Jaywalking Laws and Injuries in California

California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21955 states that “between adjacent intersections controlled by traffic control signal devices or by police officers, pedestrians shall not cross the roadway at any place except in a crosswalk.”

What are the Laws on Jaywalking in California?

Jaywalking refers to when a pedestrian crosses a road with marked crosswalks or a marked intersection but does so from a point other than the designated crosswalk. Jaywalking laws protect both pedestrians and automobile drivers from avoidable car accidents. Law enforcement officers are unlikely to arrest you for jaywalking, but they will likely issue a ticket if they see you. In California, jaywalking is an infraction, and a first offense will cost you a minimum fine of $196. The DMV will not assess points onto your driving record.

How Can I Stay Safe as a Pedestrian?

As a pedestrian, it is your duty and your responsibility to keep yourself safe. In addition to abiding by jaywalking rules, here are some safety tips you can follow to ensure your safety when walking:

• Carefully observe and obey all traffic signals
• Always fully stop and look both ways before crossing any road
• Never assume a driver will give you the right-of-way
• Wear brightly colored clothing to ensure that drivers see you; if walking at night, wear   reflective clothing
• Make eye contact with drivers through the window to ensure that the driver has seen you crossing
• Pay attention to your surroundings. Do not wear headphones or look down at your phone when crossing a road

What Should I do if I am Injured While Jaywalking?

Drivers and pedestrians must share the road. They also share the responsibility for keeping themselves and each other safe by staying alert and abiding by traffic rules. If you injure yourself while jaywalking or injure someone who is jaywalking, you must determine who was at fault or more at fault for the accident. 

Los Angeles Pedestrian Injury Lawyer

If you injure yourself while jaywalking, you will likely share some fault for the accident. This doesn’t mean you won’t receive compensation, but we recommend seeking help from a Los Angeles pedestrian injury lawyer to avoid full responsibility. If you or a loved one were injured while crossing the street, contact  KAASS LAW (310) 943-1171 for a free consultation.