The Golden State is a nation in many ways. It covers a land mass that has access to the Pacific Ocean, desert, and mountains. California has access to several small bodies of water, soil conditions for agriculture, and the ability to trade with other countries and states.
In addition, it remains the fifth largest economy in the world.
With everything the state has in its favor, it’s also among the most litigious states.
In terms of driving on the state’s highways, practice the same good driving technique that you would in others. Safe driving crosses state lines. If you take some time to look over the laws on the books in any state, you’ll find that some seem antiquated.
The laws served a purpose during their era.
The following are seven California traffic laws that you didn’t know.
1. Autonomous Vehicles & The Speed Limit
Ridesharing companies, tech startups, and vehicle manufacturers continue to race to put autonomous vehicles on the road. Tesla has several on the road while other companies continue to test their models.
At least 25 companies have them on the assembly line. State governments including California have had laws regarding autonomous vehicles since 2015.
In 2021, they continue catching up to the innovation. Nonetheless, if you’re in an autonomous vehicle, mind the speed limit. Stay at 60 miles per hour or less.
2. Driving Dress Code & Women
Keep in mind that all laws have an origin, especially the odder ones. For example, in Downey, CA, you cannot wash your vehicle on the street. Furthermore, you cannot wipe your car with your undergarments in San Francisco.
There must be a logic to the oddness.
At some point, women in California drove their vehicles in house robes and coats. Thus, the state outlawed it.
It makes sense to adhere to a dress code while driving, especially with footwear. It’s not a good idea to drive with flip-flops on for safety reasons.
3. No Sleeping On The Street In Eureka
California is in the midst of a lot of things. Homelessness is among them. Before the crisis became severe, more than one person attempted to sleep in the streets of Eureka. So much so that they officially outlawed it with traffic laws.
Sleeping on any road or highway isn’t a good idea anyway. Even the most careful driver has a tough time seeing things clearly at night.
4. Watch For Crossing Fowl & Birds
California has its share of wildlife. Among the wildlife are ducks, peacocks, and other birds. If you see them attempting to cross the road, you must give them the right of way.
Plus, you cannot hunt from a moving vehicle. The State allows several places to hunt. Your car is not among them.
All jokes aside, traffic accidents require immediate attention. JT Legal Group provides California car accident attorney services to drivers who need them.
5. For Motorcyclists
In the Golden State, motorcyclists have the freedom of lane splitting. Once again, California served as the testing ground for the practice.
Lane splitting allows motorcyclists to weave in and out of traffic. Instead of remaining behind a vehicle in stop-and-go traffic, studies suggest that it’s safer for motorcyclists to ride between the lanes and roads.
Some vehicle drivers aren’t too happy about the practice. Thus, a motorcyclist should proceed with caution.
6. For Bus Passengers
If you ride a bus in California and you notice that it has a seat belt for your seat, you must wear it.
The state has strict safety belt laws. In 2005, the state established the “Click It or Ticket” campaign. It applies to all passengers.
The likelihood of highway patrol boarding a bus to check on the seat belts is low. However, if an accident occurs and the passengers experience severe injuries or deaths, expect an investigation to include an analysis of the seat belts.
7. Reporting A Traffic Accident
Individuals involved in a traffic accident in California should report it to the proper authorities. According to the california traffic court, if the damage is at least $750, you must file a report within 10 days of the accident.
The report helps drivers recover damages through legal means.
Conclusion
When you drive in and through California, practice good habits. It’s the best way to prevent starting and becoming involved in a traffic accident.
