Whenever a special pedestrian control signal exhibiting the words "Walk" or "Don't Walk" or the illuminated symbols of a walking person or an upraised palm are in place, such signals shall indicate as follows:
A. Walk Or Walking Person Symbol: While the "walk" or "walking person" indication is illuminated, pedestrians facing such signal may proceed across the roadway in the direction of the signal and shall be given the right of way by the drivers of all vehicles.
B. Don't Walk Or Upraised Palm Symbol: While the "don't walk" or "upraised palm" symbol indication is illuminated, either steady or flashing, no pedestrian shall start to cross the roadway in the direction of the signal, but any pedestrian who has partly completed his crossing during the "walk" or "walking person" symbol indication shall proceed to a sidewalk or to a safety island if one is provided. (1976 Code §19-41)