Tennessee § 55-8-138 - Pedestrians on roadways.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-138 — Pedestrians on roadways., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 55-8-138. Pedestrians on roadways.
Except as provided in this section, where sidewalks are provided, it is unlawful for any pedestrian to walk or use a wheelchair along and upon an adjacent roadway. Where sidewalks are not provided or are obstructed, any pedestrian walking along and upon a highway shall, when practicable, walk only on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic that may approach from the opposite direction. Where sidewalks are not provided, are obstructed or are not wheelchair accessible, any person using a wheelchair along and upon a highway shall, when practicable, use the wheelchair on the left side of the roadway or its shoulder facing traffic that may approach from the opposite direction; provided, that a person using a wheelchair along and upon a highway may use the wheelchair on the right side of the roadway or its shoulder if it is convenient or reasonably necessary for travel by the person. A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1955, ch. 329, § 37; T.C.A., § 59-838; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2008, ch. 1144, § 3. Cross-References. Penalty for Class C misdemeanor, § 40-35-111 . Textbooks. Tennessee Jurisprudence, 4 Tenn. Juris., Automobiles, §§ 2, 11; 23 Tenn. Juris., Streets and Highways, § 22. Attorney General Opinions. Pedestrian and vehicular use of marked bicycle lanes. OAG 14-13, 2014 Tenn. AG LEXIS 14 (1/23/14).
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 55-8-138
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-138 cover?
Section 55-8-138 ("Pedestrians on roadways.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Tennessee § 55-8-138?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-8-138" (Tennessee). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 55-8-138 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.