California Cracks Down on Intersection Parking to Boost Safety
Starting January 1st, 2025, California drivers will face a important change in parking regulations designed to enhance pedestrian safety. A new state law, AB 413, commonly known as the “daylighting” law, prohibits parking within 20 feet of any crosswalk, marked or unmarked, at all intersections statewide.
This sweeping change aims to improve visibility at intersections,a crucial factor in preventing accidents. By creating more “daylight,” or clear sightlines, drivers will have a better view of pedestrians, cyclists, and skateboarders, substantially reducing the risk of collisions. “The goal is simple: to make our intersections safer for everyone,” explains a spokesperson for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
The law’s impact extends beyond Los Angeles; it applies to every intersection across the state. This is a significant departure from previous regulations, which often relied on red curbs or specific no-parking signs. Now, the 20-foot restriction is universal.
Enforcement and Penalties
To allow drivers time to adjust, law enforcement will issue warnings only for the first 60 days following the law’s implementation. Though, starting March 1, 2025, violations will result in a $65 fine, plus a $12.50 state administrative fee, totaling $77.50.considering the average U.S. vehicle is approximately 14 feet long, the new law requires roughly one and a half car lengths of clearance at intersections.
“Studies consistently show that increased visibility at crosswalks dramatically reduces pedestrian accidents,” notes a traffic safety expert. “This law is a proactive step towards making California’s roads safer.”
California joins 43 other states that have already implemented similar daylighting laws, most with a similar 20-foot restriction. This widespread adoption underscores the effectiveness of this approach to improving road safety.
The new law represents a significant commitment to pedestrian safety in California. By increasing visibility and reducing blind spots at intersections, AB 413 aims to save lives and make California’s roads safer for everyone.
California’s “Daylighting” Law: A Step Toward Safer Streets?
Today we’re joined by traffic safety expert Dr. Emily Carter to discuss California’s new “daylighting” law,AB 413, which goes into effect on January 1st, 2025. Welcome, Dr. Carter.
Dr. Carter: Thanks for having me.
Senior Editor: For our readers who may not be familiar, can you explain what the daylighting law entails?
Dr. Carter: Essentially, it prohibits parking within 20 feet of any crosswalk in California.This applies to all intersections, not just those with marked crosswalks. The idea is to create more “daylight” or clear sightlines for drivers,allowing them to see pedestrians,cyclists,and others more easily.
Senior Editor: What prompted this change in California’s parking regulations?
Dr. Carter: Pedestrian safety is a major concern. studies consistently show that limited visibility at intersections significantly increases the risk of accidents. This law aims to address that directly by making sure drivers have a clear view of anyone approaching a crosswalk.
Senior Editor: You mentioned studies. Is there evidence that daylighting laws actually improve safety?
Dr. Carter: absolutely. Numerous studies have shown that daylighting laws help reduce pedestrian accidents. California joins 43 other states that already have similar laws in place, moast with the same 20-foot restriction. This widespread adoption shows that it’s a proven, effective strategy for enhancing safety.
Senior Editor: The article mentions a 60-day grace period with warnings instead of tickets. When will enforcement begin, and what are the penalties for violating the law?
Dr. Carter: Starting March 1, 2025, drivers who park within 20 feet of a crosswalk will face a $65 fine plus a $12.50 administrative fee, totalling $77.50. It’s vital for people to be aware of this new law and adjust their parking habits accordingly.
Senior Editor: Do you think this law will make a noticeable difference in pedestrian safety?
dr. Carter: I truly believe it will. while it’s just one piece of the puzzle,it’s a significant step towards making our roads safer for everyone. Increased visibility at intersections saves lives, plain and simple.
Thank you for sharing your insights with us today, Dr. Carter. We appreciate your time.
