Winston-Salem Crosswalk Laws & Pedestrian Safety

Transportation North Carolina 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of North Carolina

Winston-Salem, North Carolina requires drivers and pedestrians to follow city and state traffic regulations that affect crosswalks, signalized intersections, and pedestrian safety. This guide summarizes the controlling municipal code references, who enforces crosswalk rules, common violations, and practical steps to request markings, report hazards, or appeal a citation. It is written for residents, business owners, and visitors who need clear action steps in Winston-Salem.

Always yield to pedestrians who are already crossing in a marked crosswalk when you can do so safely.

Legal basis and applicable rules

The city's traffic and pedestrian requirements are codified in the City of Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances and applicable state statutes; local rules on signage, markings, and enforcement reference the municipal code and standard traffic regulations [1].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of crosswalk and pedestrian-related rules in Winston-Salem is carried out by the Winston-Salem Police Department and by city transportation or public works staff for traffic control devices and markings. The municipal code is the controlling ordinance for local requirements [1]. Specific monetary fines, escalation for repeat offences, and continuing penalties are not specified on the cited page [1].

If you receive a citation, follow the instructions on the ticket promptly to avoid additional penalties.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; see the municipal code for any listed penalties and follow ticket instructions for amounts and payment.
  • Appeals and review: procedures and time limits for contesting a traffic citation are not specified on the cited page; ticket notices typically list appeal steps or court contact information.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to correct signage/markings, court appearance, or injunctions may be applied; specifics are not specified on the cited page.
  • Inspection and complaints: report unsafe crossings or damaged markings to city transportation or police (see Help and Support / Resources below for official contacts).

Applications & Forms

The city does not publish a specific, standalone crosswalk-application form on the cited municipal code page; requests for new markings, signals, or traffic studies are typically handled through Transportation or Public Works project request processes and service request portals, which are listed in the Help and Support / Resources section below.

Common violations

  • Failing to yield to a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk.
  • Illegal passing of a stopped vehicle at a crosswalk.
  • Failure to obey pedestrian-control signals.

How to request improvements and report hazards

For new crosswalk markings, signal timing changes, or repair of faded paint and signage, submit a service request to the city Transportation or Public Works division or contact the Winston-Salem Police non-emergency line for immediate safety hazards. Use the official resources listed below to file requests, report blocked sightlines, or request traffic studies.

FAQ

Who must yield at a marked crosswalk?
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks; pedestrians should obey signals and avoid sudden entry into traffic.
How do I report a dangerous crosswalk or damaged signal?
Report hazards through the city transportation or public works service request channels listed in Help and Support / Resources below.
Can I request a new marked crosswalk near my business or school?
Yes; submit a formal request to the city transportation division. The city may require a study or assessment before approving markings or a signal.

How-To

  1. Identify the location, nearest address, and the safety concern or desired change.
  2. Gather supporting evidence: photos, times of day, and descriptions of pedestrian volumes or near-miss incidents.
  3. Submit a service request to the city transportation or public works division using the official portal or contact listed below.
  4. Follow up with the department contact and, if necessary, request the outcome or status in writing.

Key Takeaways

  • Drivers must exercise caution and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks to reduce collisions.
  • Requests for markings and signals typically require a formal city review or traffic study.
  • Use official city channels to report hazards and to obtain timelines for corrective action.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances - Municode

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