Do you enter crosswalks after the red hand flashes? You’re risking a ticket unless this bill gets signed

Did you know that it’s illegal to enter a crosswalk once the “Don’t Walk” signal starts flashing?

If you’ve been breaking the law all these years, you may be in for a reprieve. Assembly Bill 390 would allow pedestrians to begin crossing the street on a flashing “Don’t Walk,” “Wait” or upraised hand, as long as there is a countdown that indicates how much time is left to cross.

The base penalty for illegally entering a crosswalk is $25, but tickets can run as high as $250. The Los Angeles Police Department has been particularly aggressive about pursuing violations.

“We intend to stop that,” said Assemblyman Miguel Santiago, D-Los Angeles, who carried the measure.

The Assembly unanimously approved AB 390 on Monday. It moves next to Gov. Jerry Brown for a signature or veto.

This story was originally published September 11, 2017 at 3:08 PM.