As we roll into 2016, new California laws relating to motorists and public safety have taken affect. You may have heard of several of these issues during debates in 2015 when they were just bills. Now that they are laws, it is important to be mindful of how they can effect your day-to-day life. Here are some key laws that will take effect on New Year’s Day (others during the first week of January).
Driving under the influence (SB 61): The new law extends the existing Ignition Interlock Device (IID) project to July 1, 2017. The project requires a person convicted of a DUI to install an IID for five months on first offense, one year on second offense, two years on third offense and three years on a forth or subsequent offense.
The law that was initially set to end January 1, 2016, will affect Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare counties.
Earbuds or headsets (SB 491): This law will prevent drivers from wearing headsets, earplugs or earphones in or over both ears while operating a vehicle or bicycle. It does not, however, apply to those using safety earplugs or headsets while operating authorized emergency vehicles, construction equipment and waste equipment.
Pedal-Powered Vehicles (SB 530): If authorized by a city ordinance, Sacramento brew bikes riders may soon be able to drink alcohol while pedaling through Midtown. The law also expands the definition of a pedicab to include brew bikes, or any four-wheel vehicle seating eight or more and cannot travel faster than 15 mile per hour.