Jaywalking Laws in California

Speak to Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Los Angeles About Jaywalking Laws

When you leave your car in the garage and take a walk downtown, you expect to safely get to your next destination. But, if you fail to follow certain laws pertaining to where you can properly and safely cross a street, you may find the opposite to be true. According to 2017 data from the CDC, pedestrians in the United States are killed in auto accidents once every 88 minutes. Rather than let a simple stroll turn into a tragedy, it is best to keep in mind various jaywalking laws that exist in California. If you or a loved one have been injured while walking in and around the streets of California, contact a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer from Gutierrez Law.

Searching for a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

California Vehicle Code 21955 states jaywalking is an act of crossing a street that contains no clearly marked crosswalks or intersections. Though most people make light of jaywalking as an illegal act, the fact is the state of California does take it very seriously due to the many dangers associated with it. Unfortunately, most drivers do not give pedestrians the consideration they deserve. That’s why it’s vital to search for a pedestrian accident lawyer in Los Angeles, who victims trust from Gutierrez Law.

Risks and Penalties

Those who take jaywalking lightly and assume they won’t get reprimanded are often surprised to learn the opposite could occur. Based on current state laws, pedestrians can receive a ticket as high as $250. Should other violations be discovered, the fine could be doubled to $500. Make every effort to follow the laws in place. If you were struck by a vehicle while crossing the street, meet with our legal team once you’ve received medical care. We will fight aggressively for your rights.

When Can Police Charge You with Jaywalking?

Since most people are unfamiliar with basic jaywalking laws in California, they are often confused and surprised when police decide to issue them a ticket. In the event there are no road markings or crosswalks, there must be either a police officer directing traffic or signals at the intersection. Since jaywalking rules are strictly enforced, police do not hesitate to issue tickets.

What if I'm Struck by a Car While Jaywalking?

If you are struck by a vehicle while in the process of jaywalking, do not think this means you cannot gain compensation for your injuries. Due to California having laws pertaining to comparative negligence, this means that even if you were cited for jaywalking, you can still be entitled to receive partial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. If you were partially at fault and still decide to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, you as the plaintiff will need to show the driver was also responsible for the accident. An attorney for jaywalking accidents can help you develop a thorough legal strategy that can minimize your role in the accident, resulting in a potentially larger settlement.

Is Jaywalking Ever Acceptable?

There are rare circumstances where jaywalking is acceptable in California. However, pedestrians must make this decision with a full understanding of the consequences that could ensue after an accident.

For example, if you are believed to have used care and caution, you may cross the street if there is no intersection nearby. But if you are at an intersection, even if it is unmarked, jaywalking laws apply. As a pedestrian, even when an oncoming car has more than enough time to stop, you shouldn’t step off the curb and walk across the street. If you do this in an unmarked intersection, you are committing a jaywalking violation. Regardless of how you sustained your injuries, it shouldn’t deter you from seeking compensation.

Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In other cases, pedestrians who’ve suffered life-threatening injuries later die in the hospital or get killed from combined speed and impact. Surviving family members are left mourning the loss of their loved ones while expenses increase from medical bills, treatments, and funeral costs. Even if the victim died for jaywalking, other factors in the accident might place more blame on the opposing driver. Since these cases can often be extremely complex and involve many different versions of what may have transpired, rely on the sound advice of Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyers from Gutierrez Law to help navigate the complex legal process.

Pedestrian accidents happen every day in the greater Los Angeles area. If you or a loved one were struck while crossing a street, do not hesitate to seek significant financial compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering. We can discuss your case in greater detail when you book a free consultation with our trusted Los Angeles personal injury lawyer at Gutierrez Law.