others, that govern how pedestrians use the road - as well as fines for breaking them.
What are the road rules for pedestrians?
Part 14 of Road Rules 2014 covers pedestrians. Some of the key rules in this section are:
230 Crossing a road - general
1. A pedestrian crossing a road:
(a) must cross by the shortest safe route, and
(b) must not stay on the road longer than necessary to cross the road safely.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
236 Pedestrians not to cause a traffic hazard or obstruction
1. A pedestrian must not cause a traffic hazard by moving into the path of a driver. Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
2. A pedestrian must not unreasonably obstruct the path of any driver or another pedestrian.
238 Pedestrians travelling along a road (except in or on a wheeled recreational device or toy)
1. A pedestrian must not travel along a road if there is a footpath or nature strip adjacent to the road, unless it is impracticable to travel on the footpath or nature strip.
Read the full road rules for pedestrians.
Most of the rules for pedestrians are taught to us as children. However, pedestrian deaths continue to be significant. As the road is a shared zone, it is important that all users respect and adhere to the rules to make it the safe place that it can be.
Do you obey these road rules?
