Crosswalk Laws: Rights at Marked vs. Unmarked Intersections in Texas

Crosswalk laws in Texas are not limited to painted lines on the road. Many pedestrians are surprised to learn that legal crosswalks exist even when no markings are visible. Knowing the difference between marked and unmarked crosswalks helps explain when pedestrians have legal rights and what drivers are expected to do under Texas law.

In Austin and throughout Texas, crosswalk rules come from the Texas Transportation Code and apply on city streets, neighborhood roads, and major intersections.

A marked crosswalk is the most visible type of pedestrian crossing. It is usually outlined with painted lines, stripes, or other pavement markings. Some marked crosswalks also include pedestrian signals, signs, or flashing beacons.

Under Texas law, pedestrians generally have the right of way when they are lawfully inside a marked crosswalk. Drivers approaching the crosswalk must yield and allow the pedestrian to cross safely.

Pedestrians are still expected to follow traffic control devices. If a pedestrian signal shows a do not walk indication, entering the crosswalk may not be considered lawful.

Drivers must:

Failing to yield in a marked crosswalk can result in traffic citations and may be relevant in injury claims after a collision.

An unmarked crosswalk exists at most intersections, even when there are no painted lines. In Texas, an unmarked crosswalk is generally the area where sidewalks would extend across the street at an intersection.

If two streets intersect and there are no signs prohibiting pedestrian crossing, an unmarked crosswalk is usually present by law.

Pedestrians may have the right of way in unmarked crosswalks when:

However, pedestrians do not have unlimited rights. Texas law expects pedestrians to avoid suddenly stepping into traffic when vehicles are too close to stop safely.

Crossing in the middle of a block away from an intersection is not the same as using an unmarked crosswalk. Mid block crossings often require pedestrians to yield to vehicles, depending on the roadway and local ordinances.

Texas law does not require drivers to stop for pedestrians in every situation. Examples may include:

These distinctions are often closely examined after pedestrian collisions in Austin.

Whether a crosswalk was marked or unmarked can affect how fault is evaluated after a pedestrian injury. Insurance companies and investigators often look at:

Understanding crosswalk laws helps explain why liability is not always automatic for either party.

Internal links to these resources help readers explore how crosswalk laws fit into broader pedestrian safety issues.

Yes. Most intersections in Texas include unmarked crosswalks by law, even if no paint or signs are present.

Not always. Pedestrians must still obey traffic signals and avoid entering traffic when vehicles cannot safely stop.

In some situations, yes. Fault depends on factors like visibility, speed, traffic controls, and whether the pedestrian crossed lawfully.

Not necessarily. However, pedestrians crossing outside a crosswalk may be required to yield to vehicles, depending on the location and roadway.