Right-of-Way

Right-of-way refers to the legal right of a pedestrian, vehicle, or other entity to proceed with precedence over others in a specific area of public space. In accessibility, pedestrian right-of-way is critical because sidewalks, curb ramps, and crosswalks are essential pathways for people with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users and people who are blind. Obstructions to pedestrian right-of-way — from improperly parked micromobility vehicles to construction barriers — can force disabled people into dangerous situations such as navigating into traffic. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that public rights-of-way be accessible, making the protection of these pathways both a legal obligation and a fundamental accessibility concern.