Know Your Jaywalking Laws

Jaywalking is no joke, whether viewed from a safety perspective or from the hefty fine you’re eligible to receive when you’re caught.

Despite the seriousness of this law, there are some pretty silly rules still on the law books in regards to this crime. Jaywalking is commonly referred to as crossing the street outside of a crosswalk or against the “walk” signal, but it also applies to times when pedestrians disregard traffic laws.

According to Dumblaws.com, it is illegal for a pedestrian to cross the highway at night without wearing taillights in Kansas. This law doesn’t seem to far-fetched now that many states require bicyclists to have front and tail lights as well as reflectors.

In Little Rock, Ark., “it is unlawful to walk one’s cow down Main Street after 1 p.m. on Sunday,” according to DumbLaws.com. It sounds unlikely anyone would truly enforce this law, but better safe than sorry.

Clearly these laws are holdovers from a time when cows were a greater part of every day life. But in all seriousness, jaywalking is dangerous to pedestrians and motorists. Although many people do it, it is still a hazard that should not be risked.

Remember to think twice and use a crosswalk.