The Department of Transportation is in
charge of designing, installing, maintaining and
modifying crosswalks in the County Right-of-Way.
What is a Crosswalk?
California Vehicle Code defines a
crosswalk as: ".the portion of roadway at an
intersection which represents extensions of the sidewalk
lines, or any portion of the roadway distinctly
indicated for pedestrian crossing."
Marked vs. Unmarked Crosswalks
Marked crosswalks serve to guide pedestrians into the
proper path, and are indicated by two solid white or
yellow lines
about 12 inches wide that extend from curb to
curb. Marked crosswalks are not necessarily safer
than unmarked crosswalks. Some studies reveal that
pedestrian-vehicle accidents are more likely to occur in
a marked crosswalk at certain locations than an unmarked
one. They are more visible to
pedestrians than motorists, and can give pedestrians a
false sense of security. It is important that
pedestrians exercise caution when using crosswalks,
regardless of right-of-way.
What do Crosswalk Symbols Mean?
"WALK" or a walking pedestrian symbol means
that pedestrians may begin crossing. A flashing
"DON'T WALK" or an upraised hand symbol means
that it is too late to begin crossing the street, but
pedestrians who are already in the crosswalk should
quickly finish crossing. A steady "DON'T
WALK" or an upraised hand symbol means that
pedestrians should not begin crossing the street.
Safety Tips
Cross at intersections for higher
visibility.
Look in all directions to check for
vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles before
crossing the street.
Be aware of turning vehicles.
Never cross between parked vehicles
or other visibility obstructions.
FYI: Marked crosswalks are not
necessarily safer than unmarked
crosswalks. Studies reveal that
pedestrian-vehicle accidents are more likely to
occur in a marked crosswalk than an unmarked
one.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Crosswalk Maintenance For maintenance pertaining
to streets and roadways in or near crosswalks. Customer
Service Center
4100 Traffic Way
Sacramento, CA
95827 Phone:
916-875-5171 Fax: 916-875-5587
Crosswalk Striping/Painting For maintenance or
questions pertaining to crosswalk markings.
Signs & Markings Section
4135 Traffic Way
Sacramento, CA
95827
Disabled Access Issues For information on
wheelchair ramps, audible pedestrian signals, and guide
strips.
New Crosswalk Installation To request a new crosswalk
be installed in your neighborhood.
Traffic Investigation Section
4135 Traffic Way
Sacramento, CA
95827
