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Many people walk around California’s busy streets every day. Walking is great for your health, and it helps the environment. But there are rules about where and how to cross the road. If you do not follow these rules, it is sometimes called “jaywalking.” The laws about jaywalking can be confusing, so read on to learn how a California personal injury lawyer can help you understand what is allowed in California—and what is not.
What Is Jaywalking?
“Jaywalking” generally means crossing a street where you are not supposed to. It happens when a person crosses outside of a crosswalk or suddenly steps into traffic where drivers do not expect someone to be. In California, there are specific laws that tell you where and how to cross safely. These laws are found mainly in the California Vehicle Code—sections such as § 21954, § 21955, § 21956, and others.
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When Do California Pedestrians Have the Right-of-Way?
Under § 21950 of the California Vehicle Code, if you are crossing inside a marked crosswalk or an intersection’s unmarked crosswalk, drivers must yield to you. But you still need to be careful. The law says pedestrians cannot suddenly step off the curb into the path of a vehicle if the driver does not have enough time to stop. Both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for keeping each other safe.
What If You Are Crossing Outside a Crosswalk?
- 21954 of the code covers what happens if you cross the road somewhere other than a crosswalk. In that case, you must yield the right-of-way to cars. That means you should wait until it is safe and let traffic pass if needed. Still, even if you are not in a crosswalk, drivers should pay attention and drive safely. But if you get hit while crossing illegally, you could be found partly at fault for the accident.
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What Does § 21955 Say About Controlled Intersections?
A “controlled intersection” is one with traffic signals or police officers directing traffic. § 21955 says you cannot cross the road between two controlled intersections—this usually means you should use a crosswalk or obey the signals. Police officers can only stop pedestrians for these violations if the crossing creates an “immediate danger of a collision.” So if you are crossing where you are not allowed—and it is dangerous—an officer might give you a ticket.
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Where Should You Walk On the Roadway?
Sometimes, there is no sidewalk. § 21956 says you should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic if you are outside a business or residential district. Again, police can only stop you if you create an immediate risk of a crash. This rule makes it easier for drivers to see you as you walk, keeping everyone safer.
What If a City Has Its Own Pedestrian Rules?
Local authorities can make their own pedestrian rules under § 21961. For example, a town might ban crossing certain streets except at crosswalks. If a local rule is broken and it is dangerous, the police can stop you. The purpose of these local rules is to protect pedestrians in areas that might have special hazards, like busy roads or construction zones.
Key Points About Jaywalking in California
- Stay in Crosswalks: Use marked crosswalks whenever possible.
- Obey Signals: Do not walk if the “DON’T WALK” sign is on unless allowed by the countdown timer, as in some newer laws.
- Yield to Cars: If crossing outside a crosswalk, you must wait until it is safe.
- Local Laws: Some cities have extra rules on where you can cross.
- Police Stops: Officers can only ticket you if you are creating an immediate danger.
- Pedestrian Duty: Even in a crosswalk, do not jump into traffic. You must be careful, too.
Why Do These Laws Exist?
Walking is healthy and environmentally friendly, but roads are also made for vehicles. The main goal behind these laws—such as § 21949 and § 21950—is to keep both pedestrians and drivers safe. They encourage people to cross where drivers expect them, reducing the chance of accidents. They also help keep traffic flowing by guiding people to intersections rather than crossing randomly in the middle of the block.
Could You Get a Ticket for Jaywalking?
Yes, you could. But note that officers often only give tickets if your crossing creates an immediate risk of a crash. However, ignoring the law can still lead to serious consequences—like injuries or even death. Some people get fined if they ignore traffic signals or crosswalks. The exact penalty might depend on your local city rules or how serious the situation was.
What If the Pedestrian Light Is Flashing “DON’T WALK”?
Under older rules, once the “DON’T WALK” signal starts flashing, you could not start crossing. But in certain places, if there is a countdown timer, you might still be able to cross. In People v. Monk, an amendment to Vehicle Code § 21456 was applied so pedestrians could begin crossing if the countdown had not expired. However, you should always check local signs because not all areas use the same signals.
How a California Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident—whether you were in a crosswalk or possibly jaywalking—a California car accident lawyer can help you figure out the next steps. They can:
- Gather evidence about traffic signals, crosswalk markings, or local ordinances.
- Investigate driver speed, any texting, or other distractions.
- Talk to witnesses and review police reports.
- Argue against claims that you were fully at fault if you did not cross at a crosswalk.
- Negotiate with insurance companies or take the case to court if needed.
The law can be complicated. Just because you crossed mid-block does not always mean you were the only one at fault. An attorney can sort out these details to help you recover damages if you were hurt.
Injured in a Pedestrian Accident? Contact Us Today!
Navigating California jaywalking laws can be confusing, especially when you have been hurt in an accident. Let our team at BANA LAW, PC help. We proudly serve all of California and Hablamos Español.
Call 855-997-6599 or contact us online for a FREE CONSULTATION. We do not charge fees unless we win your case. Injuries unravel your life—we piece it back together! Reach out now and find out how our experienced team can stand up for your rights.
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