California Vehicle Code 21457
One of the reasons accidents occur on roads or highways is due to one or more drivers that assume they have the right-of-way.
It is important for all drivers to understand the rules of the road and obey them to prevent any accidents.
A driver is responsible for adhering to right-of-way laws as set by the state. An accident that occurs from a driver’s failure to yield is most commonly caused when a driver does not yield to oncoming traffic while proceeding to make a left turn.
Right-of-way is often regulated with specific traffic control lights or signals, such as those covered under California Vehicle Code section 21457.
What does the California Code say about CVC 21457?
CVC Section 21457 instructs all drivers that observe an illuminated blinking red or yellow light in operation at a traffic signal or traffic sign that drivers must adhere to the following rules:
(a) Flashing red lights indicate a stop signal. Drivers that see an intermittent flashing red light must stop at the limit line provided. If there is no limit line, a driver has to stop before the entrance of a crosswalk on the side close to the intersection; furthermore, if there is no crosswalk, a driver should stop at the location nearest the intersection of a highway where the driver has clear sight of any approaching traffic at the entrance of the intersecting highway. If permissible, a driver may proceed forward with caution after a complete stop at the stop sign.
(b) Flashing yellow lights indicate a caution signal. Drivers, who observe an intermittent flashing yellow light, may proceed forward through the intersection or through the traffic signal with extreme caution.
Regardless of the type of signal regulating the intersection, it is essential for a driver never to assume that another driver will give them the right of way.
The California Driving Handbook provides tips on how to prevent collisions and respect the rules of right-of-way describe below:
A. Pedestrians
- It shows excellent precaution to drive safely in an area where there is a high presence of pedestrians.
- Always practice good measures by stopping at crosswalks or corners where pedestrians are trying to pass safely.
- Do not attempt to go over a crosswalk.
- Drivers should always stop at the white line prior to the crosswalk.
- Under no circumstance should a driver try to pass a car that is at a stop at a crosswalk.
- Think twice and save a life.
- Allow a pedestrian time to cross the street. A driver never knows what type of incapability a pedestrian is dealing with.
- Traffic signs specifically pertaining to pedestrians give clear examples of pedestrian safety; obey them.
B. Crosswalks
- Most intersections have a crosswalk, if not; lines may or may not be indicated with paint to serve as a crosswalk. Whichever is true, watch out for pedestrians when nearing a crosswalk.
- Pedestrians should also know that it is unsafe to act impulsively and leave the safety of a curb prematurely when at a crosswalk.
- Some crosswalks provide flashing lights for pedestrians and drivers, be aware, and prepare to stop.
C. Intersections
- Stop and yield signs may not be present at an intersection. Drivers should protect themselves by driving slowly at all times.
- Right-of-way always belongs to pedestrians at intersections.
- If a driver proceeds to turn at an intersection, do so with extreme caution and always check for blind spots or unseen pedestrians.
- At highways or intersections where a division is present, examine the road for vehicles coming in a lane you may cross. When it is safe, turn right or left only.
What is the punishment for a California Traffic Ticket for CVC 21457?
The fine for a California traffic ticket for disobeying “flashing light signals” starts at $237 for violating a yellow signal and $489 for violating a red signal. Regardless of the color of the light signal, a violation of this vehicle code would also add a point to your permanent driving record.
If you received a citation of this nature, reach out to our team to understand the options you have available. You can also submit your citation for a free ticket review.