Fort Worth, TX Public Conduct: Jaywalking (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- TX Transp Code Sec. 552.005
- Mid-block rule
- Yield to vehicles
- Signalized blocks
- Use marked crosswalks
- Penalty class
- Class C misdemeanor
- FW approach
- Vision Zero design focus
Summary
Pedestrian crossing rules in Fort Worth are governed by Texas Transportation Code Section 552.005, which requires pedestrians to yield to vehicles when crossing outside marked crosswalks and to use crosswalks where signals are present, with FWPD typically enforcing through warnings rather than aggressive citations.
Sec. 552.005. CROSSING AT POINT OTHER THAN CROSSWALK. (a) A pedestrian shall yield the right-of-way to a vehicle on the highway if crossing a roadway at a place:(1) other than in a marked crosswalk or in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection; or(2) where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead pedestrian crossing has been provided.(b) Between adjacent intersections at which traffic control signals are in operation, a pedestrian may cross only in a marked crosswalk.(c) A pedestrian may cross a roadway intersection diagonally only if and in the manner authorized by a traffic control device.
Full Breakdown
Texas Transportation Code Section 552.005 requires pedestrians crossing a roadway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection to yield the right-of-way to vehicles. Crossing between adjacent signalized intersections is prohibited except in a marked crosswalk. Section 552.003 also requires obedience to pedestrian-control signals. Fort Worth follows state law without adding a separate citywide jaywalking ordinance. FWPD generally focuses enforcement on dangerous conduct and high-injury corridors rather than routine mid-block crossings, and the city's Vision Zero program emphasizes safer street design over heavy pedestrian ticketing. Class C fines apply when citations are issued.
Violations & Fines
Crossing mid-block between signalized intersections, ignoring a Don't Walk signal, failing to yield to vehicles when crossing outside a crosswalk, or stepping into traffic suddenly triggers Class C citations under state law and possible negligence claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get a ticket for crossing the street mid-block in Fort Worth?
Are pedestrians always at fault if hit while jaywalking in Fort Worth?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Worth
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Fort Worth to another location·View the Texas public conduct overview
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