VTL 1151-(b), “Pedestrian Proceeded Into Path of Vehicle”


Proper yielding depends on both parties' participation. A responsible driver yields to pedestrians in certain circumstances. This cannot be done if the pedestrian acts inappropriately. Simply put by the statute,

“No pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impractical for the driver to yield.” VTL 1151(b).

If a pedestrian’s actions, like the above example of running from the curb onto the street, hinders a driver’s ability to properly yield, the pedestrian will receive a ticket. This is one of the few traffic tickets that you can get without being behind the wheel of a car. It is a citation that is issued very rarely. This violation does not have points. The maximum fine is $150 and there is no surcharge. If you received this ticket, it probably makes sense to just pay it instead of fighting it.

There is a similar statute VTL 1152(c), known as “jaywalking.” The factual elements of the violation are similar. A ticket for Jaywalking under 1152-c is more common. It can be issued outright or be part of a negotiated plea bargain.

For any traffic related charges in New York, you can contact the Benjamin Goldman Law Office. We are a New York State traffic ticket defense firm. Our firm opened in 2011 in Sullivan County and since then we have expanded state-wide. As of 2024 we take on cases anywhere in the state. Our attorneys have handled cases in Brooklyn, in Plattsburgh at the Canadian border, and in Amherst, outside of Buffalo.

Other Traffic Violations We Handle

Disclaimer: All the content of this website has been prepared by Benjamin Goldman Law Office PC for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information on this website shall not be construed as an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create, nor shall the receipt of such information constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Our hope is that you will find the information useful and informative, and we would be happy to communicate with you and answer any questions you may have about our legal services. Readers should not act upon the information on this website, or decide not to act based upon the information on this website, without first seeking appropriate professional counsel from an attorney licensed in the home state of the drivers license of the person who received the relevant traffic citation.