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Can you get arrested for jaywalking?

I live in New York City, where jaywalking is as common as getting a $1 slice of pizza during my lunch break. I jaywalked across 5th Avenue, and a police officer stopped me and told me I could face penalties if I did it again. So, can I get arrested for jaywalking?

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Kevin Martinez · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Hello fellow NYC neighbor! As someone who also lives in New York City, I’ll admit, I’ve partaken in the classic act of jaywalking from time to time. After all, we have places to go and things to do, and sometimes, waiting for the crosswalk signal can take up lots of valuable commuting time.
Every state has its own rules and procedures when it comes to jaywalking. In New York, for example, jaywalking is considered a crime which could lead to a possible citation and, in some circumstances, a mandatory court appearance.
It’s up to local law enforcement to decide whether or not your jaywalking constitutes jail time, but for the most part, you probably will not face many consequences, if any at that. Just be sure to be vigilant and follow local laws if you’re ever unsure. Better safe than sorry!
Make sure always to be aware of your state’s local traffic and pedestrian laws to ensure that you avoid hefty and preventable penalties. You’ll also want to ensure that you’re covered with the right car insurance that meets your state’s minimum requirements. That way, you’ll be prepared and protected no matter what happens.
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