2019 has arrived and there are several new vehicle-related laws that went into effect on New Years day. As California litigation Attorneys we hope that these new laws will serve to increase the safety on the roadways in our Golden State.
 Drunk driving: A new law requires repeat DUI offenders and first-time DUI offenders whose violations resulted in injury to install an ignition interlock device. This interlock device must remain in place for a period ranging from 12 to 48 months. The driver must pay for the installation and the installer must be approved by the State of California. This law further allows drivers whose license is suspended under the law to get a license provided they install an ignition interlock device. They will also receive credit toward their required ignition lock restriction period if they are later convicted of a DUI.
 Hit and Run Laws: Hit-and-run laws now include cyclists on bike paths as well. As with motorists, cyclists involved in a collision resulting in injury or death to someone else will be required under this law to stop at the scene. Violation of this law may include Felony level charges
 Helmets: Those under age 18 who are cited for not wearing an approved helmet on a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or skates will get “fix-it” tickets. These tickets can be corrected and removed from the driver’s permanent record. An authorized person can sign the “Certificate of Correction” portion of the ticket. The driver will then take the proof of correction to the court and pay the dismissal fee before the deadline. The court will then dismiss your case.
 Scooters: Helmets will no longer be required for motorized scooters for drivers over age 18. Motorized scooters won’t be allowed on a highway with a speed limit greater than 25 mph unless they are being driven on an appropriate bike path.
 Cargo: The California Department of Motor Vehicles will now include a minimum of one question pertaining to driving with an unsafe, unsecured load in at least 20 percent of driver license tests. All vehicle loads must be covered or secured and the goal is to bring this fact to light.
 Trash trucks: When approaching or passing a refuse collection vehicle with its amber lights flashing, drivers must move into an adjacent lane if possible and pass at a safe distance.
 License plates: Vehicles cannot be driven off dealership lots without a temporary license plate unless it already has issued plates. The stated goal is to reduce toll violations and enhance law enforcement safety.
We represent people who are injured because of the careless and reckless acts of others. At the end of the day your case can only be settled one time and you need to know all of the facts beforehand. The reason that insurance companies have paid our clients in excess of $130,000,000.00 is that we get the facts and are not intimidated at the prospect of going to trial when they refuse to follow the law. We help with serious issues that require serious representation. We are the Law Offices of Guenard & Bozarth. We have over 80 years of experience in our plaintiff’s only law firm. Call GB Legal 24/7/365 at 888-809-1075 or visit www.gblegal.com We Can Help!