Fail to Yield Right of Way to a Pedestrian in a Crosswalk

Failure to yield the right of way to a pedestrian crossing a crosswalk is considered a violation of traffic rules in most states in the United States. Despite strict regulations, however, many drivers fail to yield to pedestrians and motorists, which results in many road accidents across the nation every year. There are a number of ways drivers may fail to yield the right of way, and in each case, they are likely to face heavy penalties and fines.

Laws in Missouri

Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians in a crosswalk. The law also requires that a driver of a vehicle should not cross any other vehicle that has stopped at a marked crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to cross the road. Drivers should not cross the marked crosswalk when someone is crossing the road, even if the traffic control signal shows a green light to the driver.

Fines and Penalties

If a driver fails to yield the right of way to a pedestrian when traffic signals are not working, he or she may be fined up to $200. Some violations, especially the second and the third ones, may result in higher penalties and fines, and the guilty driver may even be put behind the bars. Simply put, there are provisions for higher penalties and fines for more serious offences. For instance, if a pedestrian suffers injury as a result of a driver's failure to yield right of way, it may establish grounds for a lawsuit.

Demerit Points on Driving Records

Failing to yield the right of way usually carries at least two demerit points. The more serious the offence, the higher will be the demerit points. Not to mention, this points add up to a driver's license, and may even lead to cancellation of the license. Also, demerit points on one's license are considered as one of the important factors when calculating vehicle insurance premiums. This means that a driver with higher demerit points may need to pay higher premiums for car insurance.

Contacting a Lawyer

If you have been injured by a driver who failed to yield the right of way, contact an experienced injury lawyer at The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. .n order to ensure that you get the damages that you deserve.

Call (314) 361-4242 for a free consultation.