By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–Starting January 1, a new law will go into effect for drivers in the city of San Diego.
The statewide “daylighting” law, designed to enhance pedestrian safety at intersections by banning parking within 20 feet of corners to improve visibility, will take effect on January 1, 2025.
The law, passed by the California state legislature as Assembly Bill 413, pertains to all intersections throughout the City of San Diego and the state. Vehicle parking will not be allowed within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk. This rule applies whether or not there is a red curb or no parking signage at the intersection.
The purpose is to improve the range of vision of approaching drivers, so they can see pedestrians, skateboarders, and others in the intersection.
For the first 60 days, San Diego Police will issue warnings to individuals violating the law. Starting March 1, motorists could face citations. The fine for a ticket is $65, with an additional state-mandated administrative fee of $12.50, bringing the total to $77.50—the same amount charged for parking at a red curb in San Diego.
“It is important for San Diegans and visitors to be aware of and comply with this new state law,” said Transportation Department Director Bethany Bezak. “It may take some time for San Diegans to get accustomed to it, but together we can make our roadways safer for all users.”
The average length of an automobile in the United States is approximately 14 feet. To help estimate 20 feet, it may be helpful to envision about one car length and a half’s worth of distance.
Studies have shown that drivers have greater visibility at crosswalks, and crashes involving pedestrians can be easily avoided.
The law will also help move the City toward its Vision Zero goals, a concept adopted by many cities worldwide, aimed to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries for all road users.
Nationwide, 43 states already have daylighting laws, and most prohibit parking within 20 feet of an intersection.
