New year brings new driving laws

California has new traffic laws pertaining to good samaritans, cell phone usage and more that are set to go into effect in 2021. The new laws were released mid-December by the California Highway Patrol. They went into effect Jan. 1, unless otherwise noted.

Emergency Vehicle Safety

Drivers are now required to slow down or change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles with emergency lights, such as a tow truck or Caltrans vehicle,on local streets and roads. Until now, such slowing was only required on freeways.

This law is designed to protect law enforcement officials or first responders who may be outside of their vehicles while responding to emergencies.

Unattended Children

Bystanders and passersby will not face civil or criminal liability for damaging vehicles to remove unattended children, age 6 or younger, who are in immediate danger from heat, cold, lack of ventilation or other dangerous circumstances.

Distracted Driving

Beginning July 1, 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.

The law pertains to anyone caught talking on the phone or texting while driving unless they’re using a hands-free device. Anyone under the age of 18 cannot use any devices while driving.

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.

License Plates for Veterans

The California Department of Motor Vehicles also announced changes that will benefit veterans of the United States military.

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.

For more information on California driving laws:

• http://www.dmv.ca.gov

• http://www.chp.ca.gov