Understanding California pedestrian crosswalk laws is essential for staying safe and avoiding injuries. State law gives pedestrians the right of way when crossing the street using marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections. This means drivers must slow down or stop when a pedestrian is crossing or is about to cross the street, even if there are no painted lines.

Recent updates to California’s crosswalk laws, such as the Freedom to Walk Act, decriminalize safe jaywalking under certain conditions. Knowing and following these laws can help you share the road responsibly.

California’s Crosswalk Laws and the New Freedom to Walk Act

Under California law, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians who are crossing marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. A crosswalk exists at every intersection, even if there are no lines painted. Pedestrians have an obligation not to suddenly leave a curb or run into the path of a vehicle. Drivers are required to slow down and stop when necessary to ensure pedestrian safety. They cannot pass a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.

California’s Freedom to Walk Act, which took effect on January 1, 2023, changed how jaywalking laws are enforced across the state. The law allows pedestrians to cross the street outside of designated crosswalks when it is reasonably safe to do so, meaning they won’t be cited simply for crossing mid-block. Officers may only issue a citation if a pedestrian creates an immediate hazard or risk of collision.

The Act, also known as AB 2147, was designed to reduce unnecessary police stops and promote fairness, especially in communities disproportionately affected by jaywalking enforcement. The law acknowledges that not all communities have adequate crosswalk options.

While pedestrians now have greater freedom, the law still requires them to use caution and yield to oncoming traffic. Drivers are also expected to stay alert for pedestrians crossing legally or otherwise. The Freedom to Walk Act aims to improve safety and equity while easing tensions between pedestrians and law enforcement.

Understanding Crosswalk Injuries in California

In 2023, 13,237 pedestrians were injured in California. About 27 percent of California pedestrian fatalities in 2022 occurred at intersections and crosswalks. Most fatal pedestrian crashes happen after dark, and principal arterials account for the largest share of deadly collisions.

Common causes of injuries at crosswalks include speeding, drivers failing to yield while turning, impaired or distracted driving, poor nighttime lighting, and missing or poorly marked crossings. Typical injuries range from broken bones and skull fractures to traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, deep lacerations, and internal bleeding.

In Riverside County, several intersections see repeated pedestrian collisions: Magnolia Avenue and Tyler Street, University Avenue and Iowa Avenue, and Van Buren Boulevard and Philbin Avenue. These corridors have heavy traffic, multi-lane crossings, and short crossing windows, which increase the risk of severe crashes.

Why You Should Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you were injured while walking through a crosswalk, you need legal representation from a firm that has years or decades of experience handling pedestrian accident claims. Navigating pedestrian accident claims without the help of a California pedestrian accident attorney could be a costly mistake.

Insurance carriers are in the business of making profits, and they may take steps to minimize the compensation that you are owed or falsely blame you for causing the collision. When you hire a pedestrian accident lawyer, you gain representation from an advocate who cares about the outcome of your claim. An attorney can gather evidence and take decisive steps to prove that the negligent driver caused your injury and is liable for the harm you endured.

FAQs

Do You Have to Wait for a Pedestrian to Completely Cross the Street in California?

Yes. California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians who are within any portion of a marked crosswalk. You must wait until the pedestrian has safely cleared the lane before proceeding. Moving through the crosswalk while a pedestrian is still in the process of crossing can result in fines, as well as points added to your driving record.

What Is the New Law on Crosswalks in California?

California’s Freedom to Walk Act, which became effective early in 2023, allows pedestrians to cross the street outside a crosswalk when it is safe to do so. Police officers can no longer issue tickets to pedestrians for jaywalking unless their actions create an immediate hazard. Drivers are still required to yield to pedestrians within marked or unmarked crosswalks.

Can You Drive Through a Crosswalk in California if a Pedestrian Is in It?

No. You cannot drive through a crosswalk if a pedestrian is still crossing, even if they are not in your direct path. Drivers must remain stopped until the pedestrian has completely passed the driver’s half of the roadway. Proceeding too soon can be considered a failure to yield, which carries penalties under California Vehicle Code §21950. Both pedestrians and drivers have responsibilities to follow under state law.

Do You Have to Stop for Pedestrians Waiting at a Crosswalk?

Yes. When a pedestrian is standing at the curb and clearly waiting to cross, you must stop and allow them to enter the crosswalk. California law prioritizes pedestrian safety and requires drivers to anticipate that a person at the curb may begin crossing. As a pedestrian, if you are hit by a vehicle, you may have the right to take legal action against the driver who hit you.

Find Reliable Legal Counsel for Your Personal Injury Case

Pedestrian safety in California depends on awareness, patience, and mutual respect between drivers and those on foot. Even with laws like the Freedom to Walk Act, collisions can still occur when motorists fail to yield or pedestrians are not seen in time.

When a driver’s negligence leads to an injury, victims have the right to pursue compensation for their medical costs, lost wages, and pain. At Easton & Easton, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured pedestrians across California. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you secure the compensation you are owed.