Lesson 7 · Trucks, bikes and buses
What if someone crosses mid-block at night?
Short answer
Slow down and stop if needed. Even when a person is not in a crosswalk, drivers must take care to avoid hitting them.
Watch it play out
How to do it
- Drive slower at night so you can stop within the area your headlights show.
- Scan the edges of the road and the light.
- Slow down or stop for anyone in or near the road.
- Use high beams on empty dark roads, and dim them for other drivers.
Why the rule works this way
Most pedestrian deaths happen at night. A person in dark clothing can be invisible until you are very close.
Common mistakes
- Driving faster than you can see to stop.
- Assuming someone outside a crosswalk will get out of your way.
Questions people ask
Who is at fault if they cross outside a crosswalk?
It depends on the state and the situation. Every driver still has a duty to avoid hitting people.