Where You Should and Shouldn’t Walk or Cycle in Tennessee

by Michael D. Ponce

Last Updated January 5, 2024 In Bicycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident

When you walk or bike outside, it’s important to remember that not every part of town is safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Keep these tips in mind when you’re walking or cycling to stay safe:

• Avoid highways and interstates. It’s illegal to walk or bike on an interstate in Tennessee due to safety reasons. While it’s often legal for pedestrians and cyclists to use state highways, they’re not much safer than interstates. Whenever possible, choose alternate routes rather than major highways.
• When walking, stick to roads with sidewalks and crosswalks. If you have the choice between a longer route that’s pedestrian-friendly and a shorter route with no sidewalks or crosswalks, choose the pedestrian-friendly route. Pedestrians are significantly safer when they have access to sidewalks and crosswalks.
• Choose streets with bike lanes when cycling. One of the biggest dangers that bicyclists face when riding near traffic is being pushed out of their lanes by drivers. Bike lanes can help protect cyclists by giving them their own space when riding alongside traffic. As with walking, plan your route using streets with bike lanes to stay safe.
• Avoid walking or cycling during peak traffic hours if possible. If you’re walking or cycling for leisure or exercise, try to time your outings for periods when traffic is at its lowest. That means late morning, early afternoon, and late evening. Avoid the morning and evening rush hours and lunch time when possible.

WHAT ARE TENNESSEE’S RIGHT OF WAY LAWS FOR INTERSECTIONS AND CROSSWALKS AND HOW DO THEY IMPACT PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS?

In Tennessee, the right of way laws at intersections and crosswalks aim to protect pedestrians and cyclists by promoting safety and reducing the potential for conflicts and misunderstandings.

Here’s a brief description of these laws:

Pedestrians

Pedestrians have the right of way at all marked and unmarked crosswalks in Tennessee. Drivers are required to yield and allow pedestrians to cross safely.

Even though pedestrians have the right of way, they are also required to exercise caution and not enter the crosswalk if a vehicle is approaching and it is impossible for the driver to stop in time. In addition, pedestrians should use crosswalks where available and obey traffic signals.

Cyclists

Bicycles are considered vehicles when they are on the road and cyclists should follow the same rules as other drivers regarding the right of way at intersections.

When cycling on sidewalks or in crosswalks (where local laws permit), cyclists are often treated as pedestrians. They should yield the right of way to pedestrians and provide an audible signal before overtaking and passing a pedestrian.

These laws are designed to create a predictable environment for all road users. Both pedestrians and cyclists should remain alert and make eye contact with drivers when possible, ensuring that their intentions are clear.

CONTACT US AFTER AN INJURY WHILE WALKING OR CYCLING

At Ponce Law, we work hard to protect the rights of injured pedestrians and cyclists. If you or someone you love gets injured by a negligent driver, contact our Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation.

Originally published October 12, 2022.