10
Aug
New Laws for California Drivers in 2016
As a California driver, one of your many responsibilities involves understanding the new laws that are coming down the pike. New laws tend to effect large populations of California’s drivers, so it is always a good idea to know what’s going to be on the books for the coming months and years. In terms of new laws for California drivers in 2016, there are several things worth understanding.
New 2016 Traffic Laws for Californians
The California Department of Motor Vehicles has a number of new laws for 2016 Californian motorists. If you want to avoid fines or worse, you will want to be aware of the laws that have changed, the laws that have been introduced, and more.
For example, upon your first DUI offense, the laws in California will require you to have an Ignition Interlock Device installed on your vehicle. This breathalyzer device will not allow you to start your vehicle, if your blood-alcohol level goes above a certain point. First-time offenders will be required to have this device on their vehicle for five months. Repeat offenders can look forward to longer sentences.
The law has also changed, when it comes to earbuds or headsets. Under the new law, you cannot have earbuds or headsets covering both of your ears, while you are operating a motor vehicle or bike. This law will not apply to those who are working with an authorized emergency vehicle. There are additional exemptions, particularly as it relates to the use of protective, essential ear coverings on the job.
Many of the new laws for California drivers are designed with crucial safety considerations in mind, something long needed to keep the roads safe. A good example of this would be the new laws pertaining to electrically motorized skateboards or electric bikes. The skateboards will now have limited/prohibited use in certain areas, and riders will need to have the proper safety equipment. With bikes, the new law has established three classes of vehicles that you will want to keep in mind. There are additional elements to both of these laws that must be appreciated, such as the law now prohibiting skateboard riders in areas in which the speed limit is above thirty-five miles per hour.
Additional Laws for California Motorists
One new California DMV law for 2016 isn’t going to directly impact you on the road. However, it will prove to be a profound change for many. Of course, we are referring to the new law that states that any Californian who obtains or renews their license will also be instantly registered to vote within the state. However, if you do not wish to be registered to vote, you will be given the ability to choose the opt-out option.
Even so, the move is being applauded by many for working to create a greater body of voters.
There is also a new law that pertains to Transportation Network Companies. In this regard, we are referring to companies like Uber or Lyft. Under the new law, these companies will be responsible for reviewing the records of their drivers. In order to do this, they will be given the ability to utilize a DMV program. In other words, if there is an accident, a violation, or a driver’s license suspension, these companies will now be able to find out, according to San Mateo Personal Injury Attorneys.
Beginning July 1st, anyone who is seeking out an original driver’s license or I.D. card will need to be able to prove that they are indeed residents of the state.
Final Thoughts
All of the laws above cover many of the news laws that are now on the books for California drivers. At the same time, note that we haven’t covered all of the laws. You may also want to research certain laws in greater detail, if you believe that law is going to play a significant role in your life.
There is a Yellow Alert System that you may want to learn more about. There is also a Silver Alert System that you should check out. Under the Yellow Alert System, the focus is going to be on hit-and-run incidents that end with deaths or severe injury. Through the Silver Alert System, changeable message signs can now be utilized in the retrieval of elderly/disabled individuals who are believed to be in some sort of danger. Development sin the law and technology seldom go hand in hand, but one state is trying their best.
