As we gear up for the new year, California drivers should buckle up, not just for the road but for some significant changes in driving laws set to take effect on January 1. Here's a brief rundown of laws that might impact your time behind the wheel:
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Cruising is no longer a Crime:
- Lowriding enthusiasts, rejoice! Assembly Bill 436, championed by Assembly member David Alvarez, lifts restrictions on lowrider vehicles in California state law. No more city or county bans on cruising. This move is seen as a victory against cultural and racial discrimination targeting the lowriding community.
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Why You’re Stopped:
- Transparency takes the driver's seat. Assembly Bill 2773 mandates law enforcement officers to explicitly state the reason for a traffic or pedestrian stop before initiating any questioning. This rule aims to enhance equity, accountability, and transparency in police-civilian interactions.
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Vehicle Registration Changes:
- Starting July 1, 2024, displaying current month and year tabs on your rear license plate is required until Jan. 1, 2030. However, a violation of vehicle registration alone won't be the sole basis for enforcement actions within the first two months after expiration, as per AB 256.
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Towing with a Purpose:
- Traffic enforcement officials must now verify a vehicle's registration status with the Department of Motor Vehicles before towing it for registration expired longer than six months. If immediate access to these records isn’t available, towing is prohibited.
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Speed Safety System Pilot Program:
- In a bid to enhance safety, cities including Los Angeles, Oakland, San Jose, Glendale, Long Beach, and San Francisco are launching a five-year pilot program (AB 645). Cameras in school zones and high-collision areas will enforce speed limits, with recorded violations incurring civil penalties.
These laws collectively aim to create a fairer and safer driving environment, promoting accountability among law enforcement and ensuring every Californian can navigate the roads with confidence. As we welcome 2024, let's drive better and drive smarter!
