What is Jaywalking?

What is jaywalking? It’s a term you’ve likely heard, but what does it really mean? Jaywalking refers to crossing a street or roadway outside of designated crosswalks or ignoring traffic signals. While it might seem like a harmless shortcut, it can result in accidents, fines, or even legal trouble. At Parnall Law in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we’re committed to helping you stay informed about pedestrian safety to protect yourself and others. This blog will delve into the concept of jaywalking, its legal status in New Mexico, its dangers, and the reasons people continue to engage in it despite the risks.

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What is Jaywalking?

Jaywalking refers to crossing a street unlawfully, such as disregarding traffic signals or stepping outside designated crosswalks. The term originated in the early 1900s during a public safety campaign aimed at reducing pedestrian-related accidents. At the time, the word “jay” was a slang term for someone considered naive or foolish, and it was used to describe individuals who entered roadways carelessly, disregarding their own safety.

Today, the term generally refers to pedestrians violating traffic laws designed to protect both walkers and drivers. According to the Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute, jaywalking occurs when a pedestrian unlawfully crosses a roadway. This could include crossing at an unmarked location, ignoring “walk/don’t walk” signals, or disrupting the normal traffic flow.

While jaywalking might seem minor, it can have serious consequences. The likelihood of incidents significantly increases in areas with heavy traffic, high-speed roads, or poor pedestrian visibility. Individuals who jaywalk are at greater risk of being hit by vehicles, and these accidents can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. For drivers, the unexpected behavior of jaywalkers can lead to sudden braking or swerving, increasing the risk of collisions with other vehicles.

Even in less busy areas, this can carry legal and financial penalties. Understanding and following pedestrian safety laws is essential for reducing these risks and ensuring safer streets for everyone.

Is Jaywalking Illegal in New Mexico?

Yes, jaywalking is illegal in New Mexico. The state’s law outlines specific rules for pedestrian behavior to guarantee everyone’s safety on the road. Pedestrians are required to use crosswalks whenever available and to obey all traffic control devices, such as walk/don’t walk signals. If you choose to cross outside of a marked crosswalk, you must yield the right of way to vehicles, according to traffic regulations.

Failing to follow these rules can lead to fines or citations. While the penalties for jaywalking in New Mexico may not seem severe, they can quickly escalate in situations where it leads to accidents or injuries. Pedestrians may also be found partially or fully at fault in a personal injury case if their jaywalking contributed to an incident.

For example, the Traffic Safety Store explains that jaywalking laws vary by state and municipality, and enforcement generally depends on local law enforcement practices. In Albuquerque, you may face additional scrutiny for jaywalking in busy areas, especially near schools or intersections with heavy traffic.

Why Jaywalking is Dangerous?

Jaywalking is dangerous because it puts pedestrians and drivers at unnecessary risk of accidents. Individuals who cross streets unpredictably can startle drivers, causing them to swerve or brake suddenly, potentially leading to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. In New Mexico, where roadways usually have high speed limits and wide intersections, crossing outside of designated areas increases the chance of accidents.

In fact, jaywalking is a major contributor to pedestrian injuries and fatalities nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, over 7,000 individuals were killed in traffic accidents in the United States, many of which were related to jaywalking or improper street crossings. Also, nighttime jaywalking is especially hazardous because reduced visibility makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.

The DriveSafe blog explains that drivers may not expect individuals to cross at random locations, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or poor lighting. This element of surprise can lead to tragic outcomes for both drivers and pedestrians.

As a personal injury law firm, we’ve seen the devastating impact of pedestrian-related accidents firsthand. By following the laws and using crosswalks, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a traffic incident.

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Why Do People Jaywalk?

Despite its risks and legal consequences, people often jaywalk because it feels more convenient or faster than walking to a designated crosswalk. Pedestrians may jaywalk for various reasons, including impatience, lack of awareness about traffic laws, or the perception that the action is harmless.

Some of the most common reasons people jaywalk include:

• Time Savings: Many individuals prioritize convenience over safety. Walking to the nearest crosswalk can feel like an unnecessary hassle, especially when the destination is directly across the street. For those in a rush, it may seem like the quickest option.
• Lack of Crosswalks: In some areas, crosswalks are spaced far apart or may not exist at all. This is especially true in rural or suburban areas with less developed pedestrian infrastructure. The absence of safe crossing points typically pushes pedestrians to cross wherever it feels most convenient.
• Overconfidence: Some people believe they can accurately judge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles. This overconfidence can lead to risky decisions, such as crossing in front of fast-moving traffic or in areas with low visibility.
• Distracted Walking: With the rise of smartphones and headphones, distracted walking has become a significant issue. Individuals engrossed in texting, scrolling through apps, or listening to music may not notice their surroundings, leading them to jaywalk without considering the dangers.

Urban design can also contribute to jaywalking. Cities that lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as Albuquerque’s sprawling roadways, may inadvertently encourage jaywalking by making crosswalks inconvenient or hard to find. These challenges emphasize the importance of both driver and pedestrian vigilance to ensure safety on the road.

Injured in a Jaywalking Accident? Get the Legal Help You Need

Jaywalking may seem minor, but it can lead to fines, accidents, or serious injuries. Following pedestrian laws in New Mexico—using crosswalks, obeying signals, and staying alert—can help reduce these risks.

Are you involved in a jaywalking-related accident? Parnall Law is here to protect your rights. Call us at (505) 268-6500 or contact us today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.