California Vehicle Code 2815
Safety is the number one concern when making your daily commute each and every day. Drivers must pay attention, adhere to the rules, stay alert, and most importantly use extreme caution while traveling in school zones. School crossing guards play a vital role in the well-being of many children that cross millions of streets every morning. Their presence on the streets should bring a constant reminder to the level of care that is needed when driving in a school zone. As a driver, our responsibilities when we see a school crossing guard are to: STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, and THINK
- Stop and obey all commands given by a school crossing guard
- Make eye contact with the crossing guard to ensure you are both on the same page
- Allow enough space in front of your vehicle for pedestrians and crossing guards to operate
CVC Section 2815 sets forth the laws regarding Failure to Obey School Crossing Guard. No one should ignore a traffic signal or any instruction given by a school crossing guard. Any person who shall disregard a traffic signal or direction given by an authorized personnel risks a minimum fine of $284 and a point added to their driving record.
The California Driver Handbook suggests proper measures while driving and walking to assist in safe crossing:
Drivers
- Slow down.
- Drive alert. Look for pedestrians.
- Never pass a car stopped for pedestrians.
Pedestrians
- Be predictable. Cross at the crosswalks or intersections whenever possible.
- Be safe, be seen. Wear bright colors during the day; wear reflective material or carry a light at night.
- Make eye contact. Never assume drivers see you.
Tips for Child Pedestrian Safety
According to the CDC, one in every 15 children who died in traffic-related accidents were pedestrians. Parents can reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents by teaching their children about pedestrian safety. Below are tips for keeping your child safe when he or she is walking to school, to a friend’s home, or with you:
- As adults we have to lead by example, in doing so, sometimes, we are the first teachers that our children experience. We should always set an example by not texting and driving, using measures when walking them to and from school, and putting away our devices rather than having them in our hands
- We should always hold their hands when close to the roadway until about 10 years of age
- Teach children to use a sidewalk or walkway whenever available. If there is no sidewalks available, walk facing oncoming traffic on the far left
- It is very important to always cross at street corners, making sure to utilize traffic signals and crosswalks for a safer guided walk
- Always look left and right in both directions of oncoming traffic before stepping on or off a curb to cross
- Any and all electronic devices should be securely placed away from the child’s hand to not distract them
- Some children may feel the need to use headphones or electronic devices, please encourage them to prohibit or limit use at a crosswalk or, if not possible, please make sure that they lower the sound, and make eye contact with the driver so that the child and driver are aware of the decision to cross
- For more information about teaching your children safe pedestrian practices, you can visit the California Office of Traffic Safety or California Highway Patrol websites.
We are Here to Help
Have you recently received a California traffic ticket under CVC 2815? Contact our office to discuss how we can help you avoid court, fines, and increased insurance rates. You can also take advantage of our free ticket review.