A new law aimed at safeguarding life safety and preventing traffic accidents will come into effect statewide in California on January 1st. The law, known as the “Daylighting Law” or AB413, prohibits stopping, standing, and parking within 20 feet of marked or unmarked crosswalks, with a 15-foot curb extension for sidewalks. On two-way roads, parking is only allowed on the right side in the direction of traffic, while on one-way streets, parking on both sides is prohibited.
The average length of a vehicle in the United States is about 14 feet, which means that intersection road curbs must leave approximately one and a half car lengths of space clear. This law applies to all intersections in the state, regardless of the presence of red curbs or no parking signs.
The aim of this legislation is to improve visibility for drivers, making it easier to see pedestrians, skateboarders, and other road users at intersections, while also enhancing visibility for pedestrians and other road users.
By increasing what traffic experts call “daylighting” visibility, this law is expected to reduce accidents and protect lives.
Law enforcement will issue warnings during the first 60 days of enforcement. From March 1, 2025, drivers found in violation of the law will face a $65 fine, plus a $12.50 state-mandated administrative fee, bringing the total to $77.50.
Studies have shown that enhancing visibility at pedestrian crossings can significantly reduce accidents involving pedestrians.
Currently, 43 states have similar “Daylighting Laws,” most of which prohibit parking within 20 feet of intersections.