Three New Traffic Laws That Took Effect July 1st in California
Are you aware of what they are?
The state of California is tightening its traffic laws and while they may not apply to all drivers, it is important for everyone to be aware of what they are. The new laws will impact bus riders, rideshare drivers, and private carriers of passengers such as church vans, and their purpose is to help increase safety.
- The first law affects private carriers of passengers. A private carrier would be a church bus or an employee shuttle. While the California Public Utilities once held authority over the Private Carrier of Passengers Program, NBC San Diego reported that it has now been transferred over to the DMV. Now, the DMV along with the California Highway Patrol will oversee the program. The DMV is now responsible for using certificates for intrastate authority as well as verifying proof of liability insurance. This is important to have in the event the bus is involved in an accident and a passenger or the driver sustains an injury. The CHP is responsible for regulating compliance and managing the safe operation of the vehicles.
- The second law deals with buses and seatbelts. Passengers who ride a bus that is equipped with a seat belt must be properly restrained. Any children traveling on a bus between the ages of eight and 15 “must wear a seat belt or be in an appropriate restraint that meets federal safety standards.” Those who fail to comply with the law could face a fine.
- The third law that took effect July 1st applies to drivers who are responsible for transporting passengers, such as those who are employed with Lyft or Uber. The law stipulates that anyone hired to transport passengers and receives payment for their services cannot drive with a blood alcohol content level of 0.04% or higher. The legal limit, which is still 0.08% for motorists, has been lowered to the same standard as that of commercial drivers. “The DMV said that it wants to ensure the public understands drivers of passengers for hire will be held to a higher standard of safety while transporting people.” If a driver of one of these vehicles is convicted of DUI, their license will be suspended, and the conviction will be added to their record.
With these laws now active, hopefully, we will see fewer accidents as well as those that are less severe. But, if you were recently involved in a car accident in San Diego and aren’t sure whether you need to hire a car accident lawyer, consider contacting Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates today to schedule a free initial consultation. Our San Diego, CA car accident attorneys can explain the benefits of hiring a lawyer after being involved in a crash as well as answer any questions you may have.
Visit or call Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates today at:
501 West Broadway, Suite 1650
San Diego, CA 92101
619-233-8021
