New California traffic laws for 2021 regarding, cell phone usage good Samaritans and more that will go into effect in 2021. Don’t get caught breaking then because you were not aware. Ignorance is no excuse when breaking the law! Please read on to find out about these new laws for 2021.
Emergency Vehicle Safety
In the past you were required to slow down when approaching emergency vehicles or Cal Trans workers on freeways but not on local streets or roads. Now you are required to slow down on both freeways and local streets and roads when workers or emergency vehicles are present.
This law is designed to protect both law enforcement officials and city or county workers who may be outside of their vehicles while responding to emergencies.
Unattended Children Left Alone
Although it may be hard to believe in the past if you were to rescue a child in a hot car during summer months you could be liable for property damage or criminal charges.
Now bystanders and passersby will not face civil or criminal liability for damaging vehicles in order to remove unattended children. They must be age 6 or younger, and are in immediate danger from heat, cold, lack of ventilation or other dangerous circumstances.
New Emergency Vehicle Alerts
Authorized emergency vehicles will be allowed to use a “Hi-Lo” warning sound, which is different from a siren. It will be used to notify the public of an immediate need to evacuate an area for an emergency.
Distracted Driving
Beginning July 1, 2021 driving while using a cell phone “in a handheld manner” will result in a point being added to a driver’s record. The penalty applies if the violation is the second to occur within 36 months of being convicted of the same offense.
Four points within 12 months, six within 24 months or eight within 36 months could lead to a suspended license, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
License Plates For Veterans
The California Department of Motor Vehicles also announced changes that will benefit veterans of the United States military.
Beginning Jan. 1, eligible disabled veterans may verify eligibility for special or distinguishing license plates or a disabled person parking placard if they present certification from the California Department of Veterans Affairs or a county veterans services officer.
Previously, the DMV only accepted certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in the absence of a medical certificate.
The DMV also will waive applicable knowledge and driving skills tests required for a commercial driver’s license if the applicant is a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces licensed to drive large trucks. They need to qualify for the Troops to Trucks or Military Even Exchange program.
California Traffic Laws 2021- Ignorance Is No Excuse
Now that you are informed about the new California traffic laws for 2021 you can comply with what the state is asking. However if your are charged and convicted of any of these or any other infraction and your insurance rates skyrocket please click here for a low cost quote
