NEWBERG, Ore. — Drivers in Oregon can be cited and fined up to $2,000 for failing to stop for a pedestrian.

That’s the law, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation, but it’s not the only reason it’s important to stop for pedestrians crossing the street.

In Oregon, every intersection — whether marked or unmarked — counts as a crosswalk, ODOT said. If a crosswalk is unmarked and there is a sidewalk or shoulder, the crosswalk is legally 20 feet wide across the roadway. If there is no sidewalk or shoulder, the crosswalk is at least 6 feet wide.

Crosswalks can also exist midblock, but only when marked by painted white lines.

A pedestrian is legally considered to be in a crosswalk when any part of their body moves into the roadway at a crosswalk with the intent to proceed.

Both drivers and pedestrians are expected to share the road and look out for one another.

“ODOT also works to improve visibility, upgrade crossings, enforce safety laws, and close locations that are proven to be unsafe,” said Mindy McCartt, a public information officer for ODOT. “It really takes all of us — drivers, pedestrians, and the transportation system — to keep people safe.”

For Drivers

Drivers are required to stop and remain stopped for pedestrians in crosswalks — including those using wheelchairs, strollers, canes, crutches, bicycles, pets, and other extensions of their person — until the pedestrian clears the driver’s lane and the next lane.

“For drivers, the key is staying alert and prepared,” McCartt said. “Slow down and be ready to stop when you approach any crosswalk or areas with heavy foot traffic, eliminate distractions like cell phones so you can focus on driving, watch carefully during low-light or rainy conditions, when visibility drops, and stopping distances increase.”

When a pedestrian is blind and using a white cane or guide dog, drivers must remain stopped until the person has completely crossed the roadway.

Under Oregon’s current fine schedule, the presumptive fine for a Class B traffic violation — such as failing to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk — is $265. If the offense is noted as occurring in a posted school zone, the presumptive fine increases to $525. Courts may impose additional surcharges, and the maximum fine for a Class B violation committed by an individual is $1,000.

For Pedestrians

Pedestrians also share responsibility for roadway safety.

“Pedestrians also play an important role in staying safe,” McCartt said. “Stay alert and avoid distractions like texting or headphones when crossing, make eye contact with drivers before stepping out, and continue scanning for turning vehicles even when you have the walk signal, increase your visibility — especially at dawn, dusk or night — by wearing bright or reflective clothing or carrying a light.”

Pedestrians should not step into moving traffic, even if they believe they have the right of way. Waiting until vehicles come to a complete stop is safer.

Pedestrians generally have the right of way in all crosswalks, and drivers are required to yield. However, pedestrians must still obey traffic signals and signs.

If a crosswalk signal indicates not to cross, vehicles have the right of way. Crossing against the signal negates a pedestrian’s right of way.

Jaywalking is illegal in Oregon, meaning pedestrians must use designated crosswalks or intersections when crossing the street.

Pedestrians should use available sidewalks, avoid walking in traffic lanes and be predictable in their movements by making eye contact with drivers or signaling intent by extending an arm or foot.

When no sidewalk is available, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic and stay as far left on the shoulder as possible.

At night, visibility improves when pedestrians wear bright or reflective clothing or carry a flashlight or headlamp. Staying alert by avoiding texting, wearing headphones or stepping out from between parked cars also reduces risk.