new laws Flashcards
Passing and overtaking of Waste Service Vehicles
Drivers who approach a waste service vehicle on a public street or highway with flashing amber warning lights on, are to approach with caution and leave the lane adjacent to that vehicle as soon as another lane is available. Drivers who cannot safely make a lane change must slow down and pass at a speed that is safe and reasonable for the conditions. This applies to Refuse Collection vehicles, not separated from the street by a protective barrier.
Marijuana Consumption for Passengers
California passengers will not be able to smoke marijuana in any moving vehicle. Previous law did not allow passengers to smoke marijuana in the passenger seat of a standard moving vehicle however there was an exemption in place for limousines, taxis, and party buses. However, lawmakers voted to end the exemption under Senate Bill 625 that allowed passengers to consume marijuana while in a bus, limousine, taxi, pedicab, housecar or camper. While passengers in any of those vehicles will no longer be able to ingest cannabis, they will still be able to drink alcohol.
Points assessed for distracted driving convictions
Unlawful cell phone use is currently a zero-point traffic violation. However, for violations that occur on or after July 1, 2021, the DMV will assess one point if the violation was within 36 months of a prior conviction.
Bicycle in Turn Lane Lanes
Bicyclists are allowed to travel straight through an intersection from left- or right- turn lane, so long as an official traffic control device indicates that the movement is permitted. (The new law also requires the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) to develop standards for lane pavement markings, striping, and appropriate regulatory signs to implement this change)
Driver license Suspension/Delay
The courts will no longer have the authority to revoke, restrict or order the DMV to delay the driving privilege of a person convicted of prostitution, vandalism or other non-driving offenses since SB 485 was approved.
Used Tires
The bill (AB 949) prohibits an automotive repair dealer from installing an unsafe used tire, as specified, on a motor vehicle for use on a highway. The bill, except as specified, will require an automotive repair dealer to use a visual inspection to determine whether a tire meets the criteria of an unsafe used tire.
An unsafe used tire, is one that:
Has 1/16 inch of tread depth or less
Has damage exposing steel belts or other internal components
Has been repaired improperly
Has sidewall bulges indicating possible internal damage
A violation of these provisions is considered a misdemeanor, the law states, unless otherwise specified, and may subject a licensee to disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation.
Civil rights at a traffic stop
This law requires the DMV to include information in the California Driver Handbook regarding a person’s Civil Rights during a traffic stop. This includes the right to file a complaint against a peace officer.
