What are all the new laws California Drivers need to know?  

Whether you support or disapprove of them, the latest California traffic laws need to be followed when you take your car out on the roads of Orange County or the rest of the state. Here’s a rundown of some of the more important rules for drivers, pedestrians, and anyone who uses the roads.

Traffic Stops

AB 2773 requires law officers to tell you why you’re being stopped before they can ask questions about traffic violations or criminal investigations. This measure aims to increase fairness and transparency during pedestrian and traffic stops. However, officers have some leeway with this bill as they can withhold the reason for the stop to protect life or property from immediate danger.

Vehicle Registration

From July 1, 2024 to January 1, 2030, AB 256 states that violating vehicle registration laws, such as by not showing the current month and year tabs on plate, may NOT be the only reason for stopping a vehicle before the second month after the month that the registration expires. However, if the vehicle is stopped for other Vehicle Code violations, such as speeding, registration violations can be enforced before the second month after the expiration month.

According to AB 925, if a vehicle has a registration that expired 6 or more months ago, enforcement officers must verify whether the car is registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before towing. If an officer cannot access the verification information immediately, they cannot have the vehicle towed.

License Renewal

AB 1606 authorizes the DMV Director to create a program that evaluates traffic safety and other effects when renewing driver’s licenses virtually or through other remote methods. Drivers who are 70 years old and older can complete renewal requirements, such as knowledge or vision tests, through remote or virtual processes. Drivers who are 80 or older must still renew in person at the DMV.

Catalytic Converter Theft

SB 55, AB 641, and AB 1519 address the theft of catalytic converters, which reduces the poisonous pollutants produced by internal combustion engines and contain valuable metals, such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must now appear on the converter or you risk a penatly. It’s also now a misdemeanor to remove or change the VIN or to have converters with a removed or altered VIN.

Safety for Cyclists

AB 1909 aims to improve cyclist safety by requiring drivers to switch lanes when passing a bike like they change lanes when overtaking a vehicle. Electric bikes are now allowed on all off-street trails, although some off-street trails may have restrictions placed by cities. Finally, all bicycle licensing laws have been eliminated across the state. Riders no longer have to register their bikes or obtain a license.

Safety for Pedestrians

AB 413, which is also called the “Daylighting” law, prohibits stopping or parking vehicles within 20 feet of intersections and crosswalks. This measure aims to improve visibility at intersections and crosswalks and reduce pedestrian accidents.

Cruising

AB 436 prevents cities and counties from creating laws and bans against cruisers and lowriders by recognizing these activities as culturally significant. Officers cannot pull over drivers for cruising or driving modified cars that are close to the ground (lowriders) or can bounce with a unique hydraulic suspension system. However, local authorities can still regulate the practice.

Thus ending the new laws announcement, brought to you by Beach Boulevard of Cars. Stay safe.