Many people cross streets without using a crosswalk. Some call it jaywalking. Others see it as a quick way to get across. In California, this simple act has caused debate for years. State law once treated it as a traffic violation. Officers gave tickets, even when no cars were near.
That changed in 2023. A new law gave people more freedom to walk. Lawmakers wanted to fix unfair rules. They said the old system hurt poor communities the most. As of 2025, that law still stands. It protects safe walkers and focuses on real danger.
This article explains what jaywalking means under California law in 2025. It tells you what you can do and what you must avoid. It also helps you understand your rights as a pedestrian. If you walk in the state, this guide will keep you informed and safe.
What Is Jaywalking?
Jaywalking means crossing a street in a place not marked for pedestrians. It includes walking across a road between intersections. It also includes crossing against a red light or walking in front of oncoming cars. Police officers have the right to stop or fine people who break pedestrian laws.
California used to treat jaywalking as an infraction. It carried a fine that could reach hundreds of dollars. Many people, especially in urban neighborhoods, got tickets just for walking across a street with no cars in sight.
The issue raised concern over time. Critics said the law hurt poor communities. It also added pressure to court systems and police. Lawmakers decided it was time to fix the problem.
The Freedom to Walk Act
California changed its jaywalking law in January 2023. Assembly Bill 2147 took effect across the state. Lawmakers called it the Freedom to Walk Act. The goal was to stop unfair tickets for safe street crossings.
Under the new law, police cannot stop someone just for crossing outside a crosswalk. Officers must see real danger. That includes stepping into traffic or blocking a car. If the road is clear and the person walks safely, no ticket is given.
This law gave more freedom to walkers. It also reduced police stops for minor actions. People gained more control over how they move through city streets.
What the Law Says in 2025
In 2025, the rules under AB 2147 remain in place. Safe jaywalking is no longer illegal. People can cross streets outside crosswalks without fear of tickets. But they must use good judgment.
You cannot walk in front of moving cars. You cannot step into the road in a way that forces drivers to stop fast. If your actions cause danger, police can still issue a fine.
The law does not let you ignore traffic signals. You must obey red lights, walk signs, and other street rules. The Freedom to Walk Act only protects safe and careful crossing.
Where the Law Applies
This law applies in every part of California. Cities and counties must follow state rules. That includes Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, and all small towns. Local laws cannot go against the state law.
Some areas may post signs that ban street crossing. You must follow those signs. Streets near schools, highways, or work zones may have extra rules. Even in those places, police must still act fairly and use good judgment.
Who Supports the Law
Many civil rights groups supported the change. The decriminalization of jaywalking was part of a larger justice effort. Groups like the ACLU and local activists saw the old rules as unfair. They believed that jaywalking laws gave police too much power over minor acts.
Supporters also pointed to safety. They said police should focus on reckless drivers, not safe walkers. They pushed lawmakers to rethink how we use roads. Streets are for cars and people, they argued. This law helped shift that balance.
What Critics Say
Some groups still question the law. They worry it could increase accidents. They fear that more people will take risks when crossing streets. These critics want clear rules that stop unsafe actions before they happen.
Police unions and traffic officers voiced concerns early on. They said the law took away an important tool. Some warned that cities would see more pedestrian injuries. So far, the data does not show a big change in safety, but the debate continues.
Penalties in Unsafe Cases
People can still get fined if they cross in a way that causes danger. The amount depends on where it happens and how risky it was. Some cities charge over $200. If the act leads to a crash, it could end up in court.
Police do not stop someone just for leaving the sidewalk. They must see real danger. That includes stepping into fast cars or blocking traffic. Officers may give a warning or take no action at all.
The law allows officers to use judgment. It also protects those who cross the road with care and follow safe steps.
How to Cross Safely in California
Even with more freedom, smart choices matter. Follow these tips to stay safe and avoid trouble:
- Look both ways before crossing.
- Make sure cars stop or slow down before stepping into the street.
- Avoid crossing in the dark without bright clothes or lights.
- Use crosswalks when they are nearby.
- Never cross a highway or high-speed road outside a crosswalk.
Common sense protects your life. The law gives you more rights, but you still must stay alert.
Can Drivers Blame Pedestrians?
Drivers often ask who holds fault if a person jaywalks. In most cases, both sides must act with care. California law expects drivers to watch the road and avoid harm. At the same time, pedestrians cannot dart into traffic or act without caution.
If a crash happens, courts review video, witness reports, and police notes. They look at speed, road signs, and both parties’ actions. Sometimes the pedestrian shares blame. Other times, the driver holds full fault.
Insurance claims and lawsuits can follow. So even if jaywalking is no longer illegal in many cases, careless moves still carry risks.
Can You Still Get a Ticket?
Police still have the power to give tickets if your actions break traffic rules. They must believe you created a real risk. Quiet, careful crossing is not the problem. Running into traffic or stepping in front of fast cars can lead to a fine.
The law does not protect reckless behavior. It protects people who cross with care. Police across the state have received training on these new rules. Most follow them, but some may still make mistakes.
If you receive a ticket, you have the right to fight it in court. Judges often drop charges if your actions followed the law under AB 2147.
Will the Law Change Again?
California laws can change at any time. As of mid-2025, no new updates have been made to pedestrian rules. Lawmakers may study traffic data later this year. They might adjust the law if safety problems show up. Right now, the Freedom to Walk Act remains in effect.
If changes happen, legal blogs and news outlets will share the updates. Always check trusted sources or state websites to stay informed.
Conclusion
Jaywalking is no longer treated as a major offense in California. The law now supports safer and fair rules. You may cross outside a crosswalk if you do it safely. Police will only act if your move creates real danger.
This change gives people more freedom to walk. It also helps reduce unfair tickets. Still, you must stay careful. Walking into traffic can lead to harm or legal trouble.
Roads serve both drivers and walkers. The Freedom to Walk Act protects that balance. Know the rules. Stay alert. Always choose safety when you cross a street in California.
If you receive a ticket, you have the right to fight it in court. Learn how to find the best traffic lawyer near you and protect your rights.
Know Before You Act:
This content gives general information. It does not give legal advice. Talk to a licensed lawyer about your case. Laws can change at any time.