Pedestrian Laws and Enforcement
Introduction to Pedestrian Laws
A TV station had a story about the Los Angeles Police Department’s traffic-enforcement division having undercover officers or other decoys walk across the street with a gaggle of motorcycle officers hiding nearby. The motorists who did not stop for the jaywalkers were descended upon by the motorcycle cops, like a nest of hornets. Since when did jaywalkers have the right of way? Or is this another “only-in-L.A.” story?
Understanding Jaywalking Laws
In 2023, a new state law watered down what is illegal for pedestrians. Now, officers can cite pedestrians walking across a street mid-block only if unsafe; they shouldn’t cross if a vehicle must slow down. Before, walkers could, in some cases, get a ticket for crossing a road between intersections if merely outside a crosswalk or ignoring signs.
Pedestrian Right of Way
Drivers, of course, must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, even if unmarked — such as at intersections, even T-intersections. In crosswalks with no signals, pedestrians can cross so long as any driver has ample time to safely stop.
The LAPD says it did that enforcement, with people in street clothes crossing Ventura Boulevard on Dec. 9, as an effort to reduce pedestrians getting struck. These types of enforcement in the state, by the way, are not rare.
Statistics on Pedestrian Accidents
If some folks believe that type of enforcement is too aggressive, Honk understands that. But something needs to change. This year, through Dec. 11, in the San Fernando Valley alone, police say 39 people have been hit and killed, and 150 others seriously hurt.
Special License Plates
A reader, George O’Nan, from Costa Mesa, asked about 1984 Olympics license plates. He bought a set of those plates in 1984 and used them on his car. Several years ago, after not using them for a few years, he contacted the Department of Motor Vehicles about putting them on his car again. He was told by the DMV that he couldn’t.
DMV Response
Honk is curious why he was told that. Back in January, Katarina Snow, a DMV spokesperson, provided Honk with info on those plates after a San Clemente resident wanted to know if she could buy them now. She can’t — there was a small time frame back in the day when motorists could get them — but Snow did say at the time that those who have them can keep renewing the registration with them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pedestrians do have the right of way in certain situations, and drivers must yield to them. However, pedestrians also have a responsibility to cross the street safely. The LAPD’s enforcement efforts aim to reduce pedestrian accidents, and it is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to be aware of the laws and regulations.
FAQs
Q: Can pedestrians cross the street mid-block?
A: Yes, but only if it is safe to do so and vehicles do not have to slow down.
Q: Do drivers have to yield to pedestrians in unmarked crosswalks?
A: Yes, drivers must yield to pedestrians in all crosswalks, even if they are unmarked.
Q: Can I keep renewing my 1984 Olympics license plates?
A: Yes, according to the DMV, you can keep renewing the registration with those plates.
Q: How can I ask Honk questions?
A: You can reach Honk at honk@ocregister.com, and he will answer your questions in his column.
