New Driving and Vehicle Laws Go Into Effect for Southern California Motorists in 1999
30 December 1998
New Driving and Vehicle Laws Go Into Effect for Southern California Motorists in 1999
LOS ANGELES--Dec. 30, 1998--California motorists will face tougher drunk driving and police pursuit laws in 1999.
They will also have their vehicle license fees reduced and be able to perform community service instead of paying a fine for a traffic violation if the fine presents a financial hardship.
The following are highlights of key changes that will affect motorists. Unless otherwise specified, the laws take effect on Jan. 1 and are found in the Vehicle Code.
Driving Under the Influence
In 1999, a motorist's driver's license will be suspended for six months after the first DUI conviction. The suspension time for a second DUI conviction will increase to 2 years from 18 months. Second offenders may, however, have their suspension reduced to one year if they install a certified ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Another law authorizes the Dept. of Motor Vehicles to suspend a driver's license for failing to finish an alcohol abuse treatment program. In addition, a motorist who pleads guilty to alcohol- or drug-related reckless driving must complete a licensed alcohol/drug education program as a probation condition.
Police Pursuits
Motorists fleeing police officers will face six months to a year in jail or prison or a fine of $1,000 to a maximum of $10,000. A judge can also combine incarceration and fines. Under the new law, purposely evading an officer and causing someone's injury or death can also result in a state prison term of up to 5 years. The California Highway Patrol may conduct a statewide publicity campaign to emphasize the seriousness of police pursuits, if funding becomes available.
Vehicle License Fee Reduction
The vehicle license fee, popularly known as the car tax, will be reduced 25%. Currently, California motorists pay an annual license fee of 2% of the value of their cars, trucks, motorcycles and trailers when they register their vehicles. Motorists pay an average tax of $171. With the vehicle license fee cut, motorists will save an average of $42.75. This provision is found in the Revenue and Tax Code.
Cameras At Red Lights
Cameras at red lights will become more common because the Jan. 1 sunset date will be repealed. Red light running has decreased as much as 50 percent at intersections using cameras. San Francisco, Beverly Hills and San Diego use cameras and Los Angeles County plans to install cameras at three of its busiest intersections. Fines of $271 are issued for running a red light.
Speed Traps
The new speed trap law requires a traffic and engineering survey justifying the posted speed limit be done every seven years if police wish to use radar enforcement (or 10 years if there hasn't been significant changes in the roadway). Officers also will get radar training and the device must operate properly. Lastly, the prosecution must prove these conditions were met at the time of citation.
Traffic Violations/Community Service
Courts will be able to allow those suffering financial hardship to pay off fines for traffic infractions through community service. Under Penal Code section 1209.5, the court will decide what constitutes a financial hardship. Over the years, traffic tickets have gotten increasingly more expensive. A carpool violation, for example, is $271, and running a red light is also $271.
Stolen Vehicles
In the new year, the list of felony grand theft auto offenses will expand to include stolen trailers, construction equipment, and vessels. A second conviction will carry an increased penalty. This measure is part of the new penal code.
Radar Jamming Devices
Motorists will be prohibited from equipping vehicles with devices that jam, or interfere with police radar, lasers or any other electronic device used to measure vehicle speed. Motorists also will be forbidden to buy, own, sell, manufacture or distribute these devices.
Sidewalk Parking Prohibition
If you park your car so that it extends over a sidewalk, you'll be cited. This clarifies an existing law stating that no part of the car body or wheels can block a sidewalk.
Window Coverings
Clear window coverings that block cancer-causing ultraviolet rays may be affixed to vehicle's front-side windows. Motorists must carry a signed certificate indicating the material meets specifications, beginning next year.
Red Flags
When motorists carry loads which extend 4 feet beyond their vehicle, they may use a 12-inch red or fluorescent orange flag to warn other drivers of the extension. This new law conforms to standards used in other western states.
The Automobile Club of Southern California, the largest affiliate of the AAA, has been serving members since 1900. Today, the Auto Club's members benefit by the organization's emergency road service, insurance products and services, travel agency, financial products, automotive pricing, buying and financing programs, automotive testing and analysis, trip planning services, highway and transportation safety programs and legislative advocacy. Information about these products and services is available on the Auto Club's Web site at www.aaa-calif.com.
