CVC 21454(a) Pedestrian Signal Violation - What to Do If You Got a Ticket
Pedestrian disobedience of traffic control signals
Written by
Violation category
General Traffic
Base fine
$25
Estimated total cost
Includes court fees and assessments
DMV points
0 points
What is California Vehicle Code CVC 21454(a)?
Pedestrian disobedience of traffic control signals
Common scenarios
- You stepped off the curb when the "Walk" sign was on, but the signal changed while you were mid-crossing. You got a ticket for crossing on "Don't Walk."
- The pedestrian signal was broken and showed conflicting signals, so you crossed carefully but still got a ticket.
- You crossed on "Don't Walk" because you had a sudden health issue and couldn’t wait, but the officer still gave you a ticket.
Key facts
- Pedestrian Signals Are Legal Commands: When the signal says "Don't Walk," you must wait. It’s not just a suggestion—it’s the law.
- You Can Only Cross on "Walk" or Green Light: Crossing during the flashing or steady "Don't Walk" can lead to a ticket under CVC 21454(a).
- There Are Defenses You Can Use: If the signal was broken or you had a good reason, you might be able to fight the ticket.
Fine breakdown for CVC 21454(a)
| Category | Estimated amount |
|---|---|
| Base fine | $25 |
| Court & county surcharges (estimate) | $95 |
| Total estimated out-of-pocket | $120 |
County fees can multiply the base fine by 3–5x. ClerkHero confirms exact totals using your ticket details.
What is CVC 21454(a)?
This law is about crossing the street when the pedestrian signal says "Don't Walk." It means you must wait for the "Walk" sign before crossing. If you cross when the signal tells you not to, you can get a ticket.
Why does this matter?
Traffic signals help keep everyone safe. When you ignore the pedestrian signal, it can be dangerous for you and drivers. The law wants to make sure everyone follows the rules to avoid accidents.
What should you do if you got this ticket?
Don’t panic! Many people get confused about these signals. You can check if the signal was clear, if you had enough time to cross, or if there were other reasons you crossed early. Sometimes, you can fight the ticket or ask for a reduced fine.
Remember, this ticket is about safety, not just punishment. Understanding your rights and options helps you handle it better.
Defense ideas you can use in your TR-205 packet
Every ticket is different, but these arguments often surface in successful Trial-by-Declaration defenses. ClerkHero tailors the narrative to match your facts and any evidence you upload.
Defense 1
The pedestrian signal was not clearly visible or was malfunctioning.
Defense 2
You had already started crossing when the signal changed to "Don't Walk."
Defense 3
You crossed because it was unsafe to wait (like a medical emergency).
Defense 4
The officer made a mistake about your crossing time or location.
Defense 5
You were following a crossing guard or police officer's instructions.
We can help fight your ticket CVC 21454(a) online
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Frequently asked questions about CVC 21454(a)
Can I get a ticket if I’m already crossing when the signal changes?
Usually, if you started crossing on "Walk," you should be safe. But some officers might still issue a ticket. You can explain this in your defense.
What if the pedestrian signal was broken or confusing?
This is a strong defense. If you can prove the signal was not working right, the ticket might be dismissed.
How much is the fine for this violation?
Fines vary by city but usually range from $100 to $200. You can ask the court about payment plans or traffic school.
Can I fight this ticket without a lawyer?
Yes! Many people successfully defend these tickets by writing a clear letter explaining their side. ClerkHero can help you with that.
Will this ticket add points to my driving record?
No, pedestrian violations like this don’t add points to your driver’s license, but it’s still important to handle it properly.