What defines a "public right of way"?

A public right of way is generally defined as a roadway or area that is open for use by the general public without any restrictions. This means that anyone can access and use this space for transportation, travel, or movement. The features of a public right of way typically include the absence of gates or barriers that prevent public access and the allowance for varied types of users, including vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

The other options describe scenarios that do not fit the definition of a public right of way. A private road owned by an individual restricts access, as it is not available for public use, while a limited access highway has controlled access points and is not entirely open for all types of travel along its length. Additionally, a path used exclusively by pedestrians does not qualify as a comprehensive right of way, since it restricts its use solely to one category of users rather than accommodating the general public as a whole.