California is set to enforce a new law aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety by improving visibility at crosswalks in high-traffic areas. The law, known as AB413 or the “daylighting” law, takes effect in a matter of weeks and will restrict parking within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk throughout the state.
This legislation arises from growing concerns in neighborhoods like Linda Vista, where local streets like Fulton and Lavant are bustling with cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Residents report frequent close calls between drivers and pedestrians due to limited visibility around crosswalks that often have cars parked too close to allow clear sightlines.
John Barrett, a long-time Linda Vista resident, described the situation: “Drivers are usually focused on where they’re going, not on pedestrians who might be waiting to cross behind a parked car.” Barrett and his wife, Gabriella, have witnessed multiple near-misses at these intersections. Gabriella also notes that increased construction and population growth have exacerbated the scarcity of parking spots, sometimes leading drivers to park dangerously close to crosswalks.
Under the new law, both personal and commercial vehicles will be prohibited from parking within 20 feet of crosswalks, marked or unmarked, whether the curbs are painted red or not. By ensuring clearer sightlines for both drivers and pedestrians, this rule change is expected to reduce accidents and near-misses, making California’s streets safer for everyone.
As enforcement rolls out statewide, the daylighting law serves as a reminder of California’s commitment to pedestrian safety amid ongoing urban development and evolving traffic demands.
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