California Bans Parking Near Pedestrian Crosswalks
هدف، افزایش دید و کاهش تلفات عابران پیاده
SACRAMENTO, CA – Starting January 1, 2025, California has banned parking within 20 feet (approximately 6 meters) of pedestrian crosswalks at intersections under a newly enacted law aimed at improving visibility and pedestrian safety.
The legislation, known as Assembly Bill 413 (AB 413), was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom and establishes a “daylighting zone” near intersections to enhance visibility for both drivers and pedestrians.
Improving Visibility for Pedestrians and Drivers
The increasing number of SUVs and large trucks on California roads has significantly reduced visibility at crosswalks and intersections, posing a serious risk to pedestrians and drivers of smaller vehicles.
AB 413 mandates a 20-foot buffer zone along curbs, prohibiting vehicles from parking too close to crosswalks, particularly in areas leading directly to pedestrian crossings. The restriction applies to both marked and unmarked crosswalks and is now enforced statewide.
Fines and Transition Period
To ease the transition, a 60-day grace period will be in effect from January 1 to March 1, 2025, allowing drivers time to adjust to the new regulations. Violators will face a fine of $65, plus an additional $12.50 in fees, totaling $77.50. While this penalty is higher than standard parking violations, it remains lower than fines for red-zone infractions.
Legislative Support and Safety Impact
The bill was authored by California Assemblymember Alex Tingming Lee, who emphasized the life-saving potential of AB 413.
“AB 413 will save lives and make our streets safer for everyone. Signing this law is a simple yet crucial step toward improving road safety in California. The pedestrian fatality rate in our state is nearly 25% higher than the national average. By increasing visibility at intersections, this bill will help prevent deadly accidents.”
With this new law in place, California aims to reduce pedestrian fatalities and improve street safety, making roads more navigable for all users
