California Pedestrian & Crosswalk Laws
Pedestrian safety is one of California's highest road safety priorities. Drivers have strict legal obligations when it comes to crosswalks and pedestrians, and violations carry heavy fines and license consequences.
Crosswalk Rules for Drivers
You must yield to pedestrians crossing at any marked crosswalk and at unmarked crosswalks (the implied extension of a sidewalk at any intersection). Stop before the limit line or crosswalk — not in it. Do not proceed until the pedestrian has completely crossed the lane you are in and the next lane. Never pass a vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian.
Blind Pedestrians
A pedestrian carrying a white cane (with or without a red tip) or using a guide dog has the right of way and is likely visually impaired. You must stop and remain stopped until they have completely crossed the road. Honking or revving your engine near a blind pedestrian is illegal.
Key Rules at a Glance
- Unmarked crosswalks: Pedestrians have right of way — yield and stop
- Passing a stopped vehicle at crosswalk: Never — a pedestrian may be crossing
- White cane or guide dog user: Stop and remain stopped until fully crossed
- When to proceed after stopping: After pedestrian clears your lane and the next lane