The situation at uncontrolled pedestrian crossings often confuses drivers. The pedestrian has almost crossed the roadway but is still on the markings. At this moment, many drivers hesitate: can they start moving, or must they wait until the person has completely left the 'zebra'?

RBC-Ukraine analyzed the current Traffic Rules and the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses to provide a clear answer to this question.

The main misconception of drivers

The most common mistake is that drivers believe they can only start moving after the pedestrian has completely crossed the road and stepped onto the sidewalk. In reality, the Traffic Rules do not contain a general requirement to wait until the pedestrian leaves the crossing.

The key factor here is not the person's physical location relative to the markings, but the safety of their movement.

What it means to 'yield' according to the letter of the law

The answer lies in the definition of the concept 'yield', enshrined in paragraph 1.10 of the Traffic Rules. According to this paragraph, the requirement to 'yield' means a prohibition on continuing or resuming movement if this may force other road users who have the right of way to change their speed or direction.

Thus, the decisive factor is not whether the pedestrian has completely crossed the road, but whether the vehicle will create an obstacle for them. If starting to move forces the pedestrian to:

  • stop;
  • accelerate;
  • change direction of movement.

then the requirement to 'yield' is considered unfulfilled.

When can you continue moving

If the vehicle does not force the pedestrian to change their speed or direction of movement, the requirement is considered fulfilled. This means that if the pedestrian is already at a sufficient distance from your vehicle, and your movement will not create an obstacle for them, the driver has the right to continue on their way, even if the person is still on the crossing markings.

Paragraph 18.1 of the Traffic Rules obliges a driver approaching an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing to reduce speed, and if necessary, stop. However, as soon as the threat of an obstacle disappears, waiting is no longer required.

Liability for violation

It is important to understand that ignoring the priority of a pedestrian at a crossing is an administrative offense. If a driver fails to yield, this is classified as a violation of Part 1 of Article 122 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses.

Thus, the answer in each specific situation depends not on whether the pedestrian has completely left the 'zebra', but on whether they retain priority and whether the vehicle creates an obstacle for them. Safety and the absence of forced maneuvers on the part of the pedestrian are the main criteria for the driver.