Daylighting: California’s New Law Bans Parking Near Crosswalks

California Street Intersection at Sunset Showcasing Crosswalk Safety Measures

The new daylighting law enhances pedestrian safety by creating clear sightlines at intersections, preventing cars from parking within 20 feet of crosswalks throughout California. This significant change affects parking patterns in urban areas but dramatically reduces the risk of pedestrian accidents by improving visibility for both drivers and people crossing the street.

by
November 21, 2024

California has introduced a pedestrian safety measure that will fundamentally change how drivers park near intersections across the state.

What is the Daylighting Law?

The California Daylighting Law (Assembly Bill 413) is a critical road safety initiative that:

  • Prohibits parking within 20 feet of marked or unmarked crosswalks
  • Aims to improve visibility for both pedestrians and drivers
  • Went into effect on January 1, 2024
  • Warnings started on November 11, 2024.
  • Citations (starting at $40) will be issued starting January 1, 2025.

 

Key Implementation Details

Legal Specifics:

  • Creates a new section in the California Vehicle Code (CVC 22500(n))
  • Applies to both marked and unmarked crosswalks
  • Covers two-way and one-way streets differently:
    • Two-way streets: Only right-side approach affected
    • One-way streets: Both left and right curb areas restricted

 

Practical Implications

Parking Changes:

  • Leave 20 feet (approximately one car length) from crosswalks
  • Follow local red curb or signage restrictions
  • Be extra cautious in dense urban areas

 

Community Perspectives

Resident Reactions:

  • Safety advocates strongly support the law
  • Some drivers concerned about parking challenges
  • General consensus: pedestrian safety trumps parking convenience

 

Conclusion

The Daylighting Law represents a significant step towards creating safer, more pedestrian-friendly streets in California. While it may require some adjustment, the potential to save lives makes this a critical public safety measure.

Pro Tip: Always leave at least one car length between your vehicle and any crosswalk to comply with the new law and promote street safety.

Also See

California’s Plastic Bag Ban 2.0: What You Need to Know About SB 1053

Brain Data Not for Sale in California: How SB 1223 Safeguards Your Neural Privacy

$50M California Gas Settlement: Who’s Eligible & How to File Your Claim

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail