Definition: Jaywalking is crossing a street either between intersections or crossing at an intersection against the signal of the pedestrian crossing light. In some jurisdictions, this may be illegal. It may be subject to an infraction or be a misdemeanor requiring a court appearance. It may also be cited as contributory negligence in case the pedestrian is injured by a vehicle while jaywalking.
In the United States, most states base their laws on the Uniform Vehicle Code, which requires vehicles to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk, but outside of a crosswalk the pedestrian must yield to vehicles. States, cities and towns may have their own jaywalking ordinances.
Pronunciation: jay - wok - ing
Examples:
My walking friends know that jaywalking is not permitted in our city.
