Understanding Common Road Signs and Traffic Signal Meanings

Many road signs warn you to slow down or watch for hazards ahead.
Most warning
signs are yellow and shaped like a diamond. Some common warning signs are
shown below.
All warning signs must be obeyed.
Crossroad or Another road crosses yours up
ahead.
There is a traffic signal ahead.
There is another lane of traffic merging with

your lane ahead.
There is a pedestrian crosswalk ahead and

the pedestrian has the right-of-way
The right lane ends ahead.
You may turn left when the light is green.

Yield to traffic which is close enough to be a
hazard.
Obedience to Traffic Control Signals

21462. The driver of any vehicle, the person in charge of any animal, any pedestrian, and the motorman of any streetcar shall obey the
instructions of any official traffic signal applicable to him and placed as provided by law, unless otherwise directed by a police or
traffic officer or when it is necessary for the purpose of avoiding a collision or in case of other emergency, subject to the exemptions
granted by Section 21055.
Obedience by Driver to Official Traffic Control Devices
21461. (a) It shall be unlawful for any driver of a vehicle to fail to obey any sign or signal erected or maintained to indicate and carry
out the provisions of this code or any local traffic ordinance or resolution adopted pursuant to a local traffic ordinance, or to fail to
obey any device erected or maintained pursuant to Section 21352.
(b) The provisions of subdivision (a) shall not apply to acts constituting violations under Chapter 9 (commencing with Section 22500)
of this division or to acts constituting violations of any local traffic ordinance adopted pursuant to Chapter 9 (commencing with
Section 22500).
Lane Use Control Signals

21454. When lane use control signals are placed over individual lanes, those signals shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles as
follows:
(a) Green indication: A driver may travel in any lane over which a green signal is shown.
(b) Steady yellow indication: A driver is thereby warned that a lane control change is being made.
(c) Steady red indication: A driver shall not enter or travel in any lane over which a red signal is shown.
(d) Flashing yellow indication: A driver may use the lane only for the purpose of making a left turn to or from the highway.
RED - A red signal light means "STOP." A
right turn can be made against a red light
after you stop and yield to pedestrians and
vehicles in your path. DO NOT turn if there is
a sign posted for "NO TURN ON RED."
RED ARROW - A red arrow means "STOP"

until the green signal or green arrow
appears. A turn may not be made against a
red arrow.
FLASHING RED - A flashing red signal light

means exactly the same as a stop sign:
namely, STOP! After stopping, proceed when
safe, observing the right-of-way rules.
21453. Circular Red or Red Arrow

YELLOW - A yellow signal light warns you
that the red signal is about to appear. When
you see the yellow light, you should stop, if
you can do so safely. If you can't stop, look
out for vehicles that may enter the
intersection when the light changes.
FLASHING YELLOW - A flashing yellow signal

light warns you to be careful. Slow down and
be especially alert.
21457. Flashing Signals

YELLOW ARROW - A yellow arrow means the
"protected' turning time period is ending. Be
prepared to obey the next signal which could
be the green or red light or the red arrow.
Arrow
21452. Circular Yellow or Yellow
GREEN - A green light means "GO," but first

you must let any vehicles, bicycles, or
pedestrians remaining in the intersection go.
When your signal changes to green, get
through before you move ahead. Make the
left turn only if you have enough space to
complete the turn before any oncoming
vehicle, bicycle, or pedestrian becomes a
hazard. Do not enter an intersection, even
when the light is green, unless there is
enough space to completely cross before the
light turns red. If heavy traffic causes you to
block traffic, you can be cited.
GREEN ARROW - A green arrow means "GO,"

but first you must yield to any vehicle,
bicycle, or pedestrian still in the intersection.
The green arrow pointing right or left allows
you to make a "protected" turn; oncoming
vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians are
stopped by a red light as long as the green
arrow is lighted.
Circular Red or Red Arrow

21453. (a) A driver facing a steady circular red signal alone shall stop at a marked limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk
on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to
proceed is shown, except as provided in subdivision (b).
(b) Except when a sign is in place prohibiting a turn, a driver, after stopping as required by subdivision (a), facing a steady circular red
signal, may turn right, or turn left from a one-way street onto a one-way street. A driver making that turn shall yield the right-of-way
to pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk and to any vehicle that has approached or is approaching so closely as to
constitute an immediate hazard to the driver, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to that vehicle until the driver can proceed
with reasonable safety.
(c) A driver facing a steady red arrow signal shall not enter the intersection to make the movement indicated by the arrow and, unless
entering the intersection to make a movement permitted by another signal, shall stop at a clearly marked limit line, but if none, before
entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped
until an indication permitting movement is shown.
(d) Unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in Section 21456, a pedestrian facing a steady circular red or
red arrow signal shall not enter the roadway.
Flashing Signals
21457. Whenever an illuminated flashing red or yellow light is used in a traffic signal or with a traffic sign, it shall require obedience
by drivers as follows:
(a) Flashing red (stop signal): When a red lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, a driver shall stop at a clearly marked
limit line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the
intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering it, and the driver
may proceed subject to the rules applicable after making a stop at a stop sign.
(b) Flashing yellow (caution signal): When a yellow lens is illuminated with rapid intermittent flashes, a driver may proceed through
the intersection or past the signal only with caution.
Circular Yellow or Yellow Arrow
21452. (a) A driver facing a steady circular yellow or yellow arrow signal is, by that signal, warned that the related green movement is
ending or that a red indication will be shown immediately thereafter.
(b) A pedestrian facing a steady circular yellow or a yellow arrow signal, unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as
provided in Section 21456, is, by that signal, warned that there is insufficient time to cross the roadway and shall not enter the
roadway.
Amended Ch. 256, Stats. 1986. Effective January 1, 1987.
Circular Green or Green Arrow
21451. (a) A driver facing a circular green signal shall proceed straight through or turn right or left or make a U-turn unless a sign
prohibits a U-turn. Any driver, including one turning, shall yield the right-of-way to other traffic and to pedestrians lawfully within the
intersection or an adjacent crosswalk.
(b) A driver facing a green arrow signal, shown alone or in combination with another indication, shall enter the intersection only to
make the movement indicated by that green arrow or any other movement that is permitted by other indications shown at the same
time. A driver facing a left green arrow may also make a U-turn unless prohibited by a sign. A driver shall yield the right-of-way to
other traffic and to pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or an adjacent crosswalk.
(c) A pedestrian facing a circular green signal, unless prohibited by sign or otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as
provided in Section 21456, may proceed across the roadway within any marked or unmarked crosswalk, but shall yield the right-ofway to vehicles lawfully within the intersection at the time that signal is first shown.
(d) A pedestrian facing a green arrow turn signal, unless otherwise directed by a pedestrian control signal as provided in Section
21456, shall not enter the roadway.
Official Traffic Control Signals
21450. (a) Whenever traffic is controlled by official traffic control signals showing different colored lights, color-lighted arrows, or
color-lighted bicycle symbols, successively, one at a time, or in combination, only the colors green, yellow, and red shall be used,
except for pedestrian control signals, and those lights shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles, operators of bicycles, and
pedestrians as provided in this chapter.
(b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2005, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is
enacted before January 1, 2005, deletes or extends that date.
NOTE: The preceding section becomes inoperative on January 1, 2005, at which time the following section becomes operative.
21450. (a) Whenever traffic is controlled by official traffic control signals showing different colored lights, or colored lighted arrows,
successively, one at a time, or in combination, only the colors green, yellow, and red shall be used, except for pedestrian control
signals, and those lights shall indicate and apply to drivers of vehicles and pedestrians as provided in this chapter.
(b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005. Added Sec. 1.5, Ch. 277, Stats. 1999. Effective January 1, 2000.
If all traffic signal lights are not working because of an electrical power failure, you
must stop at the intersection and then proceed when you know other turning and
approaching vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians will also be stopping. A blacked-out
traffic signal is the same as a stop sign controlled intersection in all directions.
REGULATORY SIGNS
Black and white signs like these tell you what to do. You must obey them.
Many street crossings have pedestrian

signals that show the words "WALK" and
"DON'T WALK" or show a "WALKING
PERSON" in white and a "RAISED HAND"
in orange. Pedestrian signals direct
pedestrians while crossing the street. The
"WALK" or "WALKING PERSON" appears
when it is legal to start crossing.
When the "DON'T WALK" or "RAISED

HAND" appears, you may not start across
the street. The flashing signal means you
should not begin to cross be cause you
may not have enough time to make it to
the other side before vehicles start
moving across your path. If the flashing
starts after you have already started to
cross, you may finish crossing the street.
Signal at Other Places

21455. When an official traffic control signal is erected and maintained at a place other than an intersection, the provisions of this
article shall be applicable except those provisions which by their nature can have no application. Any stop required shall be made at a
sign or crosswalk or limit line indicating where the stop shall be made, but in the absence of any such sign or marking the stop shall be
made at the signal.
At many traffic signals, you need to push the pedestrian push button (once) to
receive the "WALK" or "WALKING PERSON" signal. At a crossing where there are no
pedestrian signals, pedestrians must obey the red, yellow, or green signal lights.
A STOP sign means that you must make a full stop before
entering a crosswalk or at a white "limit line." A limit line
is a wide white line painted on the street. When a
crosswalk or limit line is not marked, stop at the corner.
Check for traffic before crossing. Wait until it is safe
before going forward. On divided highways, a STOP sign
for crossing or turning vehicles is often placed on the
island or dividing strip. You must also stop there.
22450. Stop Requirements

When you see this YIELD sign, slow down, be ready to
stop, and let traffic (including people walking or riding
bikes) pass before you go ahead. Go only when it is safe.
The DO NOT ENTER sign tells you there is danger ahead

because vehicles will be coming toward you, usually on a
freeway off ramp.
The WRONG WAY sign may be with the DO NOT ENTER

sign. If you see one or both of these signs, drive to the
side and stop. You are going against traffic. When safe,
back out or turn around and go back to the road you were
on. (At night, road reflectors will shine red in your
headlights when you are going the wrong way.)
Stop Requirements
22450. (a) The driver of any vehicle approaching a stop sign at the entrance to, or within, an intersection, or railroad grade crossing
shall stop at a limit line, if marked, otherwise before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection.
If there is no limit line or crosswalk, the driver shall stop at the entrance to the intersecting roadway or railroad grade crossing.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a local authority may adopt rules and regulations by ordinance or resolution providing
for the placement of a stop sign at any location on a highway under its jurisdiction where the stop sign would enhance traffic safety.
Regulatory signs are black on white or white on black, and show what you must do
at a given point. They have the same force as traffic laws. Some regulatory signs
show the speed limit, others instruct as to direction (one-way, keep right); or slow
traffic keep right, or prohibited actions (no U-Turn).
Guide signs come in blue, green and brown and tell motorists which services are
available in the vicinity. These are only a few of the many guide signs you might see
along the highways.
WHAT DOES THE SHAPE OF EACH SIGN MEAN?
Octagon - Stop
Triangle - Yield
Round - Railroad Crossing
Vertical Rectangle - Regulatory
Pentagon - School
Pennant - No passing
Diamond - Warning
Horizontal
Rectangle
Information
When you park headed downhill, turn your front wheels into the curb or toward the
side of the road. Set the parking brake. When you park headed uphill, turn your
front wheels away from the curb and let your vehicle roll back a few inches until the
rear of one front wheel gently touches the curb. Then set the parking brake.
For either uphill or downhill parking, if there is no curb, turn the wheels toward the
side of the road so the car will roll away from the center of the road if the brakes
fail. When you park on a sloping driveway, turn the wheels so that the car will not
roll into the street if the brakes fail.
Always set your parking brake. Leave the vehicle in gear. Use the "parking"
position if your vehicle has an automatic transmission.
When you park alongside a curb, the front and back wheels must be parallel
and within 18 inches of the curb. If there is no curb, parallel parking is
required.
Never leave your car until you have stopped the engine and set the parking
brake.
Don't open your door on the traffic side unless it is safe to do so and doesn't
interfere with traffic. Look for passing bicycles and motorcycles. Do not leave
the door open any longer than is necessary to load or unload passengers.
RED
No parking, stopping or standing.
YELLOW
Loading zone. Only to pick up, unload passengers,

freight. Time varies from location to location.
WHITE
Stopping only long enough to pick up or drop off

passengers or mail.
GREEN
Limited time parking only.
BLUE
Vehicle belonging to handicapped person. Must have

special plates/placard.
Curb Markings
21458. (a) Whenever local authorities enact local parking regulations and indicate them by the use of paint upon curbs, the following
colors only shall be used, and the colors indicate as follows:
(1) Red indicates no stopping, standing, or parking, whether the vehicle is attended or unattended, except that a bus may stop in a red
zone marked or signposted as a bus loading zone.
(2) Yellow indicates stopping only for the purpose of loading or unloading passengers or freight for the time as may be specified by
local ordinance.
(3) White indicates stopping for either of the following purposes:
(A) Loading or unloading of passengers for the time as may be specified by local ordinance.
(B) Depositing mail in an adjacent mailbox.
(4) Green indicates time limit parking specified by local ordinance.

(5) Blue indicates parking limited exclusively to the vehicles of disabled persons and disabled veterans.
(b) Regulations adopted pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be effective on days and during hours or times as prescribed by local
ordinances.
This blue symbol also marks parking spaces and special areas for disabled
people. Disabled persons may apply for special license plates and/or placards at
any DMV office. With these plates or signs, disabled people may park in these
special areas. No one else may park there. Holders of disabled person plates or
placards may park for unlimited periods of time in parking spaces where a sign
indicates a restricted length of time.
NOTE: Placard abuse can result in cancellation or revocation of the placard and
the loss of special parking privileges. Protect your parking privileges and help
eliminate placard abuse by never allowing your placard to be used by others,
even family members or friends, unless you are being transported in the vehicle.
NEW LAW SINCE 2009
Disabled Parking Operative January 1, 2008
Amend: Government Code 14679 Amend: Vehicle Code 22511.59, 22511.8,
42001.13 Add: Vehicle Code 22511.95 (AB 1531 Chapter 413)
Limits the maximum consecutive number of times a person can renew a
temporary disability parking placard.
Increases fines for second and third violations related to illegal parking in
disabled spaces.
Alters signage and painting requirements for disabled parking spaces of
buildings constructed or renovated on or after July 1, 2008.
NO PARKING
Never park where you will block traffic. Do not park or leave your car:
In an intersection.
On a crosswalk (marked or unmarked); or on a sidewalk.
Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, or a fire station driveway.
Within 3 feet of a sidewalk ramp for the disabled.
Sometimes lower speed limit signs are placed near schools, so look for
them.
Watch for bicycles and pedestrians near schools.
Look for school safety patrols or school crossing guards and obey their
directions.
Look for stopped school buses. Be prepared for children crossing the
street. Some school buses flash yellow lights when bus is stopped and
preparing to let children leave the bus. This is warning for you to prepare
to stop. Flashing red lights mean you must stop until the children are
safely across the street and the lights have stopped flashing.
NEAR RAILROAD TRACKS:

The speed limit is 15 mph when you come within 100 feet of a
railroad crossing and you cannot see the tracks for 400 feet in
both directions. You may go faster than 15 mph if the crossing is
controlled by gates, a warning signal, or a flagman.
AROUND CHILDREN:
Always drive more carefully near schools, playgrounds,
and parks because children may suddenly dart into the
Near a school, the speed limit is 25 mph while children
outside or crossing the street. No matter what the speed
states, you should never drive faster than 25 mph when
ground has no fence and children are outside.
street.
are
limit sign
the school
Sometimes lower speed limit signs are placed near schools, so look for them.
Watch for bicycles and pedestrians near schools.
Look for school safety patrols or school crossing guards and obey their
directions.
Look for stopped school busses. Be prepared for children crossing the street.
Some school busses flash yellow lights when bus is stopped and preparing to
let children leave the bus. This is a warning for you to prepare to stop.
Flashing red lights mean you must stop immediately before passing the bus
from either direction until the children are safely across the street and the
lights have stopped flashing. The driver of a vehicle upon a divided highway
or multiple-lane highway need not stop upon meeting or passing a schoolbus
that is upon the other roadway.
RAILROAD (TRAIN) CROSSINGS
Signs warn you that you are approaching railroad tracks. Look
and listen for trains in both directions. Be ready to stop, if
necessary. You should expect a train on a track at any time,
day or night. Never stop on a railroad track. Usually by the
time a train sees you, it will be too late for it to stop. When
traffic is heavy, wait off the tracks until you are sure you can
drive over them without stopping. Watch for vehicles that
must stop before crossing the tracks, such as buses, school
buses, and large trucks transporting hazardous loads.
Railroad Crossings
22452. (a) Subdivisions (b) and (c) apply to the operation of the following vehicles:
(1) Any bus or farm labor vehicle carrying passengers.
(2) Any motortruck transporting employees in addition to those riding in the cab.
(3) Any schoolbus and any school pupil activity bus transporting school pupils, except as otherwise provided in paragraph (4) of
subdivision (c).
(4) Every commercial motor vehicle transporting any quantity of a Division 2.3 chlorine, as classified by Title 49 of the Code of
Federal Regulations.
(5) Every commercial motor vehicle that is required to be marked or placarded in accordance with the regulations of Title 49 of the
Code of Federal Regulations with one of the following federal classifications:
(A) Division 1.1.
(B) Division 1.2, or Division 1.3.
(C) Division 2.3 Poison gas.
(D) Division 4.3.
(E) Class 7.
(F) Class 3 Flammable.
(G) Division 5.1.
(H) Division 2.2.
(I) Division 2.3 Chlorine.
(J) Division 6.1 Poison.
(K) Division 2.2 Oxygen.
(L) Division 2.1.
(M) Class 3 Combustible liquid.
(N) Division 4.1.
(O) Division 5.1.
(P) Division 5.2.
(Q) Class 8.
(R) Class Division 1.4.
(S) Every cargo tank motor vehicle, whether loaded or empty, used for the transportation of any hazardous material, as defined in Parts
107 to 180, inclusive, of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(6) Every cargo tank motor vehicle transporting a commodity that at the time of loading has a temperature above its flashpoint, as
determined under Section 173.120 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(7) Every cargo tank motor vehicle, whether loaded or empty, transporting any commodity under exemption in accordance with
Subpart B of Part 107 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
(b) Before traversing a railroad grade crossing, the driver of any vehicle described in subdivision (a) shall stop that vehicle not less
than 15 nor more than 50 feet from the nearest rail of the track and while so stopped shall listen, and look in both directions along the
track, for any approaching train and for signals indicating the approach of a train, and shall not proceed until he or she can do so
safely. Upon proceeding, the gears shall not be shifted manually while crossing the tracks.
(c) No stop need be made at any crossing in the following circumstances:
(1) Of railroad tracks running along and upon the roadway within a business or residence district.
(2) Where a traffic officer or an official traffic control signal directs traffic to proceed.
(3) Where an exempt sign was authorized by the Public Utilities
(4) Where an official railroad crossing stop exempt sign in compliance with Section 21400 has been placed by the Department of
Transportation or a local authority pursuant to Section 22452.5. This paragraph shall not apply with respect to any schoolbus or to any
school pupil activity bus.
Flashing red lights at a railroad crossing mean STOP! Stop at least 15 feet from the
tracks when:
A person or signal warns that a train is coming.
You see a train coming.
You hear the horn or bell of a train close by.
Never start across if there isn't room for your vehicle on the other side of the
tracks.
Don't go ahead until you can see clearly in both directions because there may be a
second train coming from either direction. Do not go around or under any closed
railroad gate. Cross only when it is safe.
Railroad or Rail Transit Grade Crossings
22451. (a) The driver of any vehicle or pedestrian approaching a railroad or rail transit grade crossing shall stop not less than 15 feet
from the nearest rail and shall not proceed until he or she can do so safely, whenever the following conditions exist:
(1) A clearly visible electric or mechanical signal device or a flagman gives warning of the approach or passage of a train or car.
(2) An approaching train or car is plainly visible or is emitting an audible signal and, by reason of its speed or nearness, is an
immediate hazard.
(b) No driver or pedestrian shall proceed through, around, or under any railroad or rail transit crossing gate while the gate is closed.
(c) Whenever a railroad or rail transit crossing is equipped with an automated enforcement system, a notice of a violation of this
section is subject to the procedures provided in Section 40518.
The same rules apply to trolley crossings as to train crossings. Do not proceed across the
tracks until you can see clearly in both directions and are sure that no other trolley or train is
coming. Do not go around or under any closed gate.
NOTE: Trolleys are very quiet and move more quickly than freight trains.
If there is a tollbooth ahead, a driver will be warned by posted signs. He or she

should slow down and be ready to stop. Usually, special lanes are designated for
special vehicles, such as trucks, those with exact change, and quick-pay card
scanning systems.
All roads are not straight and flat. There are hills, curves, and other changes in the
roadway. Drivers need to adjust their speed for these changes. Temporary speed
limits interrupt normal driving speed for a limited time. They provide guidelines for
adjusting speed.
For example, a warning sign is usually posted before a sharp curve on
two-lane highways and exit ramps. If the curve is very sharp, a square, yellow,
advisory speed sign may be posted beneath the warning sign to advise you of the
maximum safe speed for that curve. In addition, chevron-shaped markings may be
used to emphasize the risk. Like all speed limits, temporary limits are based on
ideal road conditions.
Diamond shaped signs like these mean that the load on the truck is dangerous and
tell what the danger is. Some loads have code numbers. CHP or fire department
officers know what to do if the load is accidentally spilled. Vehicles which display
these signs, must stop before crossing railroad tracks.
When you come to an intersection, scan for hazards, traffic controls and
prohibitive signs; these will help you determine what type of intersection
it might be. For instance, controlled intersections are intersections that
give the driver some type of indication as to what to do and when to do it.
It may be in the form of a sign, a signal, or a person, such as a traffic
officer providing instruction as to when to go, stop, or turn. An
uncontrolled intersection, however, has no indicators of any kind to
control the flow of traffic. Scan for potential hazards because these types of
intersections can be deadly. When does a driver stop; when does he go? Which
vehicle can go first? These issues concern the definition of "right-of-way," and it is
a most important bit of knowledge to have if you want to drive safely.
"MARKED" vs. "UNMARKED" Intersections: Painted line markings determine
whether it is a marked or an unmarked intersection. If there are painted lines, this
means certain vehicles have the right-of-way. If there are NO painted lines, this is
an unmarked intersection and the right-of-way is given to the first vehicle to arrive
at the intersection, or the vehicle to your right. Always proceed with caution,
regardless of right-of-way at an unmarked intersection.
Entering the Intersection with Another Vehicle:This is a prima facie rule. It applies
unless there is a sign or other control stating otherwise. If a driver has the right-ofway to enter an intersection into which another vehicle has also entered - yield! It
really makes no difference who has the true right-of-way if, when exercising your
right-of-way, an accident results. The secret is to reach your destination safely.
Being right is small consolation when you have died in an accident.
Pedestrians and Intersections: Another prima facie or default rule: A driver should
always yield to a pedestrian even if that pedestrian has no business being in the
intersection. When a driver stops at an intersection, he or she should come to a
complete stop before the white "limit line" so that pedestrians can safely walk in
front of your vehicle.
Parking Lot or Driveway Intersections: Drivers entering a street from a parking lot
or driveway must yield to all traffic on the street. It would be nice if other drivers
let these drivers in; but if no one does, they should not get themselves or someone
else killed expressing their frustration.
An uncontrolled intersection, however, has no indicators of any kind to control the

flow of traffic and all driving decisions are made by the "Right of Way" rules.
Four-Way Stops: The driver first arriving at an intersection has the right of way to
first leave.
Two Vehicles at the Same Time: When two vehicles reach an intersection at the
same time, the vehicle on the right ALWAYS has the right-of-way. Just remember
this simple saying. "RIGHT = RIGHT-OF-WAY."
Emergency Vehicles and Intersections: If an emergency vehicle is sounding its
sirens and approaches while a driver is in an intersection, they should get out of the
intersection as safely as possible, pull over to the right and wait until the
emergency vehicle has passed.
Freeway Intersections: (on-ramps and off-ramps) On-ramps are also called
"acceleration lanes" because their purpose is to provide time for entering vehicles
to accelerate and enter traffic at the same speed as freeway traffic. By the time
drivers are ready to enter freeway traffic, they are expected to be at freeway speed.
If the acceleration lane merges with the slow lane of the freeway, the car entering
the freeway must give way to the car already in the slow lane.
Blind intersections are intersections where you cannot see for 100 feet in
either direction during the last 100 feet before crossing.
Trees, bushes, buildings, or parked cars at intersections can block your view
of cars coming from the side. You need to approach an "uncontrolled blind"
intersection slowly enough to be able to stop if a car pulls out suddenly.
The speed limit in any alley is 15 mph.
All roads are painted with markings which give you the driver information about
the different options you have or do not have while driving, please read the
following regarding this.
Passing - indicated by broken white or yellow lines. Solid white indicates extra
caution, solid yellow means no passing. If solid on one side and broken on the
other, the driver on the broken side may pass, but the driver on the solid side may
not.
Double Yellow Lines - means NO passing. However, a left turn into a drive can be
made if not otherwise prohibited and when safe, also U-Turns can be made when
safe.
Two sets of double lines - indicates NO Passing or Turning and function as a

barrier.
Limit Lines - white lines painted across traffic lanes where you are required to stop
at intersections.
Left-turn center lane - a set of solid outside/broken inside lines, used for turning
left to leave a street, turning left into a street and legal U- Turns. You must enter
the lane completely.
Distinctive Roadway Markings
21459. (a) The Department of Transportation in respect to state highways and a local authority with respect to highways
under its jurisdiction, is authorized to place and maintain upon highways distinctive roadway markings as described and with
the effect set forth in Section 21460.
(b) The distinctive roadway markings shall be employed to designate any portion of a highway where the volume of traffic or
the vertical or other curvature of the roadway renders it hazardous to drive on the left side of the marking or to indicate no
driving to the left as provided in Section 21460, and shall not be employed for any other purpose.
(c) Any pavement marking other than as described in this section placed by the Department of Transportation or any local
authority shall not be effective to indicate no driving over or to the left of the marking.
ADDITIONAL PAVEMENT MARKINGS
Bicycle lanes - solid white lines four feet from the curb with the words "Bicycle
Lane" printed at intervals on the pavement. This area is reserved for bicycles and
may not be used except: to park where parking is permitted, or when preparing to
turn but only within a distance of 200 feet of an intersection. Pedestrians may not
use bicycle lane where sidewalks are provided. Mopeds may use them with caution.
Crosswalks - are those with a solid white or yellow line (School Zones) and
indicate pedestrian crossings. If unmarked and the streets with sidewalks meet at
about right angles, they still are considered crosswalks. Give pedestrians right of
way.
Limit Lines - white lines painted across traffic lanes where you are required to stop
at intersections.
USE OF LANES
Left Turn Center Lane

If a street has a left turn center lane, you must use it when you turn left. You may
only drive for 200 feet in the center left turn lane. This is to help prevent drivers
from using this lane as a regular traffic lane or as a passing lane.
To turn left from the street, drive completely inside the center left turn lane. Don't
stop part way into the lane, with the back of your vehicle blocking traffic. Make
sure the lane is clear in both directions and then turn only when it is safe. Look for
vehicles coming head on toward you in the same lane as they start to make their
left turns.
In the picture above, cars C* and D* are in the left turn center lane in the middle of
a two-way street. The lane is marked on both sides by two painted lines, inner line
broken, outer line solid. When this lane is available, use it to begin or end left turns
or to start a permitted U-turn.
Car E* can move into the broken-line bike lane no more than 200 feet before
turning right. Watch for bicycles and foot traffic.
*Capital letters correspond to letters in the examples.
Turning Movements and Required Signals

22107. No person shall turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway until such movement can be
made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter in
the event any other vehicle may be affected by the movement.
Amended Ch. 1996, Stats. 1959. Effective September 18, 1959.
Regulation of Turns at Intersection
22101. (a) The Department of Transportation or local authorities in respect to highways under their respective jurisdictions,
may cause official traffic control devices to be placed or erected within or adjacent to intersections to regulate or prohibit
turning movements at such intersections.
(b) When turning movements are required at an intersection notice of such requirement shall be given by erection of a sign,
unless an additional clearly marked traffic lane is provided for the approach to the turning movement, in which event notice
as applicable to such additional traffic lane shall be given by any official traffic control device.
(c) When right- or left-hand turns are prohibited at an intersection notice of such prohibition shall be given by erection of a
sign.
(d) When official traffic control devices are placed as required in subdivisions (b) or (c), it shall be unlawful for any driver of
a vehicle to disobey the directions of such official traffic control devices.
TURNING
Left Turn: Get close to the center divider line or into the left turn lane (if there is
one). When turning left, don't turn too soon and "cut the corner" of the lane
belonging to cars coming toward you.
Right Turn: If you are turning right, get close to the right edge of the road (watch
for bicycles or motorcycles between your car and the curb). On a right turn, don't
turn wide. Stay in the right lane until you have finished your turn.
ROAD MARKINGS
A* You may cross a solid double yellow line to turn left.
/p>
* Two sets of solid double yellow lines which are two or more feet wide sometimes
appear as a road marking. Such lines stand for a solid wall. Don't drive on or over
such a road marking. You may not make a left turn or U-turn across it. Cross only
at plainly marked openings.
When turning left from a side street or driveway, wait until it is safe, then drive
into the center left turn lane. Signal before moving into regular traffic. Enter traffic
only when it is safe.
You may drive across a center left turn lane.
Double Lines
21460. (a) When double parallel solid lines are in place, no person driving a vehicle shall drive to the left thereof, except as
permitted in this section.
(b) When the double parallel lines, one of which is broken, are in place, no person driving a vehicle shall drive to the left
thereof, except as follows:
(1) That the driver on that side of the roadway in which the broken line is in place may cross over the double line or drive to
the left thereof when overtaking or passing other vehicles.
(2) As provided in Section 21460.5.
(c) Either of the markings as specified in subdivision (a) or (b) does not prohibit a driver from crossing the marking when (1)
turning to the left at any intersection or into or out of a driveway or private road, or (2) making a U-turn under the rules
governing that turn, and either of the markings shall be disregarded when authorized signs have been erected designating
offcenter traffic lanes as permitted under Section 21657.
(d) Raised pavement markers may be used to simulate painted lines described in this section when the markers are placed in
accordance with standards established by the Department of Transportation.
Right Turn Against A Red Light. Make a full stop for a red traffic light at the limit
line, if there is one, or before entering the intersection. If there is no sign which
prohibits a right turn on the red light, you may turn right. Be careful that you do
not interfere with pedestrians, bicyclists, or vehicles moving on their green light.
Left Turn Against Red Light On A One Way Street Only. Make a full stop for a red
traffic light at the limit line, if there is one, or before entering the intersection. On
a one -way street, you may turn left into a one-way street where traffic moves left
if there is no sign which prohibits the left turn. If the light is red, be very careful
that you do not interfere with pedestrians, bicyclists, or vehicles moving on their
green light.
NO TURN AGAINST RED ARROW. A right or left turn may not be made against a red
arrow.
Examples Of Right And Left Turns
The numbers on the cars refer to the numbered sentences below.
1. Left turn from a two-way street. Start the turn at the left hand edge of the lane
closest to the middle of the street. You may complete the turn in either lane of the
cross street (as shown by arrows) if it is safe to do so. You must use a left turn
lane if there is one. A left turn from the next lane (shown by *) may be made if
signs or arrows show it is okay.
2. Right turn. The yellow station wagon is turning correctly. It began the turn in
the lane nearest the right-hand curb. It will end the turn in the lane nearest the
right-hand curb. Do not swing wide into another lane of traffic. You may start a
right turn from other than the far right lane only where pavement or overhead
markings show that using that lane for a right turn is permitted.
Two-Way Left-Turn Lanes
21460.5. (a) The Department of Transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions may designate a two-way
left-turn lane on a highway. A two-way left-turn lane is a lane near the center of the highway set aside for use by vehicles
making left turns in both directions from or into the highway.
(b) Two-way left-turn lanes shall be designated by distinctive roadway markings consisting of parallel double yellow lines,
interior line dashed and exterior line solid, on each side of the lane. The Department of Transportation may determine and
prescribe standards and specifications governing length, width, and positioning of the distinctive pavement markings. All
pavement markings designating a two-way left-turn lane shall conform to the Department of Transportation's standards and
specifications.
(c) A vehicle shall not be driven in a designated two-way left-turn lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from
or into a highway or when preparing for or making a U-turn when otherwise permitted by law, and shall not be driven in that
lane for more than 200 feet while preparing for and making the turn or while preparing to merge into the adjacent lanes of
travel. A left turn or U-turn shall not be made from any other lane where a two-way left-turn lane has been designated.
(d) This section shall not prohibit driving across a two-way left-turn lane.
(e) Raised pavement markers may be used to simulate painted lines described in this section when such markers are placed in
accordance with standards established by the Department of Transportation.
3. Left turn from a two-way street into a one-way street. Start the turn from the
far left-hand portion of your side of the road. You may turn into any lane that is
safely open, as shown by arrows.
4. Left turn from a one-way street into a two-way street. Start the turn from the
far left-hand portion of your side of the road. The pickup truck may turn into either
of the lanes that is safely open, as shown.
5. Left turn from a one-way street into a one-way street. The turn must be started
from the left hand portion of the road. Watch for bicycles between your vehicle and
the curb because they can legally use the left turn lane for their left turns.
6. Right turn from a one-way street into a one-way street. After starting your turn
in the far right lane, you may use any lane open to traffic, if safe to do so.
Sometimes signs or pavement markings will let you turn right from a lane next to
the far right lane (shown by *).
7. Turn at a "T" intersection from a one-way into a two -way street. Through traffic
has the right-of-way. You may turn either right or left from the center lane. Watch
for vehicles and bicycles inside your turn.
INTERSECTION PROHIBITIVE SIGNS
Check for signs and markings that control your movement. Is a traffic signal, a
yield sign or a stop sign present? Are turns allowed? If so, are they restricted to
certain times of the day or to certain types of vehicles? Are there special turning
lanes?
CHECK FOR POTENTIAL HAZARDS AT INTERSECTIONS
Before you make a turn at an intersection, check the roadway for hazards, choose
the correct lane, communicate your intentions and position the car correctly.
Prepare for the turn 200 to 300 feet in advance of the intersection.
DESIGNATED LANES AND SPEEDS FOR SPECIAL VEHICLES

There are special vehicles on the road that require you to be extra cautious and
lower your speed for. These vehicles may be traveling in regular traffic lanes or in
designated lanes to aid in their travel.
Emergency vehicles - When you meet ambulances, police cars and fire trucks with
lights flashing or sirens on, you should yield the right-of-way. Pull to the right and
stop or otherwise provide a clear path for the emergency vehicle.
Recreational vehicles - Recreational vehicles are harder for
drivers to handle than cars because of their size and weight.
Allow an added margin of safety if you encounter one,
especially in a strong wind. Remember that its' driver has
limited visibility to the rear and to the sides.
Maintenance Vehicles - Road work involves vehicles of many
sizes and shapes with the potential to disrupt traffic. Drivers
need to be alert to such vehicles and to adjust speed and
position to accommodate sudden moves.
Most of the time, whenever drivers must pass another driver, they will be doing so
on the left. Therefore, the following instructions refer to passing on the left.
Drivers should be sure that it is legal to pass where they are intending to
pass.
Drivers should turn on their turn signal or at the very least, "flick" it before
moving out into the passing lane.
Drivers should check the road ahead for oncoming traffic. There is a passing
distance, called the PASSING RANGE, which is required for each separate
instance of passing. The speed of the vehicle being passed and its speed
while passing determine this passing maneuver time. If, as a driver, you are
certain an oncoming vehicle will not enter your passing range while you are
passing, go ahead and pass. If you are uncertain, use good judgment and do
not pass. A rapid decision like this can save your life.
Before they pull out into the passing lane, drivers should check both rear
view mirrors to make sure someone has not first decided to pass them.
Drivers should check their "blind spot" by looking over their left shoulder.
Once drivers have checked the front once more and determined it is safe and
have established a safe response time, should a possible hazard arise, then
they may move out into the passing lane to make the pass. Motorists should
not signal their intention to pass by flicking their high beams. High beams
can blind oncoming drivers.
Drivers should accelerate at least 10 to 15 miles per hour faster than the car
they intend to pass. For example, at 60 mph, you are traveling at 88 feet per
second and will be in the passing lane for 1350 feet. If an approaching
vehicle is traveling at the same speed, you will need 2700 feet to complete
the pass. By the way, 2700 feet is over half a mile!
Play it safe to pass another day.
If you are in the slightest doubt about the distance
required to pass safely, do not do it! It is as simple as
that.
Once drivers have passed the vehicle in front of them,
they should check their inside rear view mirror. They
should not re-enter into the regular lane until they can
clearly see the vehicle they just passed in their inside
rear view mirror! When they can see the vehicle, they
should first signal their intention to move back into the
lane.
Re-entering the lane should be done smoothly and the
driver should resume a speed consistent with the speed
limit.
Overtake and Pass to Left

21750. The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle or a bicycle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left at
a safe distance without interfering with the safe operation of the overtaken vehicle or bicycle, subject to the limitations and
exceptions hereinafter stated.
Amended Sec. 7, Ch. 674, Stats. 1996. Effective January 1, 1997.
There are a few instances when passing on the right is permitted:

A driver may pass on the right when another vehicle is preparing to make a
left turn and there is room to pass safely on the roadway.
Drivers may pass on the right when they are on the open road and there are
two or more lanes marked in their direction.
A driver may pass on the right when in a business or residential area where
the road is wide enough for two or more vehicles traveling in the same
direction.
When passing vehicles going in the same direction on a one-way road.
When the left half of the road is blocked.

When another vehicle is turning left at an intersection, into or out of, a
private road or driveway
Passing on the Right

21754. The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass to the right of another vehicle only under the following
conditions:
(a) When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left turn.
(b) Upon a highway within a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more
lines of moving vehicles in the direction of travel.
(c) Upon any highway outside of a business or residence district with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width and clearly
marked for two or more lines of moving traffic in the direction of travel.
(d) Upon a one-way street.
(e) Upon a highway divided into two roadways where traffic is restricted to one direction upon each of such roadways.
The provisions of this section shall not relieve the driver of a slow moving vehicle from the duty to drive as closely as
practicable to the right hand edge of the roadway.
Pass on Right Safely

21755. The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass another vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting
such movement in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off the paved or main-traveled portion of the
roadway.
WHEN IS PASSING ILLEGAL?
As far as driving goes, illegal and dumb are really just the same thing. Traffic laws
are instituted to protect you. As you examine these rules, you may wish to consider
this fact: At 60 mph, a driver will travel 132 feet in 1.5 seconds (60 mph is 1 mile
per minute, or 88 ft. a second!). At that speed, if you collide with another vehicle,
you needn't worry about getting a ticket. Chances are very good that a ticket will
never be issued. The police do not give tickets to seriously injured or dead people.
The following situations are examples of when passing can be dangerous if not
deadly
A driver may not pass within 100 feet of a railroad crossing.
A driver may not pass within 100 feet of, or in the middle of, an intersection.
Drivers may not pass on a curve (even a slight curve) when they cannot see
far enough to guarantee safety.
Drivers may not pass while ascending a hill when they cannot see far enough
to pass safely. Remember, a driver's ability to accelerate away from danger is
impaired while ascending a hill.
Drivers may not pass when there is not ample safe passing distance between
them and on-coming vehicles.
Drivers may not pass within 100 feet of a bridge, tunnel, or viaduct when
their view is impaired or when there is no available escape route should they
meet an oncoming vehicle.
Drivers may not pass if passing safely requires them to exceed the posted
speed limit.
A driver may not pass when a cyclist, pedestrian, or parked vehicle is along
the shoulder of the road. Can you see the reason why? In a sudden
emergency situation, the vehicle being passed has no room to evade safely.
A driver is not allowed to drive his or her car to the left of the center line
during normal circumstances but may do so to pass another vehicle when
legal.
Passing Without Sufficient Clearance

21751. On a two-lane highway, no vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and
passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for
a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely made without interfering with the safe
operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.

Passing on Grades
21758. In the event any vehicle is being operated on any grade outside of a business or residence district at a speed of less
than 20 miles per hour, no person operating any other motor vehicle shall attempt to overtake and pass such slow moving
vehicle unless the overtaking vehicle is operated at a speed of at least 10 miles per hour in excess of the speed of the
overtaken vehicle, nor unless the passing movement is completed within a total distance not greater than one-quarter of a
mile.
BEING PASSED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE

Except when passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle is
required to yield in favor of the overtaking vehicle on audible signal or the
momentary flash of headlights by the overtaking vehicle and shall not increase the
speed of his vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
Yielding for Passing

21753. Except when passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle shall safely move to the right-hand
side of the highway in favor of the overtaking vehicle after an audible signal or a momentary flash of headlights by the
overtaking vehicle, and shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle.
This section does not require the driver of an overtaken vehicle to drive on the shoulder of the highway in order to allow the
overtaking vehicle to pass.
PASSING LANES
Yellow and white lines are placed on the pavement to separate traffic lanes moving
in opposite directions. You stay on your side, and I'll stay on mine. The National
Highway Transportation System, combined with state regulations, has
implemented a family of pavement markings to indicate when and where a driver
can pass safely. The rules are not intended to slow you down; they are intended to
save your life. When you see a "no-passing" area, it is there for that reason.
When Driving on Left Prohibited

21752. No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the roadway under the following conditions:
(a) When approaching or upon the crest of a grade or a curve in the highway where the drivers view is obstructed within
such distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might approach from the opposite direction.
(b) When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.
(c) When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any railroad grade crossing.
(d)When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any intersection.
This section shall not apply upon a one-way roadway.
A
- A Solid Double Yellow Line separates traffic in
both directions. When a driver sees a solid double line,
it is never legal to pass another vehicle unless there
are two or more lanes in the driver's direction of
travel. The driver may cross a solid double line only to enter a driveway or a
private road. If a U-turn permitted sign is posted, the driver may make a U-turn
across a solid double line. Of course, any of these maneuvers may be made only if
it is safe to make them.
B - Two Sets of Solid Yellow Lines. These lines
mark a strip of pavement two or more feet
wide. Consider them the same as a concrete
barrier. Drivers may not cross or drive over
them. They may not make a left or U-turn over
them. As long as the lines are solid, drivers
should think of them as a wall. They may cross only where the lines are broken and
permit turns.
C, D - Left turn center lane in the middle of a two-way
street. The lane is marked on both sides by two
painted lines. The inner line is broken; the outer line
solid. When this lane is available, the driver should
use it to begin or end left turns or to start a permitted
U-turn.
E - Drivers should move into the broken line bike lane
at a point no more than 200 feet before making a right turn. As they are moving
into the bike line, they should be on careful watch for bicyclists and pedestrians.
TURNING LANES
On a two-way street, left-turn lanes are positioned toward the center of the road
and outlined by two painted lines. The inner line is broken/dashed, and the outer
line is dashed or continuous. These lanes may be used only to turn left and may not
be used to pass another vehicle. To use this lane, drivers must be entirely within
its borders. They should not allow their vehicle to stick out beyond the borders at
an angle blocking traffic in other lanes. They should signal their turn and then turn
only when it appears safe to do so.
Turning Upon a Highway

22100. Except as provided in Section 22100.5 or 22101, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn upon a highway shall do
so as follows:
(a) Right Turns. Both the approach for a right-hand turn and a right-hand turn shall be made as close as practicable to the
right-hand curb or edge of the roadway except:
(1) Upon a highway having three marked lanes for traffic moving in one direction which terminates at an intersecting
highway accommodating traffic in both directions, the driver of a vehicle in the middle lane may turn right into any lane
lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered.
(2) When a right-hand turn is made from a one-way highway at an intersection, a driver shall approach the turn as provided in
subdivision (a) and shall complete the turn in any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway
being entered.
(3) Upon a highway having an additional lane or lanes marked for a right turn by appropriate signs or markings, the driver of
a vehicle may turn right from any lane designated and marked for that turning movement.
(b) Left Turns. The approach for a left turn shall be made as close as practicable to the left-hand edge of the extreme left-hand
lane or portion of the roadway lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel of such vehicle and, when turning
at an intersection, the left turn shall not be made before entering the intersection. After entering the intersection, the left turn
shall be made so as to leave the intersection in a lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway
being entered, except:
(1) Upon a highway having three marked lanes for traffic moving in one direction which terminates at an intersecting
highway accommodating traffic in both directions, the driver of a vehicle in the middle lane may turn left into any lane
lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered.
We keep mentioning "only when it is safe to do so" because there is a

misconception some drivers have that when the law allows something, they think
they should then be able to do it and other drivers will just naturally allow it. For
example, just because a lane allows a left turn does not mean that drivers can turn
left whenever they want. They may turn only when it is safe. If a traffic signal
turns green, that does not mean that they can forget about cross traffic. Some
other driver may run his or her red light. So, even though a driver has a green
light, he or she must proceed with caution.
BICYCLE LANES
A solid white line along either side of the street marks a bicycle lane. This line will
be found four or more feet from the curb and will usually be broken near the
corner. The designation "Bike Lane" may be painted at intervals or displayed on
signs posted near the edge of the curb. Bicycle lanes on city and county streets are
not controlled by the state. Instead, local government controls them. The only
times a driver may enter a bicycle lane is either to park or to turn right. In certain
localities, local regulations will permit entering a bicycle lane only within 200 feet
of a driver's turn. Pedestrians are not allowed in bicycle lanes when sidewalks are
available, but motorized bicycles may use bicycle lanes. How particular bicycle lane
usage is enforced from place to place will vary.
Turning Across Bicycle Lane

21717. Whenever it is necessary for the driver of a motor vehicle to cross a bicycle lane that is adjacent to his lane of travel to
make a turn, the driver shall drive the motor vehicle into the bicycle lane prior to making the turn and shall make the turn
pursuant to Section 22100.
Added Ch. 751, Stats. 1976. Effective January 1, 1977.
LEGAL U-TURNS
When you make a U-turn, you turn around and go back the way you came. Before
you do this, you need to scan for possible hazards, such as other vehicles,
pedestrians and bicycles. Make the turn only from the far left lane, and quickly
straighten you car and proceed in the other direction. You may cross a double white
or a double yellow line to make a U-turn, if the turn can be made safely and legally.
If the street has a center left turn lane, begin your U-turn in that lane.
You may make a U-turn in a residential district:
If no vehicle approaching you is closer than 200 feet.
Whenever a traffic sign or signal protects you from vehicles which are close.
U-Turn at Controlled Intersection

22100.5. No driver shall make a U-turn at an intersection controlled by official traffic signals except as provided in Section
21451, and then only from the far lefthand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel from
which the turn is commenced. No driver shall make a U-turn at an intersection controlled by official traffic control devices
except from the far lefthand lane that is lawfully available to traffic moving in the direction of travel from which the turn is
commenced.
At an intersection, you may make a U-turn on a green light or green arrow unless a
"No U-turn" sign is posted.
Before you make a U-turn on a divided highway, be sure you won't drive over or
across any dividing section, curb, or strip. This includes:
Two sets of double lines marking a center divider except through an opening
provided for turns.
The unpaved median in the middle of the freeway.
ILLEGAL U-TURNS
Never make a U-turn on a highway by crossing a curb, or strip of land, or two sets
of double lines.
You may not make a U-turn:
Where you cannot clearly see 200 feet in each direction because of a curve,
hill, rain, fog, or other reason.
Where a "NO U-TURN" sign is posted.
When vehicles may hit you.
On a one-way street.
In front of a fire station. Never use a fire station driveway to turn around.
In a business district*, except at intersections or through openings in a
concrete divider.
*Churches, apartments, multiple dwelling houses, clubs, and public buildings, other
than schools, are considered to be business structures.
U-Turn in Business District
22102. No person in a business district shall make a U-turn, except at an intersection, or on a divided highway where an opening has
been provided in accordance with Section 21651. This turning movement shall be made as close as practicable to the extreme lefthand edge of the lanes moving in the driver's direction of travel immediately prior to the initiation of the turning movement, when
more than one lane in the direction of travel is present.
U-Turn in Residence District
22103. No person in a residence district shall make a U-turn when any other vehicle is approaching from either direction within 200
feet, except at an intersection when the approaching vehicle is controlled by an official traffic control device.
Amended Ch. 622, Stats. 1970. Effective November 3, 1970
Unobstructed View Necessary for U-Turn
22105. No person shall make a U-turn upon any highway where the driver of such vehicle does not have an unobstructed view for 200
feet in both directions along the highway and of any traffic thereon.
Amended Ch. 64, Stats. 1972. Effective March 7, 1973.
BACKING UP SAFELY
Always back slowly to avoid accidents, it is always dangerous because it is hard to
see what is behind your vehicle. Whenever you need to back up or back out of a
parking space, follow these rules:
Turn and look over your right shoulder when backing the vehicle. Do not
depend only looking out a side window.
Before getting in a vehicle, a driver should always check behind the car.
Children, pets, and small objects are hard to see from the driver's seat.
A driver should make sure that it is legal to back up. It is not legal on the
freeway.
A driver should check traffic in both directions.
Drivers should release the parking brake and look over their inside shoulder
with their left hand on the steering wheel. They should then release the foot
brake slowly. Drivers should apply the accelerator if needed and be ready to
brake to control the speed of the car. They should then proceed slowly.
A driver should check the front occasionally if backing up takes more than a
few seconds.
Backing around a corner is always a dangerous maneuver. A driver should go
slowly and stop until he or she gets a clear view of any traffic, pedestrians, or
other objects in the way.
If, as a driver, you notice movement is constricted when attempting to back
up, ask a passenger or someone to help you get out of the spot. Look through
the rearview and side-view mirrors before attempting to back up.
Since so many accidents occur while backing up, try not to back up if
possible. Rather, look for a parking space that does not require backing up.
Try to park in a relatively traffic free area; often, it is possible to drive
forward instead of backing up.
"FLASHING RED" Case Study #1

"Pizza Boy" Bob, the town's favorite pizza delivery boy is driving down the road in
his brand new Marinara Red pizza delivery truck.
Now Bob's not too good with directions so he has to pull over and consult his trusty
map. As he plots his pull over point he encounters many different colored curbs. He
sees red, yellow, green and blue. What curb is legal for Bob to make a temporary
stop? Lucky for Bob he knows the law and chose the green curb. Why? Because,
green curbs mean limited time parking only, but what do the other colors mean?
Red means, No parking, stopping or standing. Yellow means, Loading zone. Only to
pick up, unload passengers, freight. The time varies from location to location. And
Blue means, Vehicle belonging to handicapped persons only. You must have special
plates/placard. Good going Bob!
Bob finds the directions he needs and continues. Along his delivery route he
approaches a four-way intersection and notices that the traffic signal is flashing
RED. What should "Pizza Boy Bob" do? Should he simply slow down while traveling
through the intersection or should he treat the flashing red light as a stop sign?
What would you do?
Well, "Pizza Boy" Bob should know that when you approach a traffic signal that is
flashing red, you should treat it as though it was a stop sign and STOP! If the signal
is not working, you should treat it as a stop sign as well.
Section 2 of 5
Whether you're calm, nervous or hot-tempered, your personality affects the way
you drive. Don't let your emotions dictate the way you drive.
Don't "Blow your stack!" - When stress occurs due to other driver's lack of courtesy
or recklessness, think over the situation, coolly reason your response; avoid
reacting in a like manner. Initiate the action, using defensive driving techniques.
Mental/Physical: Try to avoid driving when upset or excited. It dramatically

decreases your alertness and judgment. When driving, always try to remain calm
and relaxed. Do not however, use drugs or alcohol to relax. Also, try to avoid
stressful situations. If you cannot, pull over where safe and calm down. Also, avoid
driving when sick. Illness will decrease your reaction time.
Driving angry is dangerous to you and other drivers. Signs that you are driving
angry include, tailgating, horn-blowing at the slightest inconvenience, driving too
fast for the conditions and weaving in and out of traffic.
You must remember that you have a dangerous weapon in your hands. If you are
waiting in rush-hour traffic too long you may become angry. If you feel that you are
too angry to drive, don't.
THE STRESSED DRIVER
Stress and driving are a dangerous combination. You may become
stressed-out from the ever-increasing demands of your personal
life and that stress could translate into a collision. As the tension
mounts, judgment wavers. Remember, nothing is stressful unless
we permit it to be.
Driving when fatigued can be fatal. Every year, hundreds of drivers fall asleep at
the wheel and many are killed in fatal accidents. These sleepy drivers probably
thought they could stay awake long enough to arrive home. They could not stay
awake, and for them, they never arrived home.
A few helpful hints to stay more alert include, rolling down the window and turning
up the radio or stopping and getting some coffee. If these methods are not working
for you, the most responsible thing you can do is to pull over and rest for a while.
Better to get home later than not get home at all.
If you are fatigued, you are less alert. You may not see
hazards as soon or react as quickly, which increases the
possibility of danger. Remember you not only need to
concentrate on what YOU are doing, but also what OTHER
DRIVERS are doing as well. If you are sleepy, the only safe
cure is to get off the road and rest. If you don't, you risk not
only your life, but also the lives of others around you.
To keep from getting tired on a long trip
1. Get a lot of rest before you start
2. Don't take any drugs that can make you drowsy
3. Don't drive for an extended period of time (Set a
common sense limit of 300 to 400 miles a day)
4. Roll your window down and get some fresh air in your face
Such emotions such as anger can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. Never
express your anger on the road. REMEMBER: DRIVING A CAR IS AS DANGEROUS AS
PLAYING WITH A LOADED GUN.
If you know the route, make allowance for time, traffic and
delays. Start early enough so that you have time for unseen
circumstances. Take the ENVIRONMENT into account, such
as weather, road conditions and other possible distractions.
Poor weather necessitates lower speeds. If you don't know
the route, plan as well as possible, using a map and any
other reference including people who know your proposed
route. Make extra allowance for time, more so than if you
know the route.
AGE FACTORS
Drivers over 55 years have a poorer collision record than drivers in middle years.
The aging or over 55 driver is also a growing number each year, making up about
25% of today's drivers.
Eyesight or vision problems begin generally in the early 30's, (i.e., loss of
peripheral vision) need for more illumination rises & glare sensitivity increases at
about 40. Adapting to darkness becomes more of a problem as one grows older,
(although people reduce the amount of driving that they do as they grow older).
Corrective lenses may be needed or a change of the present prescription may be in
order. If your vision is impaired, your driving will also be impaired. Collisions
involving older drivers are more often fatal than those involving young and middleage drivers.
WEARING GLASSES OR CONTACT LENSES
Follow your eye doctor's advice about glasses or corrective contact lenses. If your
eye doctor tells you to wear them for driving, do it. If your license says you must
wear "corrective lenses," wear them. You may be fined if you drive without wearing
them. Never wear dark glasses or sunglasses at night. Consult your eye doctor
before wearing tinted contact lenses at night. They can make it hard to see. Don't
wear eyeglasses with temples wide enough to keep you from seeing clearly to the
sides.
STEREO EARPHONES AND RADIO LEVELS
Earphones, headphones, or a headset covering are ILLEGAL when worn in both ears
for all autos, motorcycles and bicycles. Volume level of radios may not be so loud as
to interfere with normal driving. Certain high-noise vehicles and emergency vehicle
drivers are exempt to this rule.
BE COURTEOUS
Since the roadway is to be shared by all drivers, treat other drivers as you would
like to be treated. Be as courteous while DRIVING as in OTHER social contacts. If
you see something wrong with someone's car, tell him or her. A bad taillight or a
low tire may cause an accident later. Make room for other drivers who wish to pull
into heavy traffic or change lanes. Often they will reward you with a smile or nod of
thanks. Courtesy makes order out of chaos.
SIGNALS FOR DRIVERS AND BICYCLISTS
Signal to other drivers when you plan to turn left or right, slow down, or stop.
Signals must be given by signal lights on the vehicle. If your vehicle is not required
to be and is not equipped with turn signals, then you must use hand-and-arm
signals. Also, if your signal lights on your vehicle become inoperable, then you must
use hand-and-arm signals. Watch for signals from other drivers. If your vehicle is
built so that hand-and-arm signals cannot easily be seen, signal lights must be
used. Signal your left or right turn during the last 100 feet before reaching the
turning point. At highway speeds, it is best to signal at least five seconds before
you change lanes. If bright sunlight makes signal lights hard to see, use hand-andarm signals also. Motorcyclists often use hand signals to make themselves more
visible. Bicycle riders may give right turn signals with their right arm held straight
out, pointing right.
NEW LAW FOR 2010
Amends Vehicle Code Section 27602
Allows a person to drive a motor vehicle with a television receiver, video monitor,
television or video screen, or any other similar means of visually displaying a
television broadcast or video signal, if the equipment is designed, operated, and
configured in a manner that prevents the driver of the motor vehicle from viewing
the television broadcast or video signal while operating the vehicle in a safe and
reasonable manner.
California's "Basic Speed Law" says that you must never drive faster than is safe for
the current conditions; the purpose is to help control the ever-changing driving
environments.
22350. Basic Speed Law
Basic Speed Law

22350. No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather,
visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or
property.
The purpose of minimum speed laws are to ensure safe traffic flow on roadways.
If you block the normal and reasonable flow of traffic by driving too slowly, you
may receive a ticket.
22400. Minimum Speed Law
Minimum Speed Law

22400. (a) No person shall drive upon a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of
traffic, unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation, because of a grade, or in compliance with law.
No person shall bring a vehicle to a complete stop upon a highway so as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of
traffic unless the stop is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law.
(b) Whenever the Department of Transportation determines on the basis of an engineering and traffic survey that slow speeds on any
part of a state highway consistently impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, the department may determine and declare
a minimum speed limit below which no person shall drive a vehicle, except when necessary for safe operation or in compliance with
law, when appropriate signs giving notice thereof are erected along the part of the highway for which a minimum speed limit is
established.
Subdivision (b) of this section shall apply only to vehicles subject to registration.
The maximum speed limit on most California highways is 65 mph. However, for two
lane undivided highways, the maximum speed limit is 55 mph, unless posted for a
higher speed. On some highways the maximum speed limit is 70 mph, but only if
there are signs posted showing 70 mph. Other speed limits are set for the type of
roads and traffic in each area. All speed limits are based on ideal driving conditions.
Driving faster than the posted speed limit, or than it is safe for current conditions,
on any road is dangerous and illegal. High speed increases your stopping distance.
The faster you go, the less time you have to avoid a hazard or collision. The force of
a 60 mph crash isn't just twice as great as at 30 mph, it's four times as great!
*Remember, you may not drive faster than the posted or maximum speed limit,
even if you think it is safe to do so.
No matter what the speed limit sign may say, your speed should depend on the
following:
The number, and speed of other cars on the road.
Whether the road surface is smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or
narrow.
Bicyclists, or pedestrians walking on the edge of the road.
The amount of rain, fog, snow, ice, wind, or dust.
For example, if you are driving 45 mph in a 55 mph speed zone during a dense fog,
you could be cited by a police officer for driving "too fast for conditions."
The Prima facie speed limit
is a speed limit for certain situations, which is enforced unless the posted limit is
different. "Prima facie" is Latin for "at first view," which means you should see it
the first time.
22352. Prima Facie Speed Limits
Prima Facie Speed Limits

22352. The prima facie limits are as follows and shall be applicable unless changed as authorized in this code and, if so changed, only
when signs have been erected giving notice thereof:
(1) Fifteen miles per hour:
(A) When traversing a railway grade crossing, if during the last 100 feet of the approach to the crossing the driver does not have a
clear and unobstructed view of the crossing and of any traffic on the railway for a distance of 400 feet in both directions along the
railway. This subdivision does not apply in the case of any railway grade crossing where a human flagman is on duty or a clearly
visible electrical or mechanical railway crossing signal device is installed but does not then indicate the immediate approach of a
railway train or car.
(B) When traversing any intersection of highways if during the last 100 feet of the driver's approach to the intersection the driver does
not have a clear and unobstructed view of the intersection and of any traffic upon all of the highways entering the intersection for a
distance of 100 feet along all those highways, except at an intersection protected by stop signs or yield right-of-way signs or controlled
by official traffic control signals.
(C) On any alley.
(2) Twenty-five miles per hour:

(A) On any highway other than a state highway, in any business or residence district unless a different speed is determined by local
authority under procedures set forth in this code.
(B) When approaching or passing a school building or the grounds thereof, contiguous to a highway and posted with a standard
"SCHOOL" warning sign, while children are going to or leaving the school either during school hours or during the noon recess
period. The prima facie limit shall also apply when approaching or passing any school grounds which are not separated from the
highway by a fence, gate or other physical barrier while the grounds are in use by children and the highway is posted with a standard
"SCHOOL" warning sign. For purposes of this subparagraph, standard "SCHOOL" warning signs may be placed at any distance up to
500 feet away from school grounds.
(C) When passing a senior center or other facility primarily used by senior citizens, contiguous to a street other than a state highway
and posted with a standard "SENIOR" warning sign. A local authority is not required to erect any sign pursuant to this paragraph until
donations from private sources covering those costs are received and the local agency makes a determination that the proposed signing
should be implemented. A local authority may, however, utilize any other funds available to it to pay for the erection of those signs.
(3) Thirty-five miles per hour on any highway, other than a state highway, in any moderate density residential district, as defined in
subdivision (b) of Section 22352.1, when posted with a sign giving notice of that speed limit, unless a different speed is determined by
local authority under procedures set forth in this code.
(b) This section shall remain in effect only until March 1, 2001, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is
enacted on or before March 1, 2001, deletes or extends that date.
Amended and repealed Sec. 1, Ch. 421, Stats. 1997. Effective January 1, 1998. Repeal operative March 1, 2001.
NOTE: The preceding section is repealed March 1, 2001, at which time the following section becomes operative.
22352. (a) The prima facie limits are as follows and shall be applicable unless changed as authorized in this code and, if so changed,
only when signs have been erected giving notice thereof:
(1) Fifteen miles per hour:
(A) When traversing a railway grade crossing, if during the last 100 feet of the approach to the crossing the driver does not have a
clear and unobstructed view of the crossing and of any traffic on the railway for a distance of 400 feet in both directions along the
railway. This subdivision does not apply in the case of any railway grade crossing where a human flagman is on duty or a clearly
visible electrical or mechanical railway crossing signal device is installed but does not then indicate the immediate approach of a
railway train or car.
(B) When traversing any intersection of highways if during the last 100 feet of the driver's approach to the intersection the driver does
not have a clear and unobstructed view of the intersection and of any traffic upon all of the highways entering the intersection for a
distance of 100 feet along all those highways, except at an intersection protected by stop signs or yield right-of-way signs or controlled
by official traffic control signals.
(C) On any alley.
(2) Twenty-five miles per hour:
(A) On any highway other than a state highway, in any business or residence district unless a different speed is determined by local
authority under procedures set forth in this code.
(B) When approaching or passing a school building or the grounds thereof, contiguous to a highway and posted with a standard
"SCHOOL" warning sign, while children are going to or leaving the school either during school hours or during the noon recess
period. The prima facie limit shall also apply when approaching or passing any school grounds which are not separated from the
highway by a fence, gate, or other physical barrier while the grounds are in use by children and the highway is posted with a standard
"SCHOOL" warning sign. For purposes of this subparagraph, standard "SCHOOL" warning signs may be placed at any distance up to
500 feet away from school grounds.
(C) When passing a senior center or other facility primarily used by senior citizens, contiguous to a street other than a state highway
and posted with a standard "SENIOR" warning sign. A local authority is not required to erect any sign pursuant to this paragraph until
donations from private sources covering those costs are received and the local agency makes a determination that the proposed signing
should be implemented. A local authority may, however, utilize any other funds available to it to pay for the erection of those signs.
(b) This section shall become operative on March 1, 2001.
Added Sec. 2, Ch. 421, Stats. 1997. Effective January 1, 1998.
Amended Sec. 2, Ch. 521, Stats. 2000. Effective January 1, 2001. Operative March 1, 2001.
SPEED LIMITS FOR DESIGNATED AREAS

Business and residence areas
Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit is 25 miles per hour.
School zones
The presence of a "School" sign is an automatic alert to slow down. Any time
children are present in a school zone, the maximum speed limit is 25 miles per
hour. If you are driving in a school zone when children are present and the posted
speed limit is higher than 25 miles per hour, you must still limit your speed to 25
miles per hour. If you are driving in a school zone with a posted limit lower than 25
miles per hour, you must drive at the posted limit.
22348. Excessive Speed and Designated Lane Use
Excessive Speed and Designated Lane Use

22348. (a) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) of Section 22351, no person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway with a speed limit
established pursuant to Section 22349 or 22356 at a speed greater than that speed limit.
(b) Any person who drives a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than 100 miles per hour is guilty of an infraction punishable, as
follows:
(1) Upon a first conviction of a violation of this subdivision, by a fine of not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500). The court may also
suspend the privilege of the person to operate a motor vehicle for a period not to exceed 30 days pursuant to Section 13200.5.
(2) Upon a conviction under this subdivision of an offense which occurred within three years of a prior offense resulting in a
conviction of an offense under this subdivision, by a fine of not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500). The person's privilege to
operate a motor vehicle shall be suspended by the Department of Motor Vehicles pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 13355.
(3) Upon a conviction under this subdivision of an offense which occurred within five years of two or more prior offenses resulting in
convictions of offenses under this subdivision, by a fine of not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500). The person's privilege to operate
a motor vehicle shall be suspended by the Department of Motor Vehicles pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 13355.
(c) Any vehicle subject to Section 22406 shall be driven in a lane designated pursuant to Section 21655, or if no lane has been so
designated, in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb. When overtaking and passing
another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, the drivers shall use either the designated lane, the lane to the immediate left of the
right-hand lane, or the right-hand lane for traffic as permitted under this code. If, however, specific lane or lanes have not been
designated on a divided highway having four or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction, any such vehicle may also be
driven in the lane to the immediate left of the right-hand lane, unless otherwise prohibited under this code. This subdivision does not
apply to a driver who is preparing for a left- or right-hand turn or who is in the process of entering into or exiting from a highway or to
a driver who is required necessarily to drive in a lane other than the right-hand lane to continue on his or her intended route.
SPEED LIMITS FOR DESIGNATED VEHICLES
The state has designated speed limits for certain types of vehicles. The following
vehicles may never drive faster than 55 mph on freeways:
A trailer bus designated to transport more than 15 people
A
A
A
A
A
truck with three or more axles

school bus transporting students
tractor-trailer towing any other vehicle
vehicle transporting explosives
farm labor vehicle transporting any passengers
22406. Maximum Speed for Designated Vehicles
Maximum Speed for Designated Vehicles

22406. No person may drive any of the following vehicles on a highway
at a speed in excess of 55 miles per hour:
(a) A motortruck or truck tractor having three or more axles or any motortruck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle.
(b) A passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle.
(c) A schoolbus transporting any school pupil.
(d) A farm labor vehicle when transporting passengers.
(e) A vehicle transporting explosives.
(f) A "trailer bus" is a trailer or semitrailer designed, used, or maintained for the transportation of more than 15 persons, including the
driver, and includes a connected towing motor vehicle that is a motor truck, truck tractor, or bus.
Drive slower when there are many vehicles close together on the road.
Otherwise stopping safely will be harder because you have less room.
Drive slower so you can stop in the distance you have.
You should usually drive slower in these places:

Shopping centers, parking lots, and downtown areas.
Roads with heavy traffic.
When you see brake lights coming on several vehicles ahead of you.
Schools, playgrounds, residential streets.
Narrow bridges and tunnels.
Toll plazas.
HOW FAST IS TRAFFIC MOVING?

Accidents tend to happen when one driver is going faster or slower than other cars
on the road. If you are going faster than traffic, you will have to keep passing
other cars. Each time you pass another car, there is more chance for a collision. The
car you are passing may change lanes suddenly. On a two-lane road, an oncoming
car may appear suddenly. True, it may not be a big chance, but if you are passing
one car after another, the chances begin to add up. Studies have shown that
speeding does not save more than a few minutes in an hour's driving.
Going slower than other cars or stopping all of a sudden can be just as bad as
speeding. It tends to make cars bunch up behind you and it could cause a rear-end
crash. If many cars are pulling out to pass you, maybe you should increase your
speed to the speed limit or move over into the right lane.
In order to avoid last minute moves, you should look down the road 10 to 15
seconds ahead of your vehicle. A driver needs to look that far ahead to see hazards
early. Constantly staring at the road just in front of your car is dangerous.
If you look ahead, you will be able to see important things that you can't see later
on, such as someone getting into a parked car.
In the city, 10 to 15 seconds is about one block. When you drive in city traffic, you
should look at least one block ahead. On the highway, 10 to 15 seconds is about a
quarter of a mile.
Take In the Whole Scene: Looking 10 to 15 seconds ahead does not mean looking
only at the middle of the road. It means looking at the side of the road as well.
"Scanning" the roadside helps you to see:
Cars and people that may be in the road by the time you reach them.
Signs warning of problems ahead.
Signs giving you directions.
Keep your eyes moving: Look near and far. Turn your head before changing lanes,
because mirrors have blind spots. These blind spots can hide a motorcycle or
bicycle. Watch for things about to happen like a ball rolling into the street; a car
door opening; a swerving bicycle.
Watch for Hazards: Look beyond the car ahead of you. Don't develop a "fixed
stare." Look around. Keep your eyes moving. Check your rear view mirrors
frequently (every 2 to 5 seconds) so that you know the position of vehicles near
you.
On the freeway, be ready for changes in traffic conditions. Watch for signals from
other drivers. Expect merging vehicles at onramps and interchanges. Be prepared
for rapid changes in road conditions and traffic flow. As you look ahead, think
about what will (or might) happen on the road. Be alert for vehicles on either side,
to the front, and to the rear. Use your mirrors. Leave enough space between you
and the vehicle ahead for safe stops. Always leave yourself an "out." Mistakes
cause collisions. To protect yourself, know which lanes are clear so you can use
them if you need to.
What is defensive driving? It is driving to defend yourself against possible

collisions caused by bad drivers, drunk drivers, poor weather, and heavy traffic.
As a driver, it is your job to constantly be adjusting to the ever-changing
driving conditions.
You drive defensively when you:
Look ahead.
Put space between you and the vehicle ahead.
Keep your eyes moving.
Leave yourself an out.
Make sure other drivers see you.
If you look ahead, and keep your eyes moving, you will spot a hazard more
easily. Once you have seen the hazard and decided what to do, act. Never "wait
and see." Never think that everything will be all right. Children playing in the
street may not see you. The boy on the bike may ride in front of you. The man
opening a car door in your lane may not see you. If you have a collision, you
may not be legally at fault; however, you may be morally at fault, if you could
have prevented the collision, but didn't. Remember, you can prevent most
collisions
if
you
drive
defensively.
You should think about every "close shave" or collision you have. Decide what
went wrong and who made the mistake. Could you have avoided the collision or
near collision? What did you do wrong? By asking yourself these questions, you
can see if you need to change your driving habits. Such change might help you
avoid a serious collision later on.
Defensive driving begins before you start the vehicle. Always adjust your seat,
mirrors, and safety belt before starting your car. You may have an accident if
you try to adjust them while driving. Before you fasten your seat belt, adjust
your seat so that you are high enough to see the road. If you are still too low,
you should use a seat cushion. Adjust your rear and side mirrors before you
start driving.
AVOID ASSUMPTIONS
Never assume that you know what another driver is going to do. Always expect
the unexpected. Imagine that you want to make a turn and you see an
oncoming car.
Just because a driver's turn signal is on does not mean he is going to turn.
Always drive as if the other driver cannot see you.
KEEP A BUFFER ZONE
Keep plenty of distance between you and the driver ahead, a "buffer zone". In
fact, always do your best to keep a buffer zone all around your vehicle - front,
back and sides. It is best to keep at least a "3 second gap" between you and all
other vehicles.
Keeping distance between you and other vehicles, a buffer zone can protect you
from many accidents. Vehicles generate tremendous energy at high traffic
speeds. When you have to react to an emergency, it is not easy to reverse that
energy. What you need is time. Following at an appropriate distance between
you and the vehicle in front of you provides a buffer zone that will help to give
you that time.

Although the 3-second rule is normally a safe following distance, some road
variables often require the driver to increase following distance to a "4 second
gap" or more. Some of them include:
1. When your vision of the road is blocked
2. When driving at high speeds
3. In bad weather conditions
4. When road conditions are bad
One of the most important situations when you should increase your gap is
when you are being tailgated. When a tailgater crowds you, allow extra room
between your car and the car ahead. That way, if you need to slow down, you
can do so gradually. You do not want to have to brake suddenly when you are
too close to the car in front; the result could be that your car would get
smashed in the rear by the tailgater. To avoid being rear-ended, keep your
brake pedal depressed when stopping.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUES
Be alert and don't assume that you know what other drivers will do. It's
important to always keep your eyes moving. Don't become fixated on one single
object. Something else could be threatening danger, a danger you cannot see.
Focusing on the car in front of you, a pedestrian walking by or even a traffic
signal are all fixations that can kill.
ESCAPE TECHNIQUES
When you least expect an accident to happen, is when it usually will. To avoid
possible danger, always look for a way out. Predetermine what you will do if a
car in front of you slams on their brakes. Make sure you always have room to
maneuver and give yourself a place to escape. Stay alert to potential problems
and keep in mind where you are in traffic and what it would take to slow, turn,
or even stop.
DEFENSIVE DRIVING
Emphasis is on avoidance and prevention of collisions, by being alert to possible
problems. Scanning traffic patterns for problems; road and weather conditions;
visibility (day vs. night, speed reducing peripheral vision, fog, etc.): danger
areas (i.e. intersections); speed and stopping distances, reaction times, etc.;
vehicle condition and maintenance (tires, brakes, fluid levels, lights, etc.).
DRIVER DISTRACTIONS
There are many factors that can distract a driver on a road.
Identifying distractions and not allowing them to affect a
driver are vital to accident prevention. A driver should
always be aware of road hazards and road conditions.
There are numerous locations in particular that you should
watch for trouble, here are just a couple:
School zones
Construction zones
Animal crossings
Pedestrian crossing
Intersections
At times, you will need to look
away from the road ahead, pick
a safe time to look away and
then return as soon
as possible. Distractions must
be kept at a
minimum with the driver
focused at all times.
ROAD CONDITIONS
Soft Shoulders
If the edge of the road, known
as the shoulder, has
loose dirt or other soft material,
it is known as a soft
shoulder and is potentially
dangerous.. The
surface may appear firm; but in
reality, it can cause
the vehicle to swerve out of control as the tires sink into the roadway. Be alert
and use caution when traveling.
Drop-Offs
Drop-offs can occur when water, wind, or construction erodes the shoulder
areas. If your wheels leave the pavement and hit either a soft shoulder or a
drop-off, DO NOT APPLY YOUR BRAKES. Slow down by taking your foot off the
accelerator, and steer straight ahead. When the vehicle has slowed
significantly, return to the pavement by turning sharply to the left when it is
safe to do so.
Irregular Pavement
Sometimes pavement isn't in pristine condition and special attention is needed.
Be aware of loose gravel, potholes, narrow roads and dips. All of these make
driving conditions more difficult to navigate. Treat irregular pavement like you
would snow or ice because it is just as dangerous.
TYPES OF COLLISIONS
Rear-end collisions are most common. If aware (screech of tires, rear-view,
horn) apply brakes and brace yourself, plan to steer/avoid other traffic.
Fixed-object - less common, but very dangerous. The most significant cause of
fatalities, serious injuries, and property damage is the "two car crash".
Try to avoid frontal crashes ("head-on"). These are most often fatal. Due to the
physics involved in a sudden stop, the car could be sheared in two, or wrapped
around the object. Cars involved stop almost instantly, but the occupants are
thrown forward at the speed they were going at collision, either into or through
the windshield, or into the dashboard. It is quite common that one or both
vehicles in a head-on collision will go into an uncontrolled spin and their
occupants be thrown out of the vehicle.
Possible results:
Run over by another vehicle.
Thrown into a curbing or other fixed object.
Having own vehicle roll over or run over them.
One third of all traffic collisions happen at intersections, and about 40% of all
urban collisions occur there. Unless prohibited, there are only four maneuvers
that a driver may do at an intersection: Right; Left; U-turn; continue straight
through.
There are four general rules for intersection safety:
1.
Know
your
route,
plan
ahead.
2.
Slow
for
intersections
and
expect
the
unexpected.
3.
Show
your
intention
by
position
and
signal.
4. Go with care.
COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Let other drivers know what you plan to do. By following the suggestions
below, you may be able to avoid a collision. Keep Your Car Where It Can Be
Seen!
Most drivers hit the brakes first to avoid a collision. Sometimes this locks the
wheels (unless you have antilock brakes). The car begins skidding, making
things worse.
To stop quickly, apply firm, steady pressure on the brake. If the car
begins to skid, release the brake. Step on the brake again, using firm,
steady
pressure.
Repeat
this
process
until
the
car
stops.
NOTE-Antilock brakes must not be pumped.
If you don't have time to stop or turn. Run off the road if you have to and
if there is room. Running off the road is usually better than hitting
another car. Try not to brake as you turn.
Sometimes you can speed up to avoid a collision. This may work if a car
is going to hit you on the side or rear.
When you follow too closely and another driver "cuts" in front of you, the
normal reaction is to slam on your brakes and swerve out of the way. Swerving
out of the way most often results in cutting someone else off or possibly driving
off the roadway. It might also result in the car behind you crashing into you or
other cars around you.
If another driver "cuts" in front of you, it would be better if you just take your
foot off the gas. This will give you space between your car and the other driver
without swerving into another lane. Don't overreact if you are cut off. Plan your
emergency escape route before an emergency happens.
IF YOU CAN'T AVOID A COLLISION, PROTECT YOURSELF AS WELL AS YOU CAN
If you are going to be hit from the rear:
Be ready to brake so that you won't be pushed into another car.
If you are going to be hit from the side:
Brace yourself with the steering wheel. Perhaps you can keep yourself
from being thrown against the side of the car.
If you are going to be hit from the front:
Use your arms and hands to protect your face if you are wearing a
shoulder strap.
If you are not using a shoulder strap, throw yourself across the seat so
that you don't hit the steering column or the windshield.
16000. Accident Report
Accident Report
16000. (a) (a) The driver of ( )1 a motor vehicle who is in any manner involved in an accident originating from the operation of ( )2
the motor vehicle on ( )3 a street or highway , or ( )3 is involved in a reportable off-highway accident , as defined in ( )4 Section
16000.1, that has resulted in damage to the property of any one person in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) , or in bodily
injury, or in the death of any person shall report the accident, within 10 days after the accident, ( )5 either personally or through an
insurance agent, broker, or legal representative, on a form approved by the department , to the office of the department at Sacramento,
subject to ( )6 this chapter. The driver shall identify on the form, by name and current residence address, if available, any person
involved in the accident complaining of bodily injury.
(b) A report is not required ( )7 under subdivision (a) if the motor vehicle involved in the accident was owned or leased by, or under
the direction of, the United States, this state, another state, or a local agency.
(c) If none of the parties involved in an accident has reported the accident to the department under this section within one year
following the date of the accident, the department is not required to file a report on the accident and the driver's license suspension
requirements of Section 16004 or 16070 do not apply.
If you are involved in an accident, anywhere in the state, on public or private land,
you must stop, render aid, and identify yourself. If you don't stop, you may be
convicted of "hit and run" and could be severely punished. If anyone is hurt, call
the police or CHP. Dial 9-1-1. In cities or towns, report to the local police or dial 91-1. If you are involved in a minor traffic collision (no one is injured or killed),
move your vehicle out of the traffic lane. Show your driver license, registration
card, evidence of financial responsibility, and current address to the other driver
or persons involved, or to any peace officer.
If someone is injured and there isnt a phone nearby, send someone for help. DO
NOT attempt to move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger of
being further injured (such as laying in the way of oncoming traffic). It is better to
alert oncoming vehicles of the potential hazard. In the mean time, you can assist
the situation by obtaining names and addresses of any witnesses. When the officer
arrives you should give all the accurate facts and offer any additional assistance
with the situation.
20001. Duty to Stop at Scene of Accident
Duty to Stop at Scene of Accident

20001. (a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to any person, other than himself or herself, or in the
death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident and shall fulfill the requirements of Sections
20003 and 20004.
(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), any person who violates subdivision (a) shall be punished by imprisonment in the state
prison, or in a county jail for not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) nor more than ten
thousand dollars ($10,000), or by both that imprisonment and fine .
(2) If the accident described in subdivision (a) results in death or permanent, serious injury, any person who violates subdivision (a)
shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for two, three, or four years, or in a county jail for not less than 90 days nor
more than one year, or by a fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) nor more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or by
both that imprisonment and fine. However, the court, in the interests of justice and for reasons stated in the record, may reduce or
eliminate the minimum imprisonment required by this paragraph.
(3) In imposing the minimum fine required by this subdivision, the court shall take into consideration the defendant's ability to pay
the fine and, in the interests of justice and for reasons stated in the record, may reduce the amount of that minimum fine to less than
the amount otherwise required by this subdivision.

(c) A person who flees the scene of the crime after committing a violation of Section 191.5 of, paragraph (1) or (3) of subdivision (c)
of Section 192 of, or subdivision (a) or (c) of Section 192.5 of, the Penal Code, upon conviction of any of those sections, in addition
and consecutive to the punishment prescribed, shall be punished by an additional term of imprisonment of five years in the state
prison. This additional term shall not be imposed unless the allegation is charged in the accusatory pleading and admitted by the
defendant or found to be true by the trier of fact. The court shall not strike a finding that brings a person within the provisions of this
subdivision or an allegation made pursuant to this subdivision.
(d) As used in this section, "permanent, serious injury" means the loss or permanent impairment of function of any bodily member or
organ.
Amended Sec. 1, Ch. 854, Stats. 1999. Effective October 1, 1999.
If no one is present, you must leave a note with name, address, license number,
owner, how collision occurred, and notify police as soon as possible. Failure to
comply is a misdemeanor (Felony if injury/death occurs.)
20013. Reports as Evidence
Reports as Evidence: 20013. No such accident report shall be used as evidence in any trial, civil or criminal, arising out of an
accident, except that the department shall furnish upon demand of any person who has, or claims to have, made such a report or upon
demand of any court, a certificate showing that a specified accident report has or has not been made to the department solely to prove
a compliance or failure to comply with the requirement that such a report be made to the department. Amended Ch. 1996, Stats.
1959. Effective September 18, 1959.
Motorists will be required to provide evidence of insurance to the DMV at the time
that they register their vehicles. Evidence must be on a DMV form that includes:
Name and address of the applicant
(owner).
Year, make, model and identification
number of the vehicle.
Name, identification number and address
of the insurer.
Effective and expiration dates of the
policy.
Statement from the insurance company
that the policy meets the minimum liability
requirement.
20002. Permissible Action: Duty Where Property

Damaged
Permissible Action: Duty Where Property Damaged

20002. (a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting only in damage to any property, including vehicles, shall
immediately stop the vehicle at the nearest location that will not impede traffic or otherwise jeopardize the safety of other motorists.
Moving the vehicle in accordance with this subdivision does not affect the question of fault. The driver shall also immediately do
either of the following:
(1) Locate and notify the owner or person in charge of that property of the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle
involved and, upon locating the driver of any other vehicle involved or the owner or person in charge of any damaged property, upon
being requested, present his or her driver's license, and vehicle registration, to the other driver, property owner, or person in charge of
that property. The information presented shall include the current residence address of the driver and of the registered owner. If the
registered owner of an involved vehicle is present at the scene, he or she shall also, upon request, present his or her driver's license
information, if available, or other valid identification to the other involved parties.
(2) Leave in a conspicuous place on the vehicle or other property damaged a written notice giving the name and address of the driver
and of the owner of the vehicle involved and a statement of the circumstances thereof and shall without unnecessary delay notify the
police department of the city wherein the collision occurred or, if the collision occurred in unincorporated territory, the local
headquarters of the Department of the California Highway Patrol.
(b) Any person who parks a vehicle which, prior to the vehicle again being driven, becomes a runaway vehicle and is involved in an
accident resulting in damage to any property, attended or unattended, shall comply with the requirements of this section relating to
notification and reporting and shall, upon conviction thereof, be liable to the penalties of this section for failure to comply with the
requirements.
(c) Any person failing to comply with all the requirements of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof,
shall be punished by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding six months, or by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars
($1,000), or by both that imprisonment and fine.
Motorists must also provide evidence (proof) of insurance to a peace officer when
stopped for a suspected vehicle code violation (except parking). Acceptable
evidence is the name of the insurer and the number of the policy. Evidence must
be in writing and can be established by noting the required information on the
vehicle registration card.
20008. Duty to Report Accidents
Duty to Report Accidents

20008. (a) The driver of a vehicle, other than a common carrier vehicle, involved in any accident resulting in injuries to or death of
any person shall within 24 hours after the accident make or cause to be made a written report of the accident to the Department of the
California Highway Patrol or, if the accident occurred within a city, to either the Department of the California Highway Patrol or the
police department of the city in which the accident occurred. If the agency which receives the report is not responsible for
investigating the accident, it shall immediately forward the report to the law enforcement agency which is responsible for
investigating the accident.
On or before the fifth day of each month, every police department which received a report during the previous calendar month of an
accident which it is responsible for investigating shall forward the report or a copy thereof to the main office of the Department of
the California Highway Patrol at Sacramento.
(b) The owner or driver of a common carrier vehicle involved in any such accident shall make a like report to the Department of
California Highway Patrol on or before the 10th day of the month following the accident.
Amended Ch. 224, Stats. 1970. Effective November 23, 1970.
Drivers should carry proof of insurance in their cars. They should write the name
of the insurer and the number of the policy on the vehicle registration card and
also keep in the car any insurance identification card provided by their insurance
company. Penalties for motorists convicted of not having automobile insurance are
severe:
Fines for a first offense range from $500 to $1000, not including penalty
assessments.
Fines for subsequent convictions range from $1000 to $2000.
A court may impound the uninsured vehicle.
Providing false evidence of insurance is a misdemeanor.
If a motorist who has insurance is cited for failure to provide proper evidence to a
law enforcement officer, the violation can be corrected by providing appropriate
proof to the court clerk, along with payment of $10.
20014. Use of Reports
Use of Reports
20014. All required accident reports and supplemental reports and all reports made to the Department of the California Highway
Patrol by any peace officer, member of the Department of the California Highway Patrol, or other employee of the Department of
Motor Vehicles and the Department of the California Highway Patrol, shall be immediately available for the confidential use of any
division in the department needing the same, for confidential use of the Department of Transportation, and, with respect to accidents
occurring on highways other than state highways, for the confidential use of the local authority having jurisdiction over the highway.
Amended Ch. 545, Stats. 1974. Effective January 1, 1975
NEW
LAW
SINCE
2005
CVC
section
4000.38
Financial
responsibility
Effective January 2006, the DMV no longer has the choice of canceling the
registration of any vehicle when it is determined that the vehicle is not covered by
a valid form of financial responsibility, but instead the DMV is mandated to cancel
the registration by law. Additionally, the DMV may charge a reinstatement fee to
cover the cost of reinstating the registration after cancellation.
20015. Counter Reports: No Determination of Fault
Counter Reports: No Determination of Fault

20015. (a) No traffic or police officer shall include in any counter report of a property-damage accident, as defined in this section,
any determination by the peace officer of fault of the reporting person, including, but not limited to, inattentiveness. This section
does not apply to a determination which is the result of an examination of the physical evidence of the accident at the site of the
accident by the traffic or police officer or the result of an express, knowing admission of the reporting person if the basis for the
determination is also included in the report.
(b) As used in this section, "counter report of a property-damage accident" means any report of an accident involving one or more
vehicles which meets the following criteria:
(1) The accident reported caused damage to property, but did not cause personal injury to or the death of any person.
(2) The report is prepared at an office of the California Highway Patrol or local law enforcement agency.
(3) The report is written or recorded by, or with the assistance of, a peace officer.
Added Ch. 861, Stats. 1984. Effective January 1, 1985.
HOW MUCH INSURANCE MUST YOU CARRY?

State law says you must be financially responsible for your actions whenever you
drive and for all motor vehicles you own. It is illegal to drive without being
financially responsible. Most drivers choose to have an automobile liability
insurance policy as proof of financial responsibility. If you have a collision not
covered by your insurance, your license will be suspended. If the driver is not
identified, the owner of the motor vehicle involved will have his or her license
suspended.
The minimum amount your insurance must cover per accident is:
$15,000 for a single death or injury.
$30,000 for death or injury to more than one person.
$5,000 for property damage.
16056. Requirements of Policy or Bond
Requirements of Policy or Bond

16056. (a) No policy or bond shall be effective under Section 16054 unless issued by an insurance company or surety company
admitted to do business in this state by the Insurance Commissioner, except as provided in subdivision (b) of this section, nor unless
the policy or bond is subject, if the accident has resulted in bodily injury or death, to a limit, exclusive of interest and costs, of not
less than fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) because of bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident and, subject to that
limit for one person, to a limit of not less than thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) because of bodily injury to or death of two or more
persons in any one accident, and, if the accident has resulted in injury to, or destruction of property, to a limit of not less than five
thousand dollars ($5,000) because of injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.
(b) No policy or bond shall be effective under Section 16054 with respect to any vehicle which was not registered in this state or was
a vehicle which was registered elsewhere than in this state at the effective date of the policy or bond or the most recent renewal
thereof, unless the insurance company or surety company issuing the policy or bond is admitted to do business in this state, or if the
company is not admitted to do business in this state, unless it executes a power of attorney authorizing the department to accept
service in its behalf of notice or process in any action upon the policy or bond arising out of an accident mentioned in subdivision
(a).
(c) Any nonresident driver whose driving privilege has been suspended or revoked based upon an action that requires proof of
financial responsibility may, in lieu of providing a certificate of insurance from a company admitted to do business in California,
provide a written certificate of proof of financial responsibility that is satisfactory to the department, covers the operation of a vehicle
in this state, meets the liability requirements of this section, and is from a company that is admitted to do business in that persons
state of residence.
If you are visiting California, or have just moved here, you should be aware that
many out-of-state insurance companies are not authorized to do business in
California. Before you drive here you should ask your insurance company if you are
covered in case of a collision. Should you become involved in a collision in
California, all three of the following conditions must be met to avoid suspension of
your driving privilege:
1. Your liability policy must provide bodily injury and property damage coverage
which equals or exceeds the limits stated above;
2. Your insurance company must file a power of attorney, allowing the DMV to act
as its agent for legal service in California; and
3. You must have insured the vehicle before you came to California.
16020. Evidence of Financial Responsibility
Evidence of Financial Responsibility

16020. (a) Every driver and every owner of a motor vehicle shall at all times be able to establish financial responsibility pursuant to
Section 16021, and shall at all times carry in the vehicle evidence of the form of financial responsibility in effect for the vehicle.
(b) Evidence of financial responsibility means any of the following:
(1) A form issued by an insurance company or charitable risk pool, as specified by the department pursuant to Section 4000.37.
(2) If the owner is a self-insurer, as provided in Section 16052 or a depositor, as provided in Section 16054.2, the certificate of selfinsurance or the assignment of deposit letter issued by the department.
(3) An insurance covering note or binder pursuant to Section 382 or 382.5 of the Insurance Code.
(4) A showing that the vehicle is owned or leased by, or under the direction of, the United States or any public entity, as defined in
Section 811.2 of the Government Code.
(c) For purposes of this section, evidence of financial responsibility also may be obtained by a law enforcement officer from an
electronic reporting system when that system becomes available for use by law enforcement officers.
(d) For purposes of this section, evidence of financial responsibility also includes any of the following:
(1) The name of the insurance company and the number of an insurance policy or surety bond that was in effect at the time of the
accident or at the time that evidence of financial responsibility is required to be provided pursuant to Section 16028, if that
information is contained in the vehicle registration records of the department.
(2) The identifying motor carrier of property permit number issued by the Department of the California Highway Patrol to the motor
carrier of property as defined in Section 34601, and displayed on the motor vehicle in the manner specified by the Department of the
California Highway Patrol.
(3) The identifying number issued to the household goods carrier, passenger stage carrier, or transportation charter party carrier by
the Public Utilities Commission and displayed on the motor vehicle in the manner specified by the commission.
(4) The identifying number issued by the Interstate Commerce Commission or its successor federal agency, if proof of financial
responsibility must be presented to the issuing agency as part of the identification number issuance process, and displayed on the
motor vehicle in the manner specified by the issuing agency.
(e) Evidence of financial responsibility does not include any of the identification numbers in paragraph (1), (2), (3), or (4) of
subdivision (d) if the carrier is currently suspended by the issuing agency for lack or lapse of insurance or other form of financial
responsibility.
Amended and repealed Sec. 4, Ch. 1126, Stats. 1996. Effective January 1, 1997. Repeal operative January 1, 2000, or upon the date
determined by the director pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 1680, whichever is later.
Many lawsuits are settled for much more money than the minimum amounts set by
the Financial Responsibility Law. You may have to pay the extra money if your
insurance doesn't pay it all.
Since 1915, when California first began to issue licenses, driving has been held to
be a privilege granted and revocable by the state. DMV has been granted the
authority to deal with these procedures by the legislature.
Division 6, CVC sections 12500 - 12804, (Requirements for licensing). Stated
briefly, it is unlawful to drive on any public roads or property unless licensed, and
the license must be correct for the class of vehicle driven (certain exemptions
apply).
You
must
apply
upon
entry
into
California
as
resident.
You
have
10
days
to
submit
change
of
address.
You must now provide your Social Security number when applying for or
renewing a license or registration.
20012. Reports Confidential: Exceptions
Reports Confidential: Exceptions

20012. All required accident reports, and supplemental reports, shall be without prejudice to the individual so reporting and shall be
for the confidential use of the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of the California Highway Patrol, except that the
Department of the California Highway Patrol or the law enforcement agency to whom the accident was reported shall disclose the
entire contents of the reports, including, but not limited to, the names and addresses of persons involved or injured in, or witnesses
to, an accident, the registration numbers and descriptions of vehicles involved, the date, time and location of an accident, all
diagrams, statements of the drivers involved or occupants injured in the accident and the statements of all witnesses, to any person
who may have a proper interest therein, including, but not limited to, the driver or drivers involved, or the guardian or conservator
thereof, the parent of a minor driver, the authorized representative of a driver, or to any named person injured therein, the owners of
vehicles or property damaged thereby, persons who may incur civil liability, including liability based upon a breach of warranty
arising out of the accident, and any attorney who declares under penalty of perjury that he or she represents any of the above persons.
A request for a copy of an accident report shall be accompanied by payment of a fee, provided such fee shall not exceed the actual
cost of providing the copy.
NOTE: Under the Safe Streets Act of 1994, any driver who is unlicensed or has
had
their privilege suspended or revoked may have their vehicle impounded and sold.
If a license is suspended or revoked, it must be returned to DMV within 15 days of
the effective date. A fee will be charged if it is not returned.
CLASSES
The following are the types of licenses available in California:
A - Any vehicle (motorcycle must have M endorsement).
B - Bus, farm labor vehicle, single vehicles w/ 3+ axles.
C - Any 2 axle vehicle or 3 axle house car, any such vehicle towing another
weighing less than 6000 lbs., except class B or M vehicles.
M - 2 wheeled motorcycle only.
LICENSE REFUSAL AND RESTRICTION
Remember, DRIVING IS A PRIVILEGE, NOT A RIGHT! It is important to be aware of
reasons why you would get your license restricted:
1. A person with a history of alcohol and/or drug abuse can be refused a
license. A person with a substance abuse problem is a hazard to himself and
others. He or she should not be permitted to drive a motor vehicle. If the
DMV becomes aware of such a problem, it will legally refuse to issue a
driver's license.
2. Any person who has used his or her license illegally could have it revoked
and be denied another license.
3. Lying on a driver's license application is grounds for refusal to issue a
license.
4. Failure to demonstrate a minimal level of driving skill is grounds for refusal.
5. The DMV has a legal right to refuse to grant a license to people whose
medical condition makes them a driving hazard.
VIOLATION OF LICENSE RESTRICTION
At any time the DMV has the right to restrict your license. If you fail to comply
with your driving restriction, several penalties may be placed on you.

Your vehicle may be impounded and subjected to storage fees or worse
sold.
You may be fined.
You may even go to jail.
You may be penalized with one or all of the above penalties.
14250. Probation
Probation
14250. Whenever by any provision of this code the department has discretionary authority to suspend or revoke the privilege of a
person to operate a motor vehicle, the department may in lieu of suspension or revocation place the person on probation, the terms of
which may include a suspension as a condition of probation, issuing a probationary license with such reasonable terms and
conditions as shall be deemed by the department to be appropriate.
LICENSING CONTROL MEASURES
Traffic violations can damage your driving record. The DMV has a point system to
gauge the quality of your driving; and the more points you accumulate, the more
negligent you are considered to be. Both the DMV and your insurance company use
the point system to determine penalties.
Most traffic violations and minor accidents will count ONE point against a driver's
license. TWO points are assigned for the following:
Reckless driving
Vehicular manslaughter
Driving over 100 miles per hour
Illegal transport of explosives
Causing injury or death while avoiding a law enforcement officer
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Hitting an unattended vehicle without notifying the owner
Driving on the wrong side of a divided highway
Causing property damage, injury, or death and then fleeing the scene
without reporting to traffic law enforcement authorities
Speed contests (drag racing) on public streets
The DMV considers drivers negligent operators of a motor vehicle and subject to
license suspension or revocation if they accumulate:
4 points in a 12-month period
6 or more points in a 24-month period
8 or more points in a 36-month period
License Penalties for Negligent Driving The Department of Motor
Vehicles developed a traffic control system called, the Negligent
Operator Treatment System (NOTS). Since 1915, when California first began to
issue driver's licenses, the DMV has had some responsibility for highway safety
through its licensing authority. Through the years, this obligation has been reemphasized many times in legislative actions. The enforcement procedures given
to the DMV include suspension, revocation, and cancellation of a driver's license.
16070. Suspension of Driving Privilege
Suspension of Driving Privilege

16070. (a) Whenever a driver involved in an accident described in Section 16000 fails to provide evidence of financial responsibility,
as required by Section 16020, at the time of the accident, the department shall, pursuant to subdivision (b), suspend the privilege of
the driver or owner to drive a motor vehicle, including the driving privilege of a nonresident in this state.
(b) Whenever the department receives an accident report pursuant to this article that alleges that any of the drivers involved in the
accident was not in compliance with Section 16020 at the time of the accident, the department shall immediately mail to that driver a
notice of intent to suspend the driving privilege of that driver. The department shall suspend the driving privilege 30 days after
mailing the notice, unless the driver has, prior to that date, established evidence of financial responsibility at the time of the accident,
as specified in Section 16021, with the department. The suspension notice shall notify the driver of the action taken and the right to a
hearing under Section 16075.
SUSPENSION
Suspension of a driver's license is an action taken by the DMV that suspends a
driving privilege for a specified period of time. A driver's license still exists, but a
person cannot use it to drive until the suspension has been removed.
13102.
Suspension
16004.
Mandatory
Suspension
of
License
16072.
Period
of
Suspension:
Restriction
Alternative
Suspension
13102. When used in reference to a driver's license, "suspension" means that the person's privilege to drive a motor vehicle is
temporarily withdrawn. The department may, before terminating any suspension based upon a physical or mental condition of the
licensee, require such examination of the licensee as deemed appropriate in relation to evidence of any condition which may affect
the ability of the licensee to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Mandatory Suspension of License
16004. (a) The department shall suspend the driving privilege of any person who fails, refuses, or neglects to make a report of an
accident as required in this chapter.
(b) A suspension taken under this section shall remain in effect until terminated by receipt of the report of the accident or upon
receipt of evidence that financial responsibility as provided in Section 16021 is in effect.
(c) The driving privilege shall not be suspended under this section, and, if a suspension has been imposed and is in effect under this
section, that suspension shall be terminated, if the driving privilege is suspended under Section 16370 or 16381 as the result of a
judgment arising out of the same accident for which the report of the accident is required by this section. The department may
suspend or reimpose the suspension of the driving privilege of a person under this section if the suspension under Section 16370 or
16381 is later set aside for a reason other than that the person has satisfied the judgment in full or to the extent provided in Chapter 2
(commencing with Section 16250) and has given proof of financial responsibility as provided in Chapter 3 (commencing with
Section 16430).
Amended Ch. 314, Stats. 1990. Effective July 17, 1990.
Period of Suspension: Restriction Alternative

16072. (a) The suspension of the driving privilege of a person as provided in Section 16070 shall not be terminated until one year has
elapsed from the date of actual commencement of the suspension and until the person files proof of financial responsibility as
provided in Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 16430), except that the suspension shall be reinstated if the person fails to maintain
proof of financial responsibility for three years. However, in lieu of suspending a person's driving privilege pursuant to this section,
the department may, upon application, if the person files and thereafter maintains proof of financial responsibility as provided in this
section and pays a penalty fee to the department of two hundred fifty dollars ($250), restrict the person's driving privilege to any of
the following situations:
(1) Necessary travel to and from that person's place of employment.
(2) Driving that is required in the person's course of employment, when driving a motor vehicle is necessary in order to perform the
duties of the person's primary employment.
(3) Necessary travel to transport a minor dependent in that person's immediate family to and from an institute of primary or
secondary education, if the chief administrative officer or principal of the educational institution certifies in writing to the department
that the minor dependent is enrolled in the educational institution and no form of public transportation or schoolbus is available
between the applicant's place of residence and the educational institution.
The restriction shall remain in effect for the period of suspension required by this section, so long as proof of financial responsibility
is maintained.
(b) If a suspension has been imposed under Section 16070 and one year has elapsed from the date the suspension actually
commenced, that suspension shall be terminated if the driving privilege is suspended under Section 16370 or 16381 as the result of a
judgment arising out of the accident for which proof of financial responsibility was required to be established. The department may
reimpose the suspension of the driving privilege of a person under Section 16070 if the suspension under Section 16370 or 16381 is
later set aside for a reason other than that the person has satisfied the judgment in full or to the extent provided in Chapter 2
(commencing with Section 16250) and has given proof of ability to respond in damages as provided in Chapter 3 (commencing with
Section 16430).
(c) Notwithstanding Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 42200) of Division 18, all revenues derived from the penalty fees provided
in subdivision (a) shall, after deduction by the department of the costs incurred by the department in the administering of this section,
be deposited in the Financial Responsibility Penalty Account in the General Fund. The balance in this fund on July 1, which is not
subject to appropriation as provided in Section 12980 of the Insurance Code, shall revert to the General Fund.
REVOCATION
The revocation of a license is a permanent removal of a driver's license. The
driver's license will be physically taken from a person and destroyed. It may be
reinstated only after the driver requests reinstatement and has satisfied the DMV
that whatever events causing the revocation have been corrected. If the DMV
allows the person to drive again, he or she must repeat the original process of
getting a driver's license including application, testing, and fees.
13101. Revocation
Revocation
13101. When used in reference to a driver's license, "revocation" means that the person's privilege to drive a motor vehicle is
terminated and a new driver's license may be obtained after the period of revocation.
CANCELLATION
Cancellation of a license occurs when, for any reason, a driver voluntarily elects to
surrender his or her license to the DMV. Protecting one's driving record is an act of
intelligence and responsibility. Much of what drivers do involves common sense
and having a safe driving attitude. They must have good driving skills plus a solid
knowledge of the traffic laws of the state in which they are driving. With these
things in place, any person of driving age can enjoy the privilege of driving for
many years of safe transportation.
NEGLIGENT DRIVING AND LOSS OF LICENSE FOR DRIVERS OVER 18 YEARS OF AGE
Your license can be taken away if you break the law or become an unsafe driver.
When you are stopped by a police officer and cited for a traffic law violation, you
sign a promise to appear in traffic court. There you may plead guilty or not guilty,
or you may forfeit (pay) bail. Paying bail is the same as a guilty plea. If you ignore
the traffic ticket and don't keep your promise to appear in court, the failure to
appear (FTA) goes on your driver record. If you fail to pay a fine (FTP), the court
will notify DMV and this will also show on your driver record. Even one FTA or FTP
will cause the department to suspend your license. Ending the suspension will cost
you a reinstatement fee of $55.
Each time you are convicted of a moving traffic law violation, the court notifies the
DMV. A record of this conviction is placed in your driver license file.
SUSPENSION OF A LICENSE BY A JUDGE
A judge may suspend the license of anyone convicted of breaking speed laws or
reckless driving for up to 30 days on the first conviction and up to 60 days on the
second conviction, and up to six months on a third or later conviction. Suspension
may result from conviction of:
Driving under influence of liquor or drugs
Hit-and-run
Reckless driving causing bodily injury
Failure to stop at railway crossing. Regardless of point count, many serious
offenses in which a vehicle is used are punishable by heavy penalties such
as fines and/or imprisonment. (Felony drunk driving, grand theft,
manslaughter and DUI of narcotics or other dangerous drugs, injury/death
caused while evading a peace officer).
NEW LAWS FOR 2004
Driver Education and Training- Amendment to CVC 12509
The minimum age for issuance of an instruction permit is 15 years, 6 months. The
Department, for good cause, may issue an instruction permit to any physically and
mentally qualified person who meets the following requirements and who applies
to the Department for an instruction permit: Is age 15 years and 6 months, or over
and has successfully completed an approved course in automobile driver education
and is taking driver training or is enrolled and participating in an integrated driver
education program.
SB 1055- DMV Fee Increases
Increases several fees and penalties paid to the DMV. The fees were increased to
stave off a shortfall in the Motor Vehicle Account (MVA). The MVA is largely funded
from constitutionally protected revenue derived from motorist fees and is used to
support the California Highway Patrol and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Fee
increases include:
Old
&nbps;
New Fee
Fee
Driver's License (5year)
$24
$27
Duplicate license
$19
$21
Non-operation fee
$15
$17
Vehicle registration
$28
$31
$9
$10
Salvage Certificate
$15
$17
Identification Card
$20
$27 (*except free for

seniors)
CHP-Fees-(paid
registration
w/
NEW LAWS SINCE 2007

CVC Section 15300 - Commercial Drivers
States that a driver of a commercial vehicle may not operate a commercial motor
vehicle for one year for the first conviction of specified offences, including DUI, hit
and run or vehicular manslaughter, while driving any vehicle, not just a
commercial vehicle. CVC 15302 provides for permanent disqualification of a
commercial driver for two or more convictions of specified offenses, while driving
any vehicle.
CVC Section 15215 - Commercial Drivers Conviction Reporting
Requires the DMV to report each conviction occurring within California of a person
holding a commercial driver's license from another state to the licensing authority
of the home state of the licensee.
NEW LAW SINCE 2009
Required Declaration on an Original or Renewal Application for a Driver License
Operative July 1, 2008 Adds Penal Code Sections 241.5 & 243.65 This new law
provides an increased penalty for assault and battery crimes committed against
highway workers engaged in the performance of his or her duties.
241.5. (a) When an assault is committed against a highway worker engaged in the
performance of his or her duties and the person committing the offense knows or
reasonably should know that the victim is a highway worker engaged in the
performance of his or her duties, the offense shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000) or by imprisonment in a county jail up to
one year or by both that fine and imprisonment. (b) As used in this section,
"highway worker" means an employee or contractor of the Department of
Transportation who does one or more of the following: (1) Performs maintenance,
repair, or construction of state highway infrastructures and associated rights-ofway in highway work zones. (2) Operates equipment on state highway
infrastructures and associated rights-of-way in highway work zones. (3) Performs
any related maintenance work, as required, on state highway infrastructures in
highway work zones. 243.65. (a) When a battery is committed against the person
of a highway worker engaged in the performance of his or her duties and the
person committing the offense knows or reasonably should know that the victim is
a highway worker engaged in the performance of his or her duties, the offense
shall be punished by a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by
imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and
imprisonment. (b) As used in this section, "highway worker" means an employee

or contractor of the Department of Transportation who does one or more of the
following: (1) Performs maintenance, repair, or construction of state highway
infrastructures and associated rights-of-way in highway work zones. (2) Operates
equipment on state highway infrastructures and associated rights-of-way in
highway work zones. (3) Performs any related maintenance work, as required, on
state highway infrastructures in highway work zones.
YOUR RECORD IS PUBLIC
Most information in your license file is open to the public. Law enforcement
agencies, insurance companies and others check hundreds of thousands of driver
records each year. Physical or mental condition of a driver are not public. Copies
are available on request from DMV for a fee, with a valid reason. Public records of
minor traffic convictions and accidents are kept for 3 years. (More serious
convictions are kept up to 10 years). Some laws affect availability of the public
record, and how and by whom it may be accessed. Your private record is only
available to the DMV, courts, and police.
"Rear -Ender" Case Study #2

"Lucky" Walter Crashalot is driving the new Dodge Dart he just won on "Press
Your Buck". He loves his new auto and in particular he loves his new sound
system. The only problem is that he can't figure out how to turn it on. Walter
quickly remembers that he brought his portable radio and headphones with him.
Should Walt put on the headphones while driving? Is it legal? Lucky for "Lucky" he
remembered that earphones are illegal for all autos, motorcycles, and bicycles.
The Volume level of radios may not be so loud as to interfere with normal driving
either. Certain high-noise vehicles and emergency vehicle drivers are exempted as
per the California Vehicle Code. Good for him for remembering!
But unfortunately, Walt was too involved with the smell of his new auto to notice
the car in front of him. Crashalot rear-ends the lawful driver in front of him and
causes some bent metal to both cars. "Lucky" Walter wasn't so lucky this time, but
what should he do? Should he leave his car and walk home or should he stick
around and exchange insurance information? What does he legally have to do?
Well, Walter must remain at the scene of the crash and exchange insurance
information. Of course, Walt should also determine if there were any injuries to
the parties involved.
Section 3 of 5
The above is a slogan that should ring home painfully true. Over 38% of the adult
traffic fatalities, and 60% of juvenile fatalities are DUI related! Your chances of a
collision double with one drink!!!
WHY IS DRINKING AND DRIVING SO DANGEROUS?
No one can drink more than one's limit and drive safely no matter how much driving
experience he or she has had. However, new drivers are affected even more than
experienced drivers because they have to think more about what they are doing.
Research has shown that the younger driver is affected more rapidly by alcohol. Even
one drink can affect a person's driving. Two drinks in an hour can make anyone an
unsafe driver. You lose your judgment when you drink or use drugs. It is often the
first thing about you that changes. Loss of judgment, or good sense, affects how you
react to sounds, what you see, and the speed of other vehicles around you.
Some myths about drinking alcohol say that taking cold showers, drinking black
coffee, or exercising will sober a person up. This is not true. Only time, body weight,
the number of drinks, and how much has been eaten, can affect how long it takes
anyone to "sober up." It takes about an hour for the body to get rid of each "drink." If
a person has had more than one drink an hour, one hour of "sobering up" time should
be allowed for each extra drink. The best solution? Always have a designated driver!
A designated driver is defined as someone who has volunteered not to drink and will
drive people home at the end of a social function. People can also get involved in the
Designated Driver Program. The Designated Driver Program is an anti-DUI effort that
works. The program encourages one individual to abstain from consuming alcoholic
beverages for an outing so that he or she can be responsible for transporting the
other members of the group safely.
To participate as a designated driver, an individual:
Should be at least 21 years of age and must possess a valid driver's license.
Must be part of a group of two or more persons and verbally identify himself or
herself as the designated driver to the server.
Must abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages for the duration of the
outing.
Must not be an otherwise impaired driver.
Must understand that management reserves the right to refuse service to
anyone at anytime.
The Highway Patrol lists the following deviations from normal driving in a manual,
The Drinking Driver. These are the signs they look out for in spotting a drunk driver.
1. Unreasonable speed (high).

2. Driving in spurts, slow, then fast, then slow, etc.
3. Frequent lane changing with excessive speed.
4. Improper passing with insufficient clearance, also taking too long or
swerving too
much in overtaking and passing; i.e. over control.
5. Overshooting or disregarding traffic control signals.
6. Approaching signals unreasonably fast or slow and stopping or attempting to
stop with uneven motion.
7. Failure to dim lights to oncoming traffic.
8. Jerky starting or stopping.
9. Driving unreasonably slowly.
10. Driving too close to shoulders or curbs or continually stradding the
centerline.
11. Driving with windows down in cold weather.
12. Driving or riding with head partly or completely out of the window
"The amount of alcohol present in your blood, as determined by analysis." In

California, It is illegal to drive with a BAC that is 0.08% or more. Meaning, you will be
considered drunk at this level, and it is "Prima Facie" evidence that you are guilty per
se. (That is, the level in itself is considered to establish the fact). Drivers under the
age of 21 years, if found to have a BAC of 0.01% or more, can be subject to a driver
license sanction. A BAC below legal limits does not mean that it is safe to drive.
Almost all drivers show the effects of alcohol at levels lower than the legal limit.
You can be convicted of DUI at even lower levels, depending on the circumstances. A
driver with a BAC of .10% (the old legal limit) your chances of being in an accident
are 8 times more, and with a BAC of .15%, your chances of an accident are 25 times
more likely!
Field Sobriety Test - conducted by officer at scene.

Breathalyzer - can also be conducted by officer at scene.
Chemical Test
Blood Test
12 ounces of Beer (5%)

4 ounces of Wine (12%)
1 1/2 ounces of hard liquor (40%/80 proof)

**ALL CONTAIN THE SAME AMOUNT OF ALCHOHOL, APPROXIMATLY 1 1/2 OUNCE!**
DRIVERS UNDER 21
It is against California law to purchase beer, wine, or hard liquor if you are under 21
years old. If you are under 21, the law is especially hard on you when you drink and
drive. If you are driving a vehicle that is registered in your name and you are
convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the court may take your
vehicle away for up to 30 days. You will have to pay for storing it. If you are under 21
years of age, there is now a zero tolerance law, which means if a driver's BAC is
0.01% or higher or the person refuses to take, or fail to complete, a PAS test or other
chemical test, DMV will suspend the person's driving privilege for one year.
Many teenagers have been killed or injured because they drove under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. Teenagers are more than twice as likely as adult drivers to be
involved in an alcohol-related fatal crash. If you are convicted of driving under the
influence of alcohol you will be punished by the courts. The first time you are
convicted, you may have to spend time in jail and pay a fine. Additionally, DMV must
revoke your driver license for one year or until you are 18, whichever is longer, and
until you show proof of insurance.
The law is very strict regarding alcohol in a vehicle. It is against the law to carry on
your person or in the car any alcoholic beverage unless you are accompanied by a
parent or legal guardian over the age of 21. The only exception is when transporting
alcoholic beverages as part of your job for an employer licensed under the Alcoholic
Beverage Control Act.
DRIVERS 21 AND OLDER
You must always drive attentively and carefully. You must not drive after you have
taken any drink or drug which changes how you drive, makes you less careful, or
slows down how you react.
If you are convicted of driving with alcohol or drugs in your body, the judge may give
you 96 hours to six months in jail. You will also have to pay $390 to $1,000 in fines
(penalty assessment extra), the first time you are convicted. In addition, you may
lose your license for up to six months, or the state may let you drive for a time, while
closely watching your driver record. If the vehicle is registered in your name when
you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs (DUI), the
court may take your vehicle away for up to 30 days. You will have to pay for storing it.
Prepared by DMV in cooperation with the CHP,

Office of Traffic Safety, Department of Alcohol and
Drug Programs, and Department of Justice.
There is no safe way to drive while under the influence. Even one drink can make you
an unsafe driver. Drinking affects your BLOOD ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION (BAC). It is
illegal to drive with a BAC of .08% (.04% if you drive commercial vehicles or .01% or
more if under 21). Even a BAC below .08% does not mean that it is safe or legal to
drive. The charts show the BAC zones for various numbers of drinks and time periods.
HOW TO USE THESE CHARTS: Find the chart that includes your weight. Look at the
total number of drinks you have had and compare that to the time shown. You can
quickly tell if you are at risk of being arrested.* If your BAC level is in the gray zone,
your chances of having a collision are 5 times higher than if you had no drinks, and 25
times higher if your BAC level falls into the black zone.
*VC 23152, VC 23153, VC 23136, VC 23140 DUI/Driving under the influence of alcohol
and/or drugs.
TECHNICAL NOTE: These charts are intended to be guides and are not legal evidence
of the actual blood alcohol concentration. Although it is possible for anyone to exceed
the designated limits, the charts have been constructed so that fewer than 5 persons
in 100 will exceed these limits when drinking the stated amounts on an empty
stomach. Actual values can vary by body type, sex, health status, and other factors.
BLOOD ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION CHARTS
It is important to remember that all medications, pre-scription and over-thecounter, are potentially dangerous. Over-the-counter medicines that you take for
headaches, colds, and allergies can make you drowsy and affect your driving ability.
Carefully read and follow the directions about dosage and side effects. Pay close
attention to warnings about continued dosage and who should and should not take
the medication. Under no circumstances should you mix medications unless
directed by your physician.
Never take medications prescribed for someone else.
Do not mix alcohol with your medications. This applies to both prescribed and overthe-counter medications.
If you must take medication before driving, find out the effects of the medication
from your physician or pharmacist. Remember even though you may feel fine, you
may not be totally free of the adverse effects that can affect your driving. It is your
responsibility to know the effects of the medications you take.
DRUGS:
There are several major classifications.
Stimulants --
includes
speed).
amphetamines
(`uppers',
Depressants --
includes barbiturates, (`downers').
Opiates --
includes narcotics, (Heroin, Codeine, etc.)
Hallucinogens
--
natural/artificial (LSD, peyote, etc.)
Legal (or illegal) drugs should never be used while driving, except by direction of a
competent physician. Under no circumstance should they ever be mixed with
alcohol. The synergistic (combined) effect can be much worse than either alone,
and greatly increases the risk of collisions, injury and death. (Legal drugs incl.
prescribed and over-the-counter, such as: antihistamines {colds, allergies};
tranquilizers; etc.)
DRUGS AND DRIVING
Much of what has been said about alcohol also applies to drugs (both legally
prescribed medicines and illegal drugs). The state's drunk driving law is also a drug
driving law since it refers to "driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs."
The law does not have to say which drugs are involved. Many medicines can affect
the way one drives. Alcohol can enhance some of the dangerous side effects of
many drugs, even those that are prescribed by your physician or purchased over
the counter. It is important that you check with your physician or pharmacist
before driving after taking any medication.
Almost any drug can affect a person's driving skill. This is true of prescription
drugs, drugs you can buy over the counter, or illegal drugs. Here are some facts:
Most drugs taken for headaches, colds, hay fever, allergy, or to calm nerves
can make a person drowsy and this can affect his or her driving.
Taking any drug can affect safe driving. Medicines taken together, or used
with alcohol can be dangerous. Drivers should ask their physician or
pharmacist about how any medicine may affect their driving.
Many drugs have unexpected effects when they are taken with alcohol. Drugs
and alcohol should never be used at the same time.
Pep pills, "uppers," and diet pills can make a driver more alert for a short
time. Later, however, they can cause a person to be nervous, dizzy, and not
able to concentrate.
They
can
also
affect
vision.
Make sure you read the label and know the effects of any drug you use. If it is a
common drug, read the label. Any drug that "may cause drowsiness or dizziness" is
one
you
should
not
take
before
driving.
Any drug (and the law does not distinguish between prescription, over-the-counter,
or illegal drugs) which impairs your driving is illegal. If an officer suspects that you
are under the influence of drugs, the officer can require that you take a blood or
urine test. Persons refusing these tests
If you are convicted of using alcohol or a controlled substance and you are
between the ages of 13 and 21, the court will tell DMV to suspend your
driving privilege for one year. If you don't have a driver license yet, the court
will tell DMV to make you wait a year longer before you can apply for a
license. You can also be required to go to a DUI program.
Any restriction, suspension or probation will continue past your 21st birthday for its
full term.
Other, stronger actions can be taken if your driving record justifies them.
Remember, when your driving privilege has been suspended or revoked, you may
not drive in California with any license or permit.
All D.U.I.'s bear a mandatory jail sentence.
Mandatory
fines
for
all
D.U.I.'s
$390.00
1,000.00.
Second or subsequent offense -- Judge may require verified attendance at an

approved alcohol/drug treatment program. Additional jail time for nonattendance.
Vehicles involved may be impounded for up to 30 days at owner's expense.
At all subsequent trials, all prior convictions count the same. That is, a prior
misdemeanor will count the same as a felony would. (Used in determining
minimum mandatory sentences).
If judge dismisses the D.U.I., he must read into the record his reason for
doing so which will remain part of his personal record.
In a misdemeanor offense, plea bargaining is still possible, but the fact that
alcohol was involved must be noted. In any subsequent cases against that
person, the conviction (i.e. reckless driving with alcohol) will count the same
as a prior D.U.I.
On a D.U.I. injury with 2 priors, in addition to the mandatory fine, 2 to 4
years penitentiary time and 3 year revocation of license; restitution must be
made to victim.
Ignition interlock devices on vehicles are now required if a person is
convicted of two DUI offenses within 10 years.
Personal effects of DUI - the above are legal penalties. Personal effects can be
many and harsh. They can include civil suits and costs leading to loss of assets; loss
of job; loss of self-respect & esteem of family, friends, the humiliation of jail, etc.
VEHICLE CODE - DUI (23152 VC - Misdemeanor drunk driving.)
Penalties First conviction, maximum sentence: (3 options available to Judge). County jail for
not less than 96 hours nor more than 6 months and a fine of not less than $390.00
nor more than $1000.00 plus court costs. Optional driver improvement or alcohol
education or treatment program.
Second conviction within ten years - County jail for not less than 90 days nor more
than 1 year and fine.
Third conviction within ten years - County jail for not less than 120 days nor more
than 1 year, and fine (as above).
Fourth and subsequent convictions within ten years - County jail or state prison for
not less than 180 days and not more than 1 year and fine (as above).
Infractions:
VC: 23221 - Drinking in a motor vehicle. No person shall drink any alcoholic
beverage while in a motor vehicle upon a highway.
VC: 23225 - Storage of opened container. It is unlawful to store any bottle, can or
other receptacle of an alcoholic beverage which has been opened, or a seal broken,
in any motor vehicle unless such container is stored in the trunk. A glove
compartment shall be deemed within the area occupied by the driver and
passengers. This does not apply to the living quarters of a camper or housecar.
HOW LONG WILL I BE SUSPENDED OR REVOKED?
If you did not take, or you failed to complete, a chemical test:
First offense Suspended 1 year.
Second offense in 10 years Revoked 2 years.
Three or more offenses in 10 years Revoked 3 years.
If you took a chemical test and the test showed 0.08% BAC or
more:
First offense Suspended 6 months.
A second offense within 10 years, suspended for two
years.
A third conviction within 10 years, revoked for three years.
A fourth offense within 10 years, revoked for four years.
NEW LAW SINCE 2006
AB 979- DUI: Suspension and Revocation of License (Amendment to CVC 13352)
This bill provides that a person convicted of multiple DUIs within 10 years of a
prior conviction, can have his or her privilege reinstated, if he or she shows proof of
completing the initial 12 months of either the 18-month or 30-month drinking
driver treatment program, installs an ignition interlock device, and establishes
proof of financial liability.
AB 1353- Sentencing for Driving While Under the Influence (Amendments to CVC
23538 and 23556)
This bill increases the duration of alcohol treatment programs after a first DUI
conviction, where probation is granted from 6 months to 9 months and the required
program activity hours from 45 hours to 60 hours when the blood alcohol content
(BAC) is 20% or greater, or the subject refuses a chemical test.
NEW LAW SINCE 2007
CVC Section 23536 - DUI- Penalty, First Conviction
Has been amended to increase the mandatory driver's license suspension period to
ten months for persons convicted of a first offense of DUI if the individual's blood
alcohol concentration level was .20% or greater.
NEW LAWS SINCE 2009
Driving Under the Influence Repeated Offense Operative January 1, 2009
Amend and Add: Vehicle Code 13353.1, 13353.2, 22651, 42009, 422010, 13389,
and 23154 (AB 1165 Chapter 749)
Makes it unlawful for a person who is on probation for a driving-under-theinfluence offense to operate a motor vehicle at any time with a blood-alcohol
concentration of 0.01 percent or greater.
Imposes an admin per se driver license suspension on persons found to
violate this prohibition.
NEW
LAWS
FOR
2010
Adds
Vehicle
Code
Section
23700
OPERATIVE:
July
1,
2010
Establishes a four-county pilot program in the Counties of Alameda, Los Angeles,
Sacramento, and Tulare to assess the effectiveness of Ignition interlock device
(IID) installation in reducing driving under the influence violations in those
counties. This law requires first-time and repeat driving under- the-influence (DUI)
offenders to install an IID for a term ranging from 5 months to 36 months for
various DUI violations and for a term ranging from 12 months to 48 months for
various DUI violations involving an injury. This law requires the DMV to study the
effectiveness of IIDs to reduce the recidivism rate of DUI offenders and report
their
findings
to
the
Legislature.
OPERATIVE:
July
1,
2010
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol While on Probation for Prior DUI
23154. (a) It is unlawful for a person who is on probation for a violation of Section
23152 or 23153 to operate a motor vehicle at any time with a blood-alcohol
concentration of 0.01 percent or greater, as measured by a preliminary alcohol
screening test or other chemical test. (b) A person may be found to be in violation
of subdivision (a) if the person was, at the time of driving, on probation for a
violation of Section 23152 or 23153, and the trier of fact finds that the person had
consumed an alcoholic beverage and was driving a vehicle with a blood-alcohol
screening test or other chemical test. (c) (1) A person who is on probation for a
violation of Section 23152 or 23153 who drives a motor vehicle is deemed to have
given his or her consent to a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical
test for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol in the person, if lawfully
detained for an alleged violation of subdivision (a). (2) The testing shall be
incidental to a lawful detention and administered at the direction of a peace officer
having reasonable cause to believe the person is driving a motor vehicle in violation
of subdivision (a). (3) The person shall be told that his or her failure to submit to,
or the failure to complete, a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical
test as requested will result in the suspension or revocation of the persons
privilege to operate a motor vehicle for a period of one year to three years, as
provided in Section 13353.1. Added Sec. 5, Ch. 749, Stats. 2007. Effective January
1,
2008.
Operative
January
1,
2009.
Ignition
Interlock
Devices
Amends Vehicle Code SB 1190, Sections 23575 & 23575.1
Reduces the threshold of the blood alcohol content that triggers the
requirement for the court to give heightened consideration for the
installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a first time offender
convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of an alcoholic beverage from .
20 percent to .15 percent or more at the time of arrest. This law also
authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to study the effectiveness of
IDs to reduce the recidivism rate of first time DUI offenders and report their
findings to the Legislature.
NEW LAWS FOR 2011
Driving Under the Influence (23597 VC) Effective in January 1, 2012, this bill
authorizes a court to order a 10 year revocation of the driver license of a person
convicted of a third or subsequent DUI violation, with possible reinstatement after
five years if specified conditions are met.
RESTRICTED LICENSE
If you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs twice
within ten years, the court must punish you with time in jail (up to a year), a fine
up to $1,000, and may take your vehicle for up to 90 days. You may lose your
license for 24 months. After this, you can drive only if you file a special certificate
of insurance (SR 22) with the department. You may be allowed to obtain a
restricted license if you take part in, and complete, a driving under the influence
(DUI) program.
Even if you can get insurance after a DUI conviction, it will probably be very
expensive. If you are convicted a third time within ten years, you will lose your
driver license for up to three years, pay a heavy fine, and spend four or more
months in jail. After that, you must apply for a new driver license, and you can only
drive after filing a special certificate of insurance (SR 22) with DMV and proof of
completion of a DUI program.
It is a serious crime if any person gets hurt or killed because you were driving
under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You will be punished with fines, jail, and
license suspension or revocation. You could also face a civil lawsuit that could
result in a financial disaster for you.
ACTIONS AGAINST THE PROVISIONAL LICENSE
If you are under 18 years of age, you are in a special group. You and others your
age can move and think faster than older drivers. Drivers your age should have the
safest and most collision-free record in California.
But skill and good judgment don't always go together. Some teenagers have the
skill to drive safely, but don't use good judgment. For this reason, teenagers as a
group have more collisions than most other drivers. They average twice as many
collisions as adult drivers, while driving only half as many miles. This makes the
teenage collision rate per mile four times as great as that of adult drivers.
Based upon research conducted over the past 20 years, it is generally
accepted that about 38% of all traffic deaths are caused by driving under the
influence of alcohol.
Many new driver collisions occur at intersections. These collisions are often
caused by skid (or other losses of control) and result in rear-end collisions or
collisions with fixed objects (parked cars, poles, etc.).
A restricted license (only for first offense of 0.08% BAC or more) can be issued
following a 30-day suspension of the driving privilege if a chemical test was taken
and you were 21 years of age or older when the offense occurred. You may obtain
a restricted license for driving to and from a state licensed DUI program or you may
obtain a five-month restricted license to operate to and from work and driving
during the course of employment and to and from the activities of a DUI program if
you:
Submit evidence of enrollment in a DUI program.
File proof of insurance and maintain it for three years.
Pay all applicable fees.
EFFECTS
The deadly effects of alcohol, drugs or a combination of the two on the human
body has been amply demonstrated.
Alcohol is a depressant, first affecting the central nervous system, reducing

judgement, reaction time, motor coordination, vision, and hearing. Effects are in
direct ratio to the amount in the blood (BAC/BAL). This in turn relates to the
quantity consumed; time drinking was started, and time between drinks; body
weight; food consumed, etc. It is water soluble, requires no digestion, and is
absorbed directly into the blood stream. Oxidation occurs at a slow steady rate of
about one drink per hour. There is no way to hasten the process. It also affects and
damages other organs, including the heart, stomach, and liver, causing
enlargement of the heart (leading to congestive heart failure), cancer of the
digestive system, and liver and hepatitis, as well as cirrhosis of the liver. Alcoholic
coma can lead to death. The higher learning centers are first to be affected (as
above), followed by muscular control center, and then the vital function center.
(Digestion, breathing, heartbeat, circulation).
SOME
IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER

If you are ill or upset, don't drive.
Don't drive after drinking or using drugs.
Don't ride with anyone who has been drinking
or using drugs, either.
Emotions, such as anger or worry, can make
you drive unsafely. Never let out your anger by
driving recklessly.
It is illegal to drive impaired.
DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - EVERYONE'S PROBLEM

The basic problem is in society's view of D.U.I. we think that "it's O.K. to drive
while intoxicated. We are going to have to will a change in attitude, collectively
and individually, before the problem will decrease.
In addition to sanctions imposed as a result of a court conviction, DUI offenders

face administrative license actions (suspensions and revocations) by the DMV.
These actions are mandatory (the DMV must apply them on violators) and
independent of any criminal penalties imposed by a court. Table 2 summarizes
license suspensions and revocations imposed on DUI drivers.
Table 2: DMV License Suspensions and Revocations
Natur
e
of
Offen
se
First
Second
Third
more)
Drive
r
Unde
r 21,
BAC .
01%
or
more
1
year
or
mor
e
1 year or more
1 year or more
2 years
3 years
Drive
r 21
and
6
mon
(or
Over
BAC .
08%
or
more
ths
Chem
ical
Test
Refus
al
1
year
2
years*(Revoc
ation)
3
years*(Revoca
tion)
*This punishment for a second "test refusal" also applies if prior offenses were for
DUI or were DUI-related.
ALS PROCESS
The administrative license suspension process begins when a driver is cited for
DUI. The driver license is taken on the spot by the arresting law enforcement
officer if the driver:
Violates the civil per se laws (as shown in Table 1: .01% for drivers under
21; .08% for drivers 21 or over)
Licensed offenders are then served with a DMV order of suspension or revocation,
which serves as a 30-day license. The suspension or revocation takes effect in 30
days. Within 10 days from the citation date, drivers can request a DMV hearing. At
the DMV hearing, only a limited number of issues may be considered. These are
whether:
The officer had reasonable cause to believe the driver was driving a vehicle
with an illegally high BAC
the driver was arrested (or "lawfully detained" if age 21 or less)
the driver refused a chemical test or a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS)
test
the driver was informed that a refusal would result in suspension or
revocation
ALS hearings are independent of criminal prosecutions. That is, proceedings and
findings in one venue do not affect proceedings and findings in the other. For
example, if a defendant's charges are dropped in court, this decision has no effect
on the determination made at an ALS hearing. An important exception exists,
however: a not guilty verdict in a criminal case overturns an ALS determination and
its sanctions.
FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS
ALCOHOL GAZE NYSTAGMUS (An officer tells you to follow his finger with your
eyes)
(a) early on set - wavering at 45 deg. indicates .10 BAC as a general rule.
(b) tracking - inability to stay on track and follow finger or pencil.
(c) extremes - very early on-set
STANDING ON ONE FOOT - BALANCE
(a) hands at your side
(b) one foot extended 30 inches
(c) count by thousands
WALKING IMAGINARY LINE
(a) 10 forward, 9 back - or any combination
Where suspect must 'process info and think' of two separate instructions.
(b) heal to toe

(c) turning - (even)
FINGER COUNTING
(a) 1,2,3,4/4,3,2,1
ALTERNATE CLAPPING
Palm and the back of your hand while counting.
The appearance of the person plays a large part in the officer's assessment if the
person is under the influence or not. Police officers generally evaluate a driver's
physical appearance and condition while he is still seated in the vehicle. This
evaluation typically includes:
1) breath odor
2) condition of the eyes
3) demeanor
4) color of face
5) dexterity
6) speech
7) clothing
THE CHEMICAL TESTS
Implied Consent law means that you have already "said" that you would take a test
when asked to do so because the law states that by driving and having a license
you agreed.
There are a couple of rules to the chemical test that must be followed by the police
if the test is going to be valid and used as evidence against you.
The rules of the chemical tests are as follows:
A. The officer has three hours within the time of the stop to issue you a chemical
test.
B. You do not have a right to an attorney prior to a chemical test.
C. An inability to complete a test is interpreted to be a failure.
D. If the officer suspects drugs then you will be asked to take either a blood or a
urine and you will not have a choice.
Procedure for Chemical Test - VC 23158
BREATH TEST
Nothing in your mouth 15 minutes prior.
Two readings
(.000 readings to the thousandths place is now acceptable)
2100 cubic centimeters of breath to one cubic centimeter of blood.
BLOOD TEST
This is the most accurate and one of the only ways you can have a sample
saved and have your own independent test made to determine your BAC.
Additional testing may be done by independent sources.
You have a right to have your own test done.
THE CONSEQUENCES OF REFUSING TO TAKE A CHEMICAL TEST
Refusing or not completing a chemical test results in the following penalties by the
DMV:
1st Refusal: loss of license for 1 years
2nd refusal: second refusal in 10 years 2 year revocation
THE COST OF A DRINK
If you are convicted if a DUI, these are the fines and fees you will be forced to
payOUCH!
Vehicle towing and storage
Booking,
fingerprinting,
$187
and
$156
photo fee
Driver license reinstatement fee
$100
Car insurance increase
$2,700
DUI fine
$480
Assessment
system
for
the
court
$816
Community service fee
$44
DUI victims fund
$100
Alcohol abuse education fund
$50
DUI classes
$550
DUI Victims' Impact sessions
$20
Time payment charge
$35
Total
fees,
assessments
fines,
and
$5,238*
* If you use an attorney, add $2,000

There is no safe way to drive while under the
influence.
Even one drink can make you an unsafe driver.
Source:
National
Administration
SOME PARTY TIPS
Highway
Traffic
Safety
As host of a party, you can be held legally responsible for injuries or damages that
occur as a result of the alcohol you have served, even after your guests leave. You
can reduce the risk to yourself and your guests by attempting to keep the drinking
to a moderate level. Many things can be done to accomplish this but designating a
bartender who will keep track of guests who may drink too much and help stop
them in time to sober up before getting on the road is one of the best methods.
Serving food with drinks and providing non-alcoholic beverages will help people
stay sober as well.
Other ideas for socially responsible hosting include:
Do not over-drink yourself. As the host(ess), you can stay on top of and avoid
potential problems when you are able to think clearly and act quickly.
Find out how guests will be going home from your party. Be prepared to take
away car keys. Promote the use of designated drivers and encourage guests
to leave their cars at home and take public transportation, cabs, or walk.
Have cash and phone numbers ready for taxi companies. Some cab
companies and other charitable organizations offer free rides to the public on
holidays. Watch your local newspaper or television news station for lists of
organizations offering the service.
When your guests arrive by car, collect their car keys. That way, when they
are ready to leave, you can give them a second opinion on whether they are
sober enough to drive home by themselves.
Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party is over. Make sure
coffee, alcohol-free drinks and food is constantly available. However coffee
and cold showers do not make a person sober -- they only moderate alcohol
consumption. Only time allows the body to consume and rid itself of alcohol.
Plan to deal with any guest who drinks too much. Before the party gets
going, ask someone reliable to help you keep things under control.
Mix and serve drinks yourself or designate a bartender instead of having an
open bar. Avoid serving doubles and keep shot glasses, jiggers or selfmeasuring one-ounce bottle spouts handy to measure drinks. Guests are less
likely to over-drink when standard measures are used.
If you serve an alcoholic punch, use a non-carbonated base such as fruit
juice. The body absorbs alcohol faster when mixed with carbonation.
Be prepared for overnight guests. Have blankets and sleeping bags ready.
The easiest way to keep a drunk off the road is to provide a place to sleep.
Always serve food along with alcohol. It is always better to eat while
drinking than to drink on an empty stomach. High protein and high
carbohydrate foods like cheese, meats, veggies, breads and light dips are
especially good. They taste great and do not make guests as thirsty as salty,
sweet or greasy foods do.
WHEN THE PARTY'S OVER
If one of your guests has been drinking and should not drive, please do not give
back the car keys to prevent driving to and avoid harm. Maybe just a little
persuasion from you could mean the difference between life and death.
Suggest that you or a sober friend drive your alcohol impaired friend home.
The car can always be picked up at another time.
Suggest that your impaired friend stay overnight in your home. This may
sound inconvenient, but you could be saving your friend's -- or someone
else's-- life.
Have your friend taken home in a taxi. Pay for the ride yourself. It's hard to
object to a free ride.
Whatever you do, do not give in. Friends do not let friends drink and then
drive. In the morning, you will have a safer and maybe an even closer friend.
MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving)
MADD was founded by a small group of California women in 1980 after a 13-yearold-girl was killed by a hit-and-run driver. He had been out of jail on bail for only
two days for another hit-and-run drunk driving crash and had three previous drunk
driving arrests and two convictions. He was allowed to plea bargain to vehicular
manslaughter. Although he was sentenced to two years in prison, the judge allowed
the offender to serve time in work camp and later a halfway house.
Since 1980, MADD has continued to grow and pursue the efforts initiated by its
founders. MADD's National President became an elected position with specific term
of office. Two-thirds of MADD's volunteer national Board of Directors is composed
of representatives from local chapters.
MADD FACTS
You don't have to be a mom to be a member of MADD. MADD is made up of
moms, dads, young people and other individuals working to make a
difference on our roadways and in our communities.
MADD's prevention efforts focus on drunk driving and underage drinking,
these efforts have helped save more than 183,000 lives since the
organization's founding.
MADD is not against responsible alcohol consumption for individuals of the
legal drinking age of 21 years and older.
THE PROBLEM
Although alcohol-related traffic deaths have decreased by more than 40
percent since MADD's founding, drunk driving still remains the nation's most
frequently committed violent crime.
Statistics show that 15,786 people were killed and over 600,000 others were
injured in alcohol-related traffic crashes in 1999.
Underage drinking is America's No. 1 youth drug problem, killing 6.5 times
more young people than all other illicit drugs combined.
MADD VICTIM SERVICES
MADD is the nation's largest crime victims' assistance organization.
MADD offers a wide range of free support services and information for
victims of impaired driving, in addition to hosting an annual International
Candlelight Vigil of Remembrance and Hope.
1-800-GET-MADD connects victims to trained staff and volunteers who can
provide emotional support and guidance through the criminal justice system.
MADD LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS
Since its founding, MADD has helped pass more than 2,300 anti-drunk driving
and underage drinking laws.
MADD was instrumental in the passage of the national 21 minimum drinking
age law in 1984, as well as the 1995 "zero tolerance" provision of the
National Highway Systems Law making it illegal for those under 21 to drive
after consuming alcohol. In 2000, MADD helped pass a federal drunk driving
limit of .08 percent blood alcohol concentration, and is working to pass .08
BAC laws in the 31 states that do not yet have this law.
MADD also advocates for passage of a federal constitutional amendment for victims'
rights and stricter penalties for repeat and higher-risk drunk driving offenders, in
addition to other key legislation in states across the country.
THE FOLLOWING IS A TRUE STORY FROM A MADD MEMBER
The Barneys
Friday, December 20, 1996, is a date my family and I won't soon forget. It is the
night that we were hit head-on by a drunk driver.
We were on our way to Wisconsin to celebrate Christmas with our families. Instead,
we got to celebrate our lives. We had traveled for approximately one hour and 15
minutes when our crash happened. We were also only 10 minutes from our first
scheduled stop at my parent's house.
The man that hit us had been at a company Christmas party and had been drinking
for about four hours. He was quite drunk. We found out later that he had a Blood
Alcohol Content of .25 four hours after our crash; they estimate that he had a BAC
of .30 when he hit us. Three times the legal limit!
Our children were in the back seat, my husband John was driving, and I was in the
passenger seat. We were discussing all of the people we wanted to try to visit in
the week we were to be in Wisconsin. I was watching for deer in the road, when I
noticed head lights on our side of the road. Everything seemed that it occurred in
slow motion, but I know that it only took about 10 seconds before the impact. We
were doing about 55 mph and the drunk driver was doing between 85 and 100
mph!
The sound of the crunching metal, breaking glass and our screams were deafening.
If this were not enough, we were then hit a second time by a semi-truck. The truck
driver did not even stop to ask if we were okay or if he could help in any way.
A family from St. Cloud, Minnesota witnessed the whole ordeal. Fortunately, they
had a cellular phone and they immediately called 911. The woman in the family
came to our car to see if anyone was alive and saw that I was the most conscious.
She asked me if she could call anyone for me. Since we were on our way to visit my
parents, I called them and told them that we had been in a very bad car accident.
My mother didn't believe me until she heard the sirens of the approaching
emergency vehicles. My parents then got to the scene before all of them could
arrive.
The impact had jammed our doors shut and it took a long time to get us all out. My
father had to help cut my children out of their seat belts. Our youngest was alert
until this point; when they cut her out, she passed out. Josh, our oldest, was also
alert, but he began throwing up shortly after the crash. It had taken about 20
minutes to extract him.
Another 15 minutes and I was freed from the car. My legs had been pinned by the
dash and I couldn't move.
My husband, John, took almost two hours to remove from the car; the tool that they
usually use to cut people out was broken and they had to get one from another
county. The paramedics were quite surprised that John had even survived the
crash, let alone the time that he sat in the car unable to move. His jaw was broken
in three places, the steering wheel struck him directly under his chin, he had chest
injuries, the break pedal went through his right heel and metal from the car had cut
his left leg through all of the muscle and nerves down to the bone. He lost a lot of
blood as well.
We were all taken to Barron Hospital, which is not a hospital familiar with treating
traumatic injuries. The kids were air lifted to Eau Claire Hospital. John was taken to
Rice Lake Hospital by ambulance in the hopes that they could stabilize him. I was
left at Barron Hospital to be treated.
Josh suffered a perforated intestine and had emergency surgery to remove part of
his intestines. Jessica, our youngest, had bleeding on the brain and a bruised lung.
She was kept under observation. I just had many bumps and bruises but definitely
felt horrible.
John's father and brother met him at the Rice Lake Hospital. From what they now
tell me, John did not look like he was going to make it. Once they got him
somewhat stabilized, the doctors made the decision that they needed to transfer
him to another hospital-one that was better equipped to deal with all of his injuries.
Before they were able to leave Rice Lake, they had to remove him from the
ambulance to restabilize him because he had begun bleeding profusely again. When
they put him back onto the ambulance, they also had a nurse on board. John was an
EMT at the time, and he knew that when a nurse is sent with the ambulance, the
prognosis is not good.
By the time I got out of the hospital, it was 2 a.m. I did not know if my kids or
husband were still alive. My parents drove me to Eau Claire to be with my family. I
was not prepared for what I would see! John was still in the emergency room and
had been there for about an hour. The doctors did not want to risk surgery because
they thought they would lose him anyway and did not want to do so on the
operating table.
He looked horrible and neither of us knew how the kids were doing. But, we still
managed to joke with each other, which is typical for us.
John did survive surgery, which was done about 9 a.m. Saturday morning. And the
kids were doing as well as could be expected. I was in a lot of pain, but I had to
make appearances to everyone's room so they would know I was still around. I also
had the nurses take the kids to John once he was put into a room.
John and the kids were in the ICU for Christmas. Friends and family donated
presents and a tree. My best friend in the world sold her prized Tickle Me Elmo doll
that she had gotten for her nephew to get a Santa Clause to visit the kids. I am still
amazed that Santa agreed with only a couple of days before Christmas!
Jessica was released from the hospital on December 26, and Josh got out the next
day. John was transferred to Ramsey Hospital in St. Paul (now Regions Hospital) on
New Year's Eve. I was so relieved to have my children home and John that much
closer.
He finally was released from the hospital on March 7, 1997. John missed Christmas,
New Year's, and Josh's and my birthday. But he was alive, and that was all that
mattered.
To date, he has had eight or nine surgeries; hopefully that is all, but we never
know. The kids are doing fine now, and John has recently begun walking without
any assistance and is looking good.
As far as we are concerned, we feel that the drunk driver got off easily; he died
almost immediately. He was 22-years-old and left behind a wife that was 2 months
pregnant with their second child. The other child was a one-year-old daughter. We
do feel for his family and his children.
We also have lost so much because of this unfortunate and unnecessary crash.
John, as I stated, was an EMT and a volunteer fireman. We do not know if he will
ever be able to go back to these jobs, and he absolutely loved them. Financially, we
do not know if we will ever recover-but we will survive, and that is the most
important thing that we could have hoped and asked for.
We have also met some wonderful friends-people that we would not have met had
this not happened. We are active with MADD and hopefully we can make a
difference.
"Driving Drunk" Case Study#3

"Pilsner" Pete always loves a party. On this night, Pete decides to drive across town
to party down with his cousin Earl. Let me tell you, when these guys get together,
they really know how to drink each other under the table. But when Earl started
shooting his mouth off, Pete knew it was time to go. Pete contended that a 12
ounce glass of beer has the same alcohol content as a 4 ounces of wine. And in fact
the same alcohol content as 1 1/2 ounces of hard liquor (the 40/80 proof kind).
Well Earl wouldn't hear of it. Earl thought it was the size of the drink that mattered
and all drinks contained the same amount of alcohol. Well our friend Pete was right
on target. All three of those types of drinks listed above have the same alcohol
content. Believe it!
But, what a wasted night. Pete was only there for one hour and had put back four
beers. Is Pete O.K. to drive? If not, how long should he wait to be safe?
Pete is legally drunk and should not drive. It takes a full hour for your body to "get
rid" of one drink. SO, he should wait at the bar for at lease 3 more hours. But he
should not drive if he still feels intoxicated.
Our advice to these guys is to TAKE A CAB!
Section 4 of 5
Brakes that fail, engines freezing up from lack of oil, lights that do not work, or
power an engine failure that locks steering failure -- any of these problems can
be a recipe for disaster. Can you tell what they all have in common? You got it.
They all could have been avoided by properly maintaining the vehicle. "An
ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is a well known platitude. So it is
with safety on the road. If drivers keep their vehicle in good repair and service
it regularly and frequently, many of the dangers of the road will pass them by.
Just remember, we are not talking about your car; we are talking about your
life.
The engine of your car is the power factory of your car. All other systems in
your car control something. Some systems control the engine, and others
control heat, friction and waste. Properly maintaining all your vehicles systems
will not only make your car run better, but help ensure your safety on the road.
In this section we will discuss:

YOUR CAR'S SYSTEMS:
YOUR TIRES
CAUTION: Under-inflated tires wear out faster, are subject to blow-outs (due to
flex, the cords get too hot and weaken) and hydroplane at lower speeds. If your
tires are Over-inflated, the center of the tread rises and closes the rain grooves,
forming a channel for water to rise and lift. Traction is what gives the tires
control over the road.
Also:
Traction is provided by contact with road.

Tread provides Drainage (squee-gees water away).
Tires are rated by tread type and wear, traction, and temperatures.
Temperatures will affect pressure 1 pound per 10 degrees.
Tires are bonded with heat. Heat will cause them to unbond. Over or
under inflation, overloading, skidding, spinning and high speeds all
generate heat and will lower tire efficiency and life.
Pressure must be a compromise - performance vs. ride. (lower pressures
give smoother rides, but keep above factors mind. 3 pounds under
maximum is reasonable).
Rotation, alignment can also add life and safety to your tires. There are
marks built into your tires, (tread wear bars) to show degree of wear.
Look for uneven wearing - shows poor alignment, balance, or inflation.
Get a pressure gauge and learn to use it. Inspect for wear, nails, &
damage regularly.
Make sure your spare tire is in good condition and keep it properly
inflated. Also, be sure your tire repair/changing kit is in good condition.
TREAD DEPTH
The minimum legal-though not necessarily safe-tread depth for your tires is
1/32nd inch. To check your tire's tread depth, examine the tread-wear bars
that are built into the tire. When the tread-wear bars are even with the surface
of the tread at more than two spots around the tire, the tire is no longer legal
or safe to use.
27465. Tread Depth of Pneumatic Tires
THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD LIGHTING

Headlamps: During darkness, every motor vehicle other than a motorcycle,
shall be equipped with at least two lighted headlamps, with at least one on
each side of the front of the vehicle, and, except as to vehicles registered prior
to January 1, 1930, they shall be located directly above or in advance of the
front axle of the vehicle. The headlamps and every light source in any headlamp
unit shall be located at a height of not more than 54 inches nor less than 22
inches. (Vehicle code 24400)
24407.
Upper
and
Lower
Beam
24252. Lighting Equipment Requirements
On Cloudy days, fog, dusk, and nighttime lessens your ability to see and be
seen. Make sure all your lights, front, side, rear, and brake, are functional. Be
sure to check both your high and low beams. You may find that the high beams
work, and the low ones don't.
Never use high beams in fog, rain, or snow. It is important always to turn on
your low beams in fog, rain, or snow to increase visibility.
24406.
Multiple
24409. Use of Multiple Beams
Beams
The law requires that you use your headlights 30 minutes after sunset, and
leave them on until 30 minutes before sunrise. Additionally, headlights must be
used anytime a driver cannot see at least 1000 ft. ahead.
24250.
Lighting
During
Darkness
24251. Lighting Distance Requirements
REAR LIGHTING EQUIPMENT - THEIR PURPOSE AND REQUIREMENTS

Tail lights: During darkness, every motor vehicle shall be equipped with at least
two lighted tail lamps, red in color, which shall be plainly visible from all
distances within 1000 feet to the rear (500 feet prior to 1969). These are
needed so that drivers traveling behind you can identify your vehicle at night.
Brake lights: Every vehicle, other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped with two
stop lamps, red or yellow in color, visible from a distance of 300 feet to the rear
both during normal sunlight and at night. These are needed so that drivers
traveling behind you can identify when you are slowing down or stopping.
24603.
24600. Tail lamps
Stoplamps
Back-Up lights: Every motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, shall be equipped
with one or more backup lamps. Back-up lamps shall be so directed as to
project a white light illuminating the roadway to the rear of the vehicle for a
distance not to exceed 75 feet. These are needed so that drivers traveling
behind you can see that you are intending to back-up.
SIGNAL LAMPS AND DEVICES
Turn Signal System Required: Whenever any motor vehicle is towing a trailer
coach or a camp trailer, the combination of vehicles shall be equipped with a
lamp-type turn signal system. These are needed so that other drivers can see
that you are intending to change lanes or make a turn, VC 24950.
24951.
Turn
Signal
System
24606.
Backup
Lamps
24953. Turn Signal Lamps
Turn Signal System: Any vehicle may be equipped with a lamp-type turn signal
system capable of clearly indicating any intention to turn either to the right or
to the left.
Visibility Requirement of Signals: A lamp-type turn signal shall be plainly visible
and understandable in normal sunlight and at nighttime from a distance of at
least 300 feet to the front and rear of the vehicle, except that turn signal lamps
on vehicles of size required to be equipped with clearance lamps shall be visible
from a distance of 500 feet during such times.
24952. Visibility Requirements of Signals
Maintaining your lights is very important. Keep all your lights clean. Make sure
to maintain and clean your headlights, taillights, mirrors, windshield, and

windows. The position of your headlights is important as well. Headlights aimed
too high will blind oncoming drivers and create a potential disaster for both
drivers.
Auxiliary Driving and Passing Lights: Any motor vehicle may be equipped with,
but not to exceed two auxiliary driving lamps mounted on the front at a height
of not less than 16 inches nor more than 42 inches.
24402. Auxiliary Driving and Passing Lamps
24403.
Foglamps
24410. Single Beams
Fog lamps, driving lamps, and passing lamps look similar to one another, but
must meet different photometric specifications, and the laws concerning their
use are different.
Single Beam: Spotting a motorcycle at night can be very dangerous.
Motorcycles are only armed with single beam. Motorcycles must drive with their
lights on at all times which adds to their visibility. Oscillating beam headlights
are legal in daylight driving.
FLUID LEVELS
Make sure that your auto's fluid levels are correct. Learn how to check your oil,
water, antifreeze, battery electrolyte, transmission and power steering and
brake fluids. You can save time, money, and trouble. Make sure you have
enough gas. 70% of all disabled vehicles are out of gas!
OTHER CAR SYSTEMS
1. Electrical - ensure basic systems are in good order: Lights (connections
good, no shorts, bulbs, etc.) These are REQUIRED systems to be used in times
of darkness and low visibility, or to provide extra visibility for safety. Includes
headlights, turn signals, brake and back-up lights, emergency flashers, etc.
Also: starter motor, relay, solenoid, etc. Plug wires, distributor cap, points,
plugs, etc. Make sure battery terminals are clean and connections and wires are
good.
2. Brakes - very important! REQUIRED on all vehicles. If disc, make sure pads,
calipers, and discs are all in good repair. If drums, check shoes, drums and
cylinders periodically. Some firms offer free checks. Make sure the fluid
(power/hydraulic)is up to the correct level. If you drive through deep water on
road, slow down, tap brakes several times to vaporize water that may have
gotten on shoes, (after you pass through). Parking/emergency brakes are also
very important! According to statistics, over 70% of all cars have improperly
adjusted parking brakes.
26450.
Required
Brake
26451. Parking Brake System
Systems
3. Power Train: Starting system (as above); Engine properly tuned and timed,
all cylinders operating at proper compression levels; transmission: if automatic:
proper fluid levels, smooth operation, no slipping. If standard: smooth
operation, no slipping, missing, clutch operates smoothly and does not slip or
drag.
4. Miscellaneous - Safety warning lights, shocks, and wheel bearings are all
important. Horns are emergency signaling devices, NOT for voicing
anger/frustration! Must be audible for at least 200 feet, not excessively loud or
harsh. Body should be sound, & not pose a hazard to the driver or others.
Windshields must be kept clean, wipers in good condition, reservoirs full of
cleaning fluid. Mirrors are required. You should have AT LEAST one driver's side
& one inside rear-view. Should be clean and properly adjusted before you set
out. You are responsible for your car's maintenance.
WINDSHIELDS
Windshields: A passenger vehicle other than a motorcycle; every bus, motortruck, or truck tractor; and every fire truck, fire engine or other fire apparatus,
whether publicly or privately owned, must be equipped with an adequate
windshield.
26700. Windshields: Exception
Windshield Wipers: Every motor vehicle, except motorcycles, equipped with a

windshield must also be equipped with a self-operating windshield wiper. Every
new motor vehicle, except motorcycles, must be equipped with two such
windshield wipers, one mounted on the right half and one on the left half of the
windshield, except that any motor vehicle may be equipped with a single wiper
so long as it meets the wipe area requirements in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards Governing Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems.
26706. Windshield Wipers
Condition and Use of Windshield Wipers: Windshield wipers must be maintained

in good operating condition and must provide clear vision through the
windshield for the driver. Wipers must be operated under conditions of fog,
snow, or rain and be capable of effectively clearing the windshield under all
ordinary storm or load conditions while the vehicle is in operation.
Defective Windshields and Rear Windows: It is unlawful to operate any motor
vehicle upon a highway when the windshields or rear window is in such a
defective condition as to impair the driver's vision to the front or rear.
Sun screening Devices: Sun screens or sun-visors are permitted in all
automobiles if certain requirements are met. They help block the glare from the
sun and help you concentrate on the road. They may only be applied to the
front side windows if the driver or front seat passenger has in their possession
a letter or document signed by a licensed physician and surgeon certifying that
the person must be shaded from the sun due to a medical condition. The
devices may not be used during darkness.
26708.2. Sun Screening Devices: Requirements
MIRRORS
Every motor vehicle subject to registration in this state, except a motorcycle,
shall be equipped with not less than two mirrors including one affixed to the
left hand side, so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a
distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle.
26709. Mirrors
HAVING CLEAR WINDOWS AND MIRRORS

Keep your windshield and side windows clean inside and out. Bright sun or
headlights on a dirty window make it hard to see out. You should clear ice,
frost, or dew from all windows before you drive.
26710. Defective Windshields and Rear Windows
It is illegal to block your view of the road by putting signs or other objects on
the front windshield. Don't hang things on the mirror. Don't block your view
through the back or side windows with objects or signs. Tinted safety glass is
allowed in a vehicle if the glass meets U.S. Department of Transportation
standards and it is installed in a location permitted by those standards.
Motorists with sun-sensitive skin can use
removable sun screens on their vehicle's side
windows during daylight travel if they have a
letter from their physician.
Windshield stickers, etc., are permitted only in
four places:
A seven inch square in the lower corner of
the windshield farthest from the driver.
A five inch square in the lower corner
nearest the driver.
A seven inch square in the lower corner of the rear window farthest
removed from the driver.
Side windows to the rear of the driver.
26708. Material Obstructing or Reducing Driver's
View
Make sure you are able to see and be seen. If you drive in rain or snow, you
may have to stop sometimes to wipe mud or snow off your windshield,
headlights, and taillights.
ADJUSTING YOUR SEAT AND MIRRORS
You should always adjust the seat, mirrors, and safety belt before starting your
car. You may have a collision if you try to adjust them while driving. Adjust
your seat so that you are high enough to see the road. If you are still too low,
you should use a seat cushion. Do this before putting on your safety belt.
Adjust your rear and side mirrors before you start driving. If your vehicle has a
day/night mirror, learn how to use it. The night setting reduces the headlight
glare from cars behind you and helps you see better.
NEW LAW SINCE 2004 AB 1625- Amendment to CVC 27315 (d)- Seat Belts
Allows penalty assessments and court costs to be added to maximum $20 or $50
fine imposed on first and subsequent seat belt violations, this raising the maximum
amount of the fine that may be imposed.
The use of your safety belt is required by law if your
vehicle is a (an):
1968 or later model car
Housecar
Enclosed 3-wheel vehicle (not less than 7x4
feet) with an unladen weight 0f 900 pounds
or more)
Truck tractor (excludes passenger in sleeper
berth).
The safety belt must be in good working order, if it is damaged or not working
properly, it needs to be replaced. You and your passengers must wear a safety belt
while the car is moving. If not, you or your passenger (age 16 or older) may be
given a traffic ticket for not wearing a safety belt.
27315. Mandatory Seat Belt Law
In fact, a seat belt is required for each person in the vehicle. A child 6 or older or
weighing 60 pounds or more may be put in a child safety seat or in a seat belt. If a
child is under six years of age and under 60 pounds, the driver, parents, or legal
guardian, if present, must put the child in an approved safety seat.
Here are some additional tips for using a child safety seat:
The back seat is generally the safest place in the car for all children 12 years
of age or younger.
Babies up to 20 lbs. and about age one shall ride in a safety seat secured to
the back seat facing the rear of the car. Babies should not be placed forward
or backward in the front passenger seat if the vehicle has a passenger-side
air bag.
Children over 20 lbs. and about age one or older shall ride buckled up in the
back seat.
Make sure the vehicle's seat belt is put through the correct slot in the safety
seat. Incorrectly fastened safety seats defeat their purpose and can result in
injury.
Safety belts can reduce injuries and deaths. Many studies and actual crash tests
have proven this. Crash tests have also reinforced the proper way for pregnant
women to wear lap and shoulder belts. Wear the lap belt as low as possible under
the abdomen and the shoulder strap between the breasts and to the side of the
abdomen's bulge.
If you wear only a lap belt when driving, your chances of living through a collision
are twice as good as those of someone who isn't. If you wear a lap and shoulder
belt, your chances are three to four times better. You must wear both your lap and
shoulder belt if the vehicle is equipped with both and if the vehicle is equipped with
air bags.
WARNING: The use of seat belts reduces the chance of being thrown from your
vehicle in case of a collision. If you don't install and use a shoulder harness with
the lap belt, serious or fatal injuries may happen in some crashes. Lap-only belts
increase the chance of spinal column and abdominal injuries especially in children.
Shoulder harnesses may be available for your vehicle, if it is not already equipped
with them.
MYTHS ABOUT SEAT BELTS
A lot of scary stories are still told about safety belts. Many of the stories are not
true. Have you heard some of these before?
"Safety belts can trap you inside a car." It actually takes less than a second
to take off a safety belt. This type of scare tactic often describes a car that
caught fire or sank in deep water. Accidents like these seldom happen. Even
if they do, a safety belt may keep you from being "knocked out." Your chance
to escape will be better if you are conscious.
"Safety belts are good on long trips, but I don't need them if I'm driving
around town." Half of all traffic deaths happen within 25 miles of home.
Deaths can occur when drivers are going 40 mph or less. Don't take chances.
Buckle up every time you drive.
"Some people are thrown clear in a crash and walk away with hardly a
scratch." Your chances of surviving a collision are five times as good if you
stay inside the car. Even if your car is hit from the side, a safety belt can keep
you from being thrown out into the path of another car.
"I'm only going to the store. My little brother or sister doesn't need a child's
car seat, anyway. It's too much hassle." Car collisions are the No. 1
preventable cause of death of children. More deadly than leukemia or
muscular dystrophy, accidents also cripple or disfigure thousands of
youngsters for life. Crash-tested child car seats reduce injuries and save
lives. An older child can be placed on a crash-tested "safety booster seat," to
properly fit a standard shoulder/lap belt. In a collision, a child can "fly" back
and forth within the car, even at low speeds. Protect any small children in
your car. Take time to buckle them up in safety belts or car seats. It's worth
it, and the law requires that you do.
Most drivers, no matter how carefully they drive, will be involved in at least one
traffic collision during their lifetime. The chances of being injured or killed are
greater than you might think. About one person in three will be injured or killed in a
traffic collision. Since there is no way a driver or passenger can completely
eliminate the possibility of being involved in a collision, the best thing is to increase
your
chances
of
surviving
by
always
using
seat
belts.
Penalties:
First
Citation
$20.00
Second Citation - $50.00 and it goes on record.
CHILD SAFETY (BOOSTER) SEATS
A seat belt (or child safety scat) is required for each person who is age six or older
or weighs 60 lbs or more. However, if a child is under six years of age and under 60
pounds, the driver, parent, or legal guardian, if present, must put the child in an
approved safety seat. Don't put a rear-facing restraint in the front seat. Starting
with the first trip home from the hospital, put an infant in the center back seat.
Make sure the rear-facing restraint is tightly secured to the vehicle with an adult
safety belt and the baby is buckled snugly in. If there's no choice but to put a baby
in the front seat, then an on/off switch for the passenger airbag is essential. But
before you do this, remember the back seat is safer.
Even without airbags, kids riding in back are much less likely to be killed. When
babies outgrow their rear-facing restraints, they should graduate to forward-facing
ones or booster seats attached to a vehicle's back seat with an adult safety belt. As
kids later graduate to adult belts, proper restraint use still is essential. Don't put
the shoulder portion of a belt behind a child or under the arm. And don't let a
youngster do this, either, because it compromises protection. A lap belt should be

positioned so it's low and snug across a child's hips, not up over the abdomen.
Older kids should continue riding in a back seat. Only if there are too many children
to put them all in back should a child be allowed to ride up front. Then make sure
the seat is all the way back. Leaning forward to, for example, fiddle with radio dials
can put a child at risk. If you worry about keeping a child sitting back, you may
wish to consider getting an on/off switch for the passenger airbag.
NOT ALL child seats can be installed in all vehicles and all seating positions. With
numerous models of child seats, almost 300 models of passenger vehicles, and the
wide range of belt systems available today, correctly installing a child seat can be
challenging. The best way to be sure your child seat is compatible with the vehicle
you are considering is to test it before you purchase or lease the vehicle.
Be sure to read the child seat's instruction manual and review all information in the
vehicle owner's manual concerning correct installation. Once the seat is installed,
check it by firmly pulling the base of the child seat from side to side and forward.
The child seat should not move more than one inch in any direction.
27360. Child Passenger Restraints: Requirements
The following are two NEW LAW SINCE 2002

Kaitlyn's Law: The purpose of this law is to help prevent injuries to, and the death
of, young children from the effects of being left alone in a motor vehicle. This law
states that a parent or legal guardian cannot leave a child under the age of 6 years
old or younger inside a motor vehicle without supervision of a person who is 12
years of age or older under certain conditions. These conditions are if there is a
significant risk to the child's safety and health or when the vehicle's engine is
running or the key's are in the ignition. This is punishable by a fine of $100.00.
Vehicle code 27315: This amended law states that no driver, when present in a
motor vehicle, may transport a child under the age of six or weighs 60 pounds or
less without providing and properly securing the child in a child passenger restraint
system or safety belt meeting the applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.
This is punishable by a fine of $100.00.
NEW LAW SINCE 2003
Amendment to California Vehicle Code section 21212: As of January 2003 California
law requires all persons under 18 years of age to wear a properly-fitted and
fastened bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle or riding upon a bicycle as a
passenger, operating a non-motorized scooter or skateboard, wearing in-line or
roller skates, or while riding upon a non-motorized scooter or skateboard as a
passenger.
NEW LAW SINCE 2004
Child Safety Restraints- Amendment to CVC 27360 Requires that a child who is
required to be secured in a child safety seat (Under 6 years or under 60 pounds), be
secured in the rear seat of the vehicle. A child is allowed to be secured in the front
seat of the vehicle if:
There is no rear seat
The rear seats are side facing jump seats
The rear seats are rear-facing seats
The restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat
All rear seats are occupied by children under the age of 12 years
Medical reasons necessitate that the child not ride in the rear
A child may not ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle with an active passenger air
bag if they are under one year of age, weigh less than 20 pounds, or riding in a
rear-facing
child
passenger
restraint
system.
NEW
LAWS
SINCE
2008
Vehicle Code Section 12814.6 and Health and Safety Code 118947 This bill makes it
an infraction for a person to smoke a cigarette, pipe, or cigar in a motor vehicle
when a minor is present in the vehicle. The law applies whether the vehicle is at
rest or in motion, is secondary enforcement and punishable by a fine not exceeding
$100.
Health and Safety Code 118947 This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the
Marco Firebaugh Memorial Children's Health and Safety Act of 2007.
Section 118948 of the Health and Safety Code:
It is unlawful for a person to smoke a pipe, cigar, or cigarette in a motor
vehicle whether in motion or at rest, in which there is a minor.
For the purposes of this section, to smoke means to have in one's
immediate possession a lighted pipe, cigar, or cigarette containing tobacco or
any other plant.
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a fine not exceeding
one hundred dollars ($100) for each violation.
Section 118949 A law enforcement officer shall not stop a vehicle for the sole
purpose of determining whether the driver is in violation of this article.
TIPS FOR USING A CHILD SAFETY SEAT
The back seat is generally the safest place in the car for all children 12 years
of age or younger.
Babies up to 20 lbs. and about age one should ride in a safety seat secured to
the back seat facing the rear of the car.
Babies should not be placed forward or backward in the front passenger seat
if the vehicle has a passenger-side air bag.
Children over 20 lbs. and about age one or older should ride buckled up in the
back seat.
Make sure the vehicle's seat belt is put through the correct slot in the safety
seat. Incorrectly fastened safety seats defeat their purpose and can result in
injury.
These permanent seats are designed to restrain children at least 1 year old and at
least 20 pounds in a forward-facing position. Because they are built into the
vehicle, these seats are an effective restraint system for children. Built-in child
seats have an advantage over add-on child seats because they do not have
compatibility problems with the vehicle's seat design or seat belt systems.
New in 2000
Some manufacturers offer vehicles with a "Top Tether Anchorage System" this is a
metal plate or ring-like object bolted into the vehicle. Depending on the vehicle, the
anchorage may be located on the shelf or back of the seat, on the floor or on the
ceiling. This anchorage will attach to a top-tether strap that comes with some child
safety seats, and may improve protection by attaching the top of the child seat
more securely to the vehicle.
Note: Some manufacturers have introduced the next generation lower anchorages
in a few models.
Virtually all new cars have airbags and they're saving lives. They're reducing driver
deaths by about 14 percent, and passenger air bags reduce deaths by about 11
percent.
People who use safety belts may think they don't need airbags. But they do.
Airbags and lap/shoulder belts work together as a system, and one without the
other isn't as effective. Deaths are 12 percent lower among drivers with belts and 9
percent lower among belted passengers.
But there also are problems with airbags. Inflating bags have caused some serious
injuries and deaths.
Position is what counts serious inflation injuries occur primarily because of people's
positions when airbags first begin inflating. Anyone, regardless of size or age,
who's on top of, or very close to, an airbag is at risk. Most airbag deaths have
involved people who weren't using belts, were using them incorrectly, or were
positioned improperly.
People without belts or using them incorrectly, especially passengers, are at risk
because they're likely to move forward during hard braking or other violent
maneuvers before crashes. Then they're likely to be very close to, or on top of,
airbags before inflation begins. Improperly positioned people at risk include drivers
who sit very close to the steering wheel--10 inches or closer-- and infants in rearfacing restraints in front seats.
MANUAL AIR BAG ON-OFF SWITCH
Vehicles with no back seat, or a back seat that is too small to hold a child seat, may
be equipped with a special switch that lets the driver control the passenger air bag.
The switch has a warning light that must be clearly visible to all front seat
passengers that will tell them when the air bag has been turned off. A rear facing
infant seat should NEVER be placed in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with an
active passenger airbag. Infants and children can be injured or even killed if the air
bag deploys. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual for information on the proper use
of the air bag on-off switch.
Please note: Children are safest when properly restrained in the back seat, whether
the vehicle has an air bag or not.
In addition, drivers and passengers fitting certain risk profiles can get authorization
from NHTSA to have an on-off switch installed by a dealer or repair facility if a
switch is available for the vehicle they own. The four risk profiles are:
Cannot avoid placing rear-facing infant seats in the front passenger seat.
Have been advised by a physician that you have a medical condition that
places you at specific risk.
Cannot adjust the driver's position to keep your breastbone back
approximately 10 inches from the steering wheel.
Cannot avoid situations, such as a car pool, that require a child 12 or under
to ride in the front seat.
Some manufacturers offer vehicles with a system that deactivates the passenger air
bag when a special child restraint, sold by these manufacturers, is properly
installed. At the time of publication, two vehicle manufacturers offer these systems:
Mercedes-Benz
and
Porsche.
You can get a brochure about on-off switches and an installation request form from
local vehicle dealerships, AAA offices, state motor vehicle offices, and NHTSA. Since
on-off switches are not available for all vehicles, verify availability of a switch for
your vehicle before you request authorization for its installation.
Sound your horn when necessary to avoid collisions. Don't honk at other
times.
Try to get "eye contact" with other drivers. Sometimes it may be necessary
to tap your horn to alert another driver who may want to turn in front of you.
On narrow mountain roads, drive as far to the right as possible and sound
your horn where you cannot see at least 200 feet ahead.
If a driver is going slowly, don't honk just to make a slow driver hurry. The
driver may be ill, lost, or may be having problems with the car.
Never honk if slowing or stopping your car will prevent a collision. It's safer
to use the brakes than push the horn.
Don't honk simply to show other drivers that they have made a mistake. Your
honking may upset them so much that they may make more mistakes.
Never honk because you are angry or upset.
27000.
Horns
or
27001. Use of Horns
Warning
Devices
NEW LAW SINCE 2005

CVC section 24400 - Required usage of headlights
Windshield Wipers On = Headlights On - every motor vehicle, other than a
motorcycle, be operated with headlamps whenever weather conditions prevent a
driver from clearly discerning a person or other motor vehicle on the highway from
a distance of 1000 feet, or when driving in conditions that require windshield
wipers to be in continuous use.
NEW LAW SINCE 2006
AB 1474- Provisional Licenses (Amendment to CVC 12814.6)
This bill extends the provisional licensing restriction on nighttime driving to 11:00
p.m. It also extends the current six month passenger restriction to one year from
date of license issuance.
When it is cloudy, raining, snowing, or foggy.

On frosty mornings when other drivers' windows may be icy or "foggy."
Any time you have trouble seeing other cars. Other drivers will be having
trouble seeing you, too.
On small country or mountain roads. It is a good idea to drive with your
headlights on, even on sunny days. This will help other drivers see you. Your
headlights may help you avoid a head-on crash. Don't forget to turn them off
when you park!
SEEING CLEARLY
As a driver, it is important to adjust to the DRIVING ENVIRONMENT, taking into
account the following:
Is it day or night?
What are the road conditions?
Are there any other types of driving distractions?
What are the weather conditions?
If you can't see 400 feet ahead, it means you can't drive safely at 55 mph. If you
can't see 210 feet ahead, you can't drive safely at 35 mph. By the time you saw an
object in your path, it would be too late to stop without hitting it. Adjust your
driving to the weather. You should slow down in rain or fog. Turn on your lights
during the day if it is hard to see. It is always illegal to drive with only your parking
light on.
Fog:The best advice for driving in the fog is DON'T. You should consider postponing
your trip until the fog clears or at least carefully planning your route before you
drive. If you must drive, then slow down and turn on your low-beam headlights
because the light from high beam will reflect back and cause glare. Never drive with
just your parking or fog lights. Increase your following distance and be prepared to
stop within the space you can see in front of your vehicle. Avoid crossing or passing
lanes of traffic unless absolutely necessary.
Listen for traffic you cannot see. Use your wipers and defroster as necessary for
best vision. If the fog becomes so thick that you can barely see, pull completely off
the road. Look in the rear view mirror for vehicles approaching. Do not continue
driving until you can see better. Turn off your lights or someone may see your
taillights and drive into you.
Darkness: Be very careful when you drive at night. Go slower because you cannot
see as far. Motorcycles are harder to see at night because most have only one
taillight. You will have less time to stop if a hazard lies ahead. Make sure you can
stop within the distance lighted by your headlights.
The law says you must turn your headlights on 30 minutes after sunset and leave
them on until 30 minutes before sunrise. You must turn your lights on any time you
can't see at least 1000 feet ahead. Use your low beam headlights whenever it is
raining. Remember, it is always /illegal to drive with only your parking lights on.
Use low beams in fog, snow, or heavy rain. Light from high beams will reflect back
and cause glare. Remember is it just as important to BE SEEN by other drivers as it
is for YOU to see THEM.
Do not blind other drivers with your high beam headlights. Dim your lights by
switching to low beams before you are 500 feet from a vehicle coming toward you.
If you are following another vehicle, change to low beams when you get closer than
300 feet. Use your high beams when ever possible as long as it is not illegal (i.e., in
open country when other cars are not near or on dark city streets when no other
traffic would be affected by your high beams).
By the time your foot hits the brake, your vehicle has traveled about as many feet
forward as the number of miles per hour you are traveling.
26454. Control and Stopping Requirements
REACTION TIME: If you are traveling at 50 miles per hour, it will take 50 feet just
for you to react and put your foot on the brake. Of course, the stopping distance
varies depending on the surface of the road, the condition of the brakes, and the
skill of the driver in recognizing and reacting to hazards.
Below are average Braking Distances in different conditions. (in feet)
Dry
Concrete
Gravel
Wet
Pavement
Packed
Snow
Ice
Slee
20 mph 47 feet
20
mph 70 feet
20 mph 78 feet
20 mph
105
feet
20m
feet
30 mph 88 feet
30
mph
135
feet
30 mph 147 feet
30 mph
194
feet
30 m
feet
40 mph 149 feet
40
mph
232
feet
40 mph 252 feet
40 mph
336
feet
40 m
feet
50 mph 243 feet
50
mph
374
feet
50 mph 404 feet
50 mph
541
feet
50 m
- 1
feet
60 mph 366 feet
60
mph
60 mph 607 feet
60 mph
808
60 m
- 1
561
feet
70 mph 532 feet
70
mph
818
feet
70 mph 882 feet
feet
feet
70 mph
- 1184
feet
70 m
- 2
feet
Maintaining control of your vehicle is a key to safe driving. Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) technology has become available to maintain rolling traction, offering skidfree stopping and steering control.
ABS allows the driver to steer his/her vehicle out of potentially damaging
situations. The anti-lock brake system is engaged only under potentially dangerous
conditions and engages when it detects impending wheel lock. ABS is not engaged
under normal braking conditions and it will not impair normal braking actions.
What is the difference between ABS and conventional automobile brakes?
Conventional brakes allow wheels to be locked by the driver and produce a loss of
rolling traction. ABS engages when a wheel speed sensor detects impending wheel
lock-up, allowing the vehicle to be steered while helping maintain vehicle stability.
The two ways that the anti-lock brake system can be deactivated by the driver are
by removing the hard pressure from the brake pedal or by pumping the brakes.
With ABS, brakes may feel harder to push, have a vibration, and noises may occur.
With ABS stopping distance may be longer on some surfaces, such as freshly fallen
snow or loose gravel, but the ability to steer the vehicle remains.
Four things one should not do with ABS brakes.
Don't drive more aggressively
Don't pump the brakes
Don't forget to steer after checking for clearance
Don't be alarmed by noise and vibration which may occur
If your brakes suddenly give out:

Downshift to low gear.
Pump the brake pedal fast and hard to build up brake fluid pressure. You will
know in three to four pumps if the brakes will work. Do not pump antilock
brakes.
Apply the parking brake, but be ready to release it if the car begins to skid.
Remember, you can still steer and swerve. You could steer into bushes or
something soft.
Sound your horn and flash your lights to warn other drivers.
When you no longer need to change direction, turn off the ignition.
The faster the speed, the less control you have of your car. Rather than just looking
at the legal posted speed limit, you should consider what may affect the safe
operation of your car. For example, should you drive 35 mph (the posted speed
limit) on a curve down an icy mountain road? Many new drivers do not slow to safe
speeds for each road. That is one reason why new drivers have more "out-of
-control" collisions than experienced drivers.
DEMANDS OF DRIVING ON AN OPEN HIGHWAY
Areas of Potential Hazards
Unmarked farm and field driveways are an added danger in driving. Pick-up trucks,
tractors and other slow moving vehicles can be hard to navigate around. Tall crops,
and other farm equipment can also diminish a drivers' visibility.
Livestock is another potential hazard when driving. You must treat livestock like a
pedestrian and give them the right-of-way the entire time. Like pedestrians,
livestock can get confused crossing the road.
Rough road conditions are yet another obstacle to deal with while driving. Loose
gravel, bumps, and potholes can cause your vehicle to lose control.
The unmarked shoulder can cause your car to skid. In rural settings, gas stations or
roadside stands can be dangerously close to the road. Be aware for vehicle and
pedestrian traffic.
Curving, winding two-lane roads in mountains present another adjustment demand
on drivers not accustomed to using them. Signaling distances are greater, the act of
passing and being passed requires more space allowance between vehicles, and
driving, in general, requires a different set of expectations. Motorists unfamiliar
with these requirements create dangers for themselves and others.
Curves are tough to maneuver in city setting and even harder in a mountainous
two-lane setting. Hazards can come in the form of dirt on the roadway, blind
corners and unpredictable vehicle speeds. To be safe, lower your speed while
braking going through a curve.
Visibility is another key factor in a successful mountainous drive. An upcoming hill
in the road won't allow you to see what is up ahead. It's a good idea to maintain a
safe distance from the car in front of you and watch his brake lights for upcoming
dangers.
Hills are tough to negotiate because gravity tends to slow a car down or speed it
up. Use a lower gear setting while going up a hill for added powered and oddly
enough use a lower gear while going down a hill. The lower gear will slow your
vehicle and save your brakes. Snow, mud, and loose gravel can make it difficult to
negotiate. Be aware and take caution while driving in these tough conditions.
Brake failure and over heating are other dangers involved in uphill and downhill
driving. While traveling down a hill, don't ride your brakes. This can cause your
brakes to burn out. Use your lower gears to slow your vehicle down. While climbing
up a hill your car can work too hard and over heat. Keep plenty of coolant in your
car and turn your air conditioner off to help keep your car from getting too hot.
Your vehicle condition is important because driving on hills can cause your car to do
what it normally doesn't do.
High altitudes can accelerate the overheating of your car because the air is thinner
and makes your car work harder.
Before you take a big trip, make sure your fluid levels are correct and that your car
is in good mechanical condition.
You must allow other vehicles to pass when 5 or more vehicles are following you.
Pull to the side of the road, safely and let the other vehicles pass. When passing
slower vehicles be sure to never drive off the road to pass on the left.
According to DMV California law, drivers of vehicles proceeding in opposite
directions shall pass each other to the right; and except when a roadway has been
divided into traffic lanes, each driver shall give to the other at least one-half of the
main traveled portion of the roadway whenever possible.
Slow down when there is a lot of water on the road. In a heavy rain, your tires can
lose all contact with the road at about 50 mph. Your car will be riding on water or
"hydro planing." A slight change of direction or a gust of wind could throw your car
into a skid. If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas to slow
down gradually don't apply the brakes.
SLIPPERY ROADS
Slow down at the first sign of rain on the road. This is when many roads are the
most slippery because oil and dust have not been washed away. If the road is
slippery, it will not give your tires the grip they need. You must drive slower than
you would on a dry road.
Here are some guidelines to help you adjust speed:
Wet road, go 5 to 10 miles slower.
Stay on the paved portion of the roadway
Drive in the tracks of the car ahead
Allow more of a space cushion
Avoid sudden movements
Packed snow, cut speed in half.
Ice, slow to a crawl.
Keep in mind the time of year you are driving in. This is most important when you
are taking a long trip. The road and weather conditions during the summer may be
vastly different from the wintertime.
GOING THROUGH DEEP WATER
Going through deep water can be a very dangerous situation. The water could be so
deep that it may leak into your engine and stall it. This is especially dangerous in a
flood situation. If you travel through deep enough water, your brakes will also be
affected. Remember to safely pump your brakes to help remove excess water that
could slow the performance of your brakes.
Driving in high altitudes may promote overheating and vapor lock in some vehicles.
Vapor lock occurs when the fuel in your vehicle vaporizes, causing your vehicle to
act as if it were out of gas. If it should occur, usually allowing the vehicle to cool
will solve this problem. Carrying extra water in the trunk is generally a good idea
and will help should a driver find that his or her engine has overheated.
Driving in snow and ice demands effects how your vehicle turns as well. As a result
of reduced traction, stopping distances are increased. And when the pavement is
slippery from ice or snow, turning a vehicle requires reducing the speed and
beginning the turn sooner.
When you drive in snowy areas, carry chains in case you find yourself in conditions
where you can't drive without them. Make sure you carry the correct number of
chains and that they will fit your drive wheels. Learn how to put the chains on
before you need to use them. Also remember to maximize your visibility by utilizing
your defrosters and windshield wipers.
Close to the freezing point, the road is icy and may be more slippery than at colder
temperatures.
On cold, wet days, shade from trees or buildings can hide spots of ice. These
areas freeze first and dry out last.
Bridges and overpasses can also hide spots of ice. They tend to freeze before
the rest of the road does.
If it starts to rain on a hot day, pavement can be very slippery for the first
few minutes. Heat causes oil in the asphalt to come to the surface. It makes
the road slippery until the oil is washed off.
In a very heavy rain or snowstorm, you may not be able to see more than 100 feet
ahead.
When you can't see any farther than that, you cannot safely drive faster than 30
mph. You may have to stop from time to time to wipe mud or snow off your
windshield,
headlights,
and
taillights.
When you drive in snowy areas, carry chains in case you find yourself in conditions
where you can't drive without them. Make sure you carry the correct number of
chains and that they will fit your drive wheels. Learn how to put the chains on
before
you
need
to
use
them.
It is wise to turn on your low beam headlights when visibility is poor even in
daylight. Light from high beams will reflect back and cause glare. You may have to
flash your headlights under certain circumstances to get the attention of another
driver who may not see you.
To help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces, you should:
Drive more slowly and stay further behind the vehicle ahead.
Slow down as you approach curves and intersections.
Avoid fast turns.

Avoid quick stops. "Pump" the brakes to slow or stop. (Antilock brakes do
not require pumping.)
Shift to low gear before going down a steep hill.
Watch for any troubles where ice or deep water collects.
If the brakes get wet, dry them by pressing the gas pedal and brake pedal at the
same time so that the car drives against the pressure of the brakes. Do this only
until the brakes begin working.
Avoid especially slippery areas, such as ice patches, wet leaves, oil, or deep
puddles.
Many collisions happen because a driver didn't see a stalled car until it was too late
to stop. If your vehicle STALLS or you are having car trouble, and have to stop,
follow these rules:
If at all possible, pull off the road away from all traffic.
If you cannot get completely off the road, try to stop where people can see
you and your car from behind. Don't stop just over a hill or just around a
curve.
Turn on your emergency flashers to show a hazard or collision is ahead. You
should also use your emergency flashers if you are not moving. If your car
doesn't have flashers, turn signals may be used instead.
If it is safe, lift the hood to signal an emergency.
Give other drivers plenty of warning. If you have them, place emergency
flares or triangles 200 to 300 feet behind the car. This allows other drivers
time to change lanes, if necessary. Be very careful when using flares. They
may cause fires, especially when used near flammable liquids.
If you don't have emergency flares, follow the rules listed above and stay in your
vehicle until help arrives. Be careful for your safety and stay off the road.
Remember, don't even try to change a tire if it means you have to stand in a traffic
lane.
Sometimes a road that is normally safe becomes dangerous when slippery. Ice and
packed snow on the road can cause the car to skid, especially if you are driving fast
or going downhill. If you do go into a skid, ease off the gas pedal, stop braking, and
turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. If you can't control your car on
a slippery surface, try to find something to stop you. Try to get a wheel on dry
pavement or on the shoulder of the road. You may have to slowly edge into a snow
bank or some bushes to stop.
IF YOU GET INTO AN ACCELERATION SKID
An acceleration skid usually involves only the rear wheels and happens when the
tires lose traction on the road surface. Avoid sudden braking, it is better to ease off
the gas and then pump brakes lightly but fast. Steer in the direction which the rear
end of the vehicle is skidding, be careful NOT to over steer.
If you have a stick-shift, keep the clutch engaged.
IF YOU GET INTO A LOCKED WHEEL SKID
A locked wheel skid is usually caused by a person braking too hard at a high rate of
speed and locking the wheels. The vehicle will skid no matter which way the
steering wheel is turned until you release the brakes to unlock the wheels. Then
straighten the front wheels as the vehicle begins to straighten out. Slow the vehicle
gradually until you are at a safe speed to continue your trip.
STEERING WHEEL LOCKING DEVICE
Never turn your vehicle's ignition to the "lock" position while it is still in motion.
This will cause the steering to lock if you try to turn the steering wheel and you will
lose control of your vehicle. Chronic traffic congestion is the California commuter's
biggest headache, but even small changes in driving habits could provide fast relief,
according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).
DRIVING BEHAVIORS
Several driving behaviors which contribute to congestion were identified by a
task force of experts from the OTS, Highway Patrol, Department of
Transportation and DMV, including:
Rubbernecking
perhaps
the
most
frustrating of behaviors. Slowing down to
look at collisions or virtually anything else
out of the ordinary, is one of the worst
congestion offenders.
Tailgating - following too closely is common
on California freeways, accounting for
innumerable collisions which in turn clog
major freeways, often for hours.
Unnecessary lane changes - although it
produces virtually no improvement in arrival
times, many motorists insist on weaving in
and out of freeway lanes, which slows down
all traffic.
Inattention - commuters can commonly be seen eating, grooming in the
rearview mirror, talking on a cellular telephone, and even reading the
newspaper as they drive to work.
Traffic congestion can also be caused by drivers who do not watch the fuel
gauge or maintain their vehicles properly. These vehicles can malfunction or
stall on freeways or surface streets and cause bottlenecks and major slow
downs in traffic flow.
TIRE FAILURE
Any tire can have a blowout, but heavily worn tires are the most likely
candidates. Tires with less than 1/32 of an inch of tread remaining are prime
candidates for a blowout. If a driver's front tires blow out, steering will be
affected; consequently, front tire blowouts are much more dangerous than rear
tire blowouts. For this reason, it is always a good idea to mount your best tires
in the front.
The first thing a driver should remember during a rapid deflation or blowout of
a tire is never to slam on the brakes. Hitting the brakes will only make the
situation worse.
The first thing drivers must do is to get control of the vehicle. They should grab
the steering wheel tightly and steer straight ahead. Simultaneously, they must
ease off the accelerator and allow friction to reduce the speed of the vehicle.
When motorists have regained a certain amount of control, they should tap the
brakes and steer onto a shoulder. Once on the shoulder and moving slowly
(about 20 miles per hour), they should finally brake the vehicle to a safe stop.
Handling blowouts on freeways is similar except that drivers have to be
especially careful of traffic in other lanes. Unless the blowout occurs in the far
right lane, they will be forced to cross other lanes to get to the shoulder. They
must be sure to signal first and to avoid braking at all until they are on the
shoulder. Fortunately, freeways usually have wide shoulders, allowing drivers

to move completely away from the flow of traffic. Drivers should never attempt
to change a tire on the shoulder of the road unless they are completely out of
the flow of traffic - and never attempt to change a tire on a sloping shoulder. In
the first case, they can be hit by on-coming traffic; and in the second, the car
can fall over on you.
TIRE BLOWOUT
Hold the steering wheel tightly and steer straight
ahead.
Slow down gradually. Take your foot off the gas pedal
slowly but don't apply the brakes.
Slow to a stop off the road.
Apply the brakes when the car is almost stopped.
IF THE ENGINE DIES OR YOU HAVE A POWER STEERING

FALIURE
Turn the steering wheel HARD, with both hands on the
wheel, to get to the side of the road.
Stop the car. You may have to push the brake pedal
hard if your car has power brakes.
Restart the engine and proceed with caution.
HEADLIGHT FAILURE
If your headlights suddenly go out at night:
Try the dimmer switch. That will often put them on again.
Try the headlight switch a few times.
If that doesn't work, put on the parking lights, emergency flashers, or
turn signals.
Pull off the road as quickly as possible and leave the emergency flashers
on.
HOODLATCH FAILURE
If your hood suddenly flies up:
Slow down.
Try to look under the hood to see. If you can't...
o Put your head out the window and look around the hood.
o Use the center line or the lane marking as a guide.
>Pull off the road as soon as possible and put on
the emergency flashers, if you have them.
STUCK GAS PEDAL
Shift to neutral.
Apply the brakes.
Keep your eyes on the road.
Look for a way out.
Warn other drivers by blinking and flashing your
emergency lights.
Try to drive the car safely off the road.
Turn off the ignition when you no longer need to
change direction.
WHEN YOU ARE STUCK IN MUD OR SNOW
Shift to low gear and keep the front wheels
straight.
Gently step on the gas pedal.
Avoid spinning the wheels. Drive forward as far as possible.

Shift to reverse and slowly back up as far as possible. Don't spin the
wheels.
Shift to low again and drive forward.
Repeat this forward backward rocking motion until the car rolls free.
Put boards or tree branches under the tires in deep mud or snow. Never
do this when the tires are spinning.
You may avoid getting stuck if you always carry chains in your vehicle. Put
them on the tires before driving in snow or mud.
REPORTING THE ACCIDENT TO DMV
When you have a collision, you must report it to the DMV if:
More than $750 in damage was done to the property of any person.
Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.
Each driver must make a report to the DMV.This can also be done by the
driver's insurance agent or broker or legal representative. The CHP or police
will not make this report for you.
You must make this report, whether you caused the collision or not and even if
the collision occurred on private property. Report the collision within 10 days, if
you don't your driving privilege will be suspended. Using the information you
give in the collision report, DMV may ask the insurance company to verify that
you had coverage in effect for the collision. If you did not have the proper
insurance coverage, your driving privilege will be suspended for one year. To
get your license back, if it is suspended, you will need to provide proof of
financial responsibility and maintain it for the next three years.
Every accident reported to DMV by law enforcement will show on your driving
record unless the reporting officer says another person was at fault. Every
accident reported by you, or another party in the accident, will show on your
record if any one person has over $750 in damage or if anyone is injured or
dies. It does not matter who caused the accident. The law says DMV must keep
this record.
NEW LAW SINCE 2003
Amendment to California Vehicle Code section 16000 : Reporting a collision to
the DMV- When you are involved in a motor vehicle collision, you must report it
to the DMV within 10 days if; More than $750 in damage was done to the
property of any person. Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly) or killed.
Each driver is responsible for making a report to the DMV. The driver's
insurance agent, broker, or legal representative can also do this. The CHP or
police will not make this report for you. You must make this report, whether
you are at fault or not, even if the collision occurred on private property. Submit
the report on the California Traffic Accident Report form (SR1). You can get this
form from any DMV or CHP office, or download it from the DMV's website. If you
don't make this report, your driving privilege will be suspended.
ACCIDENTS
If you see vehicle warning hazard lights ahead, slow down. There may be a
collision or other road emergency ahead. Stop and give assistance, or pass very
carefully, if possible.
Sometimes on your car radio, you'll hear collision
reports. Radio or news reports of collisions or
roadwork often refer to numbered traffic lanes.
The left or "fast" lane is called the "Number 1
Lane." The lanes to the right of the #1 lane are
called the #2 lane, then the #3 lane, etc.
The Most Common Causes Of Accidents
Unsafe speed
Driving on the wrong side of the road

Improper turns
Violation of the right-of-way rules
Violation of stop signals and signs
If You See An Accident

If you are the first person at a collision scene, pull completely off the
road after you have passed the collision. Check to see if anyone is
injured.
Tell the next person who stops to call 9-1-1. Give that person information
on the injured persons.
Ask other people to warn approaching traffic and put out flares or
emergency triangles, if any are available. Watch for and avoid gasoline.
Help anyone who is not already walking and talking.
Do not move the injured unless they are in a burning vehicle or in other
danger. Moving often makes injuries worse.
If a motorcyclist is unconscious, removing his or her helmet could make
the injuries worse. If possible, let a trained medical person remove the
helmet.
Move the vehicle(s) involved out of the traffic lane if it is not disabled.
Turn off the ignition of wrecked autos. Don't smoke! Fire is a great
danger.
Search the area for victims thrown from the vehicle. They may be hidden
in grass or bushes.
Whenever you drive past a collision, and emergency help is already at the
scene, do not slow down to "take a look." Keep on going. Pay close attention to
the orders and directions of law enforcement or fire department personnel.
Their expertise will only ensure your safety!
"Unhappy Honker" Case Study #4

"Honking" Henry lives and dies by the horn. When Hank drives down his
favorite Boulevard, "Honking Blvd." he hungers to honk his happy horn. We'll
get into Henry's horn abuse in a second. I just remembered there was this one
time when Henry made a good move. Henry was driving down Blowout Blvd and
guess what, his tire had a blowout. Now, your instinct might be to turn your
wheel and slam on your brakes, but that's not what Henry did. He did the right
thing and slowed down gradually. He took his foot off the gas pedal slowly and
did not apply the brakes. He then slowed to a stop off the road and applied the
brakes when the car was almost stopped. Good Move Hank!
But Henry wasn't always that smart. In fact, on one occasion, Henry was
angered as another driver pulled too close in front of him. Of course, our pal
Henry laid on the horn to let the driver know that his driving was less than
considerate. Should Henry be doing that? When is it O.K. to use your horn?
Henry should never honk in anger. In fact, the only time he should be using his
horn is to help avoid an accident. Honking in anger will only anger other drivers
and possibly make them crash.
It is always important to keep a solid cushion of space between your car and
the vehicle in front of you. As we learned earlier in the course, "rear end"
accidents are the most common type of accident. If you rear end the car in front
of you, you are more than likely responsible for the accident. We have gathered
the following tips on how to preserve your front space cushion.
Don't try to squeeze into a gap that is too small. Leave yourself a big
enough space cushion.
Watch for vehicles around you. Use your mirrors and turn signals. Turn
your head to look quickly to the side before changing lanes. Leave three
seconds of space between you and the vehicle ahead. Make sure you can
stop safely if you must.
If you have to cross several lanes, take them one at a time. Filter through
traffic slowly. If you stop to wait until all lanes are clear, you will tie up
traffic and may cause a collision.
Keep enough space between your car and the car ahead so that you will have "a
bigger picture" of what lies down the road and steering will be easier. You can
travel in the center of the lane instead of hugging one side or the other to let
you see. Most rear end collisions are caused by following too closely. To avoid
this, use the "three-second rule." When the vehicle ahead of you passes a
certain point, such as a sign, count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one
-thousand-three." This takes about three seconds. If you pass the same point
before you finish counting, you are following too closely. At faster speeds the
distance should be greater. Sometimes you will need more than a "three-
second" cushion. Give yourself a "four-second or more" cushion.

KEEP A SPACE CUSHION ON EACH SIDE OF YOUR CAR
Don't drive in the blind spot of another driver. The other driver may not
see your car and could change lanes and hit you.
Avoid driving alongside other cars on multilane streets. Someone may
crowd your lane or try to change lanes and pull into you. Move ahead of
the other car or drop back.
Keep as much space as you can between yourself and oncoming traffic.
On multilane streets, stay out of the lane next to the center line, if you
can. That way you will have more room to avoid an oncoming car that
suddenly swerves toward you. This is very important at intersections
where another driver could turn left without giving a signal.
If possible, make room for vehicles entering freeways even though you
have the right-of-way.
At freeway exits, don't drive alongside other cars. A driver on the
freeway may pull off suddenly or a driver leaving may swerve back on.
Keep a space between yourself and parked cars. Some one may step out
from between them. A car door may open. A car may start to pull out
suddenly.
Be careful when riding near bicycles. A bicycle rider could be seriously
hurt in a collision. Always leave plenty of room between your car and any
bicycle. Watch carefully for bicycles before turning.
KEEP A CUSHION BEHIND
Watch for tailgaters! If one is following you, be careful!
Brake slowly before stopping. Tap your brake lightly a few
times to warn the tailgater before you slow down. Your brake
lights
will
flash.
"Lose" the tailgater as soon as you can by changing lanes. If
you can't change lanes, slow down enough to encourage the
tailgater to go around you. If this does not work, pull off the
road when it is safe and let the tailgater pass.
When you are crowded by a tailgater. You should allow
extra room between your car and the car ahead. Then, if you need to
slow down you can do so gradually. You will be able to avoid braking
suddenly and being hit from behind by the tailgater!
On slippery roads. If the car ahead should slow or stop, you will need
more distance to stop your car.
When following motorcycles. If the motorcycle falls, you'll have to avoid
hitting the rider. Motorcycles fall more often on wet or icy roads, on
metal surfaces such as bridge gratings or railroad tracks, and on gravel.
When the driver behind you wants to pass. Slow down to allow room in
front of your car so the driver will have space to move into.
When you are pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load. The extra weight
makes it harder to stop.
When following large vehicles that block your view ahead. You need the
extra room to see around the vehicle and to the sides.
When you are stopped in traffic on a hill. The vehicle ahead may roll back
into your car when it starts up.
Whenever you cross or enter traffic from a full stop, you will
need a large enough gap (from cars approaching in either
direction) to get moving from a full stop or to get up to the
speed of other vehicles. You need a gap that is:
About half a block on city streets.
About a full block on the highway.
When you cross through traffic, you need enough room to get all the way
across. Stopping halfway across is only safe when there is a median (center)
divider large enough to hold your car. If you are crossing lanes or turning,
make sure there are no cars or people blocking the path ahead or the path to
the side. You don't want to be caught in an intersection with traffic coming at
you.
Even if you have the green light, don't start across if there are cars blocking
your way. It is against the law to enter an intersection unless there is space to
get completely across it. You can receive a citation if you block other traffic.
Never assume another driver will share space with you. Don't turn just because
an approaching car has a turn signal on. The driver may plan to turn just
beyond you. The signal may have been left on from an earlier turn. This is
particularly true of motorcycles. Their signal lights don't always turn off by
themselves. Wait until the other driver actually starts to turn before you
continue.
The freeway and highway systems require certain skills. Speeds are often high,
and perception, reaction, and stopping times and distances are often increased.
It is best to plan your time of travel to avoid unfamiliar or congested traffic
situations. Remember, guide signs are placed to help inform you of upcoming
choices and most indicate distance and route direction, it is best to prepare and
be familiar with alternate exits and routes.
21651. Divided Highways
When entering a freeway from an on-ramp, remember that freeway traffic has
the right-of-way. Also remember to increase your speed to help avoid existing
traffic slowing down. Drivers should adjust the timing of their entry to enter
without disrupting the flow of traffic.
If there are no acceleration lanes available, watch for "yield" or "'merge" signs.
Drivers should accelerate while they are on the on-ramp, then look over their
shoulder, find a sufficiently longer gap in the traffic, and accelerate to blend
into the traffic. Drivers should always keep a four-second following distance
between the vehicle and the car ahead of them, when traveling at high speeds.
Some common mistakes when entering the freeway are- 1) driving too slow,
which causes the vehicles entering the freeway behind you to be in danger, as
well as any cars that are already driving in the slow lane, since they must
adjust their speed to compensate for yours. 2) Driving too fast, this will also
cause any vehicles driving in the slow lane to change their speed. The proper
way to enter onto the freeway is to "blend" into traffic, simply by matching the
speed of the vehicles already on the freeway.
Remember that the maximum speed allowed is 65 mph on most freeways. A
driver should watch for vehicles ahead and for congested traffic that can cause
sudden stops in traffic. Changing speeds abruptly on the freeway is a frequent
cause of accidents.
When merging into traffic, extend your normal 3 second space cushion into a 4
second gap between you and the other vehicles. That will
give both the driver ahead and the car behind a twosecond following distance. As a driver, you need a 4
second gap whenever you change lanes, enter a freeway
from an entrance lane, or merge with another road.
When changing lanes, a driver should watch for other cars
around his or her vehicle. A driver should use the vehicle's
mirrors and signal at least 100 ft. in advance. The driver
should check his or her mirrors, turn his or her head to
look quickly to the side before changing lanes while
checking for cars in the blind spots. When the driver has
determined it is safe to do so, they should slowly ease into the new lane
(without changing speed) and then turn off their signal once the have
completed the change.
CHOOSING LANES OF TRAVEL
If you block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic by driving too
slowly, you may receive a ticket. Sometimes, of course, you may have to go
slowly. If you are going slower than other traffic, do not drive in the "fast" lane.
If you are in the left (or fast) lane, move to the right when another driver is
close behind you and wishes to drive faster. If you are driving on a freeway
with three or more lanes, the middle lanes are used for through traffic, the far
left is used for passing, and the far right lane is used for cars exiting and
entering the freeway.
When you are driving a bus, towing a vehicle or driving a large truck, you will
usually be traveling slower than other vehicles. You must drive in the right
hand lane or in a lane specially marked for you. If no lanes are marked, and
four lanes go in your direction, you may only drive in either of the two lanes
closest to the right side of the road.
HELPING OTHER DRIVERS ENTER OR EXIT THE FREEWAY
If you see a driver trying to get into the deceleration
lane ahead, it is more than likely that he or she is
attempting to exit the freeway, slow down and yield
him the right-of-way by opening up a gap for them to
use.
Watch for MERGING SIGNS, these signs warn drivers
that other vehicles are entering the freeway and that
they might be traveling at different speeds. If you
are in the slow lane and see another vehicle entering
the freeway beside you, slow down and yield him the
right-of-way by opening up a gap for them to use.
Both of these are considered a common courtesy and will definitely help
prevent accidents.
When traveling on a freeway, a driver may lose track of how fast he or she is
going. This unconscious state is called, "VELOCITATION". Be alert and
frequently look down at your speedometer to ensure you are traveling at a safe
speed. If you are speeding, remember that at high speeds, it takes longer to
slow down. Allow time to readjust to slower speeds.
A major problem for long, unbroken stretches of highway is "HIGHWAY
HYPNOSIS". This type of unfocused concentration leads to many accidents in an
otherwise unthreatening situation. Stay alert and try not to let your
concentration fade.
21660. Approaching Vehicles
If a roadway is blocked by a stalled car or an object in one of the lanes, you will
have to steer around it. Watch what other drivers are doing ahead of you to
avoid this, and proceed with caution. Since you are traveling at high speeds on
the freeway, there is increased danger in everything you do.
Should you have to pull off to the shoulder of the freeway for any reason, (say
you have a blow out or are out of gas) do so with extreme caution. First signal,
check your mirrors and look over your right shoulder. When it is safe ease your
way over to the right shoulder of the freeway, when you stop, be sure your car
positioned in such a way it does NOT block traffic. You should then warn
approaching traffic by turning on your hazard lights, if you have flares or other
warning devices, use them with EXTREME caution. There are certain rules you
need to follow for RE-ENTERING the freeway. The first step is to turn on your
signal, this will help alert traffic that you are attempting to re-enter the
freeway. Begin accelerating while remaining on the shoulder until you are
approximately the same speed as traffic to the left. Look for an adequate gap
and
blend
into
traffic
while
checking
for
hazards.
HEAD-ON DISASTER
Head-on collisions are surprisingly rare on highways; but when they do occur,
they are almost always devastating. It is not uncommon for the drivers and
passengers in both vehicles to be killed.
By following the outlined rules for safe passing, you will minimize your risk of a
head-on collision; but if you are ever faced with that possibility, avoid direct
impact.
One option is to turn your vehicle to take the impact on one side/corner of the
frame instead of straight ahead. If possible, drive off the road. Your chances of
surviving an oblique impact, a side impact or even a rollover are better than if
you take the impact head-on.
Leaving the freeway requires the same logic as when entering. As a driver, you
should not require freeway traffic to adjust their speed to accommodate your
leaving the freeway. You must maintain your rate of speed
and then not slow down until you have entered the off-ramp.
Deceleration or exit lanes are designed to allow drivers to
reduce their speed before exiting without endangering traffic
to the rear. Sometimes, there are multiple deceleration lanes
from which to exit, for example at interchanges. These will be
clearly marked by road signs or pavement markings to help
avoid merging conflicts.
When you plan to exit the freeway, make sure to give yourself plenty of time.
You should know the freeway exit you want as well as the one that comes
before it.
To exit safely, you should:
Change lanes one at a time until you are in the proper lane for either a
right-hand or left-hand exit from the freeway.
Signal your intention to exit approximately five seconds before.
Be sure you are at the proper speed (check posted limit) for leaving the traffic
lane, not too fast (so you won't lose control) and not too slow (so the flow of
traffic can still move freely). Look ahead to see the shape of the off-ramp, as
some of the off-ramps have extreme curves.
If drivers miss their exit, they should not stop or back up on the freeway. The
best method is simply to take the next exit and backtrack.
Timed Entrance: (metering) lights control many freeway on-ramps. These lights
usually allow one vehicle per green light. (This is to prevent too many cars from
getting onto the freeway at the same time, which in turn, causes traffic jams.)
Double Merge Lanes: These are provided to give slower-moving vehicles more
time to get up to the speed of freeway traffic.
Diamond Entrance Lanes: These lanes are designed to provide
multi-passenger (carpool) vehicles faster access to the freeway;
they do not have to stop at the entrance lights. If you are the
only person in the car, do not use these lanes.
Approaching a Tollbooth: If there is a tollbooth ahead, a driver
will be warned by "distance ahead" pavement markings and
posted speed signs. He or she should slow down and be ready to stop. Usually,
special lanes are designated for special vehicles, such as trucks, those with
exact change, and quick pay card-scanning systems.
LEAVE SPACE TO EXIT
When you plan to exit the freeway, make sure to give yourself plenty of time.
You should know the freeway exit you want as well as the one that comes
before
it.
To exit safely, you should:
Change lanes one at a time until you are in the proper lane for either a
right hand or left hand exit from the freeway.
Signal your intention to exit approximately five seconds.
Be sure you are at the proper speed for leaving the traffic lane not too fast (so
you won't lose control) and not too slow (so the flow of traffic can still move
freely).
Space To Pass
Avoid passing other cars on two-lane roads. It is dangerous. Every time you
pass, you increase your chances of having a collision. Ask yourself if the risk is
worth the few minutes you will gain. Remember, whenever you pass another
car on a two-lane road you must enter a lane that belongs to oncoming cars.
At highway speeds of 50 to 55 mph, you need a 10 to 12 second gap in
oncoming traffic to pass safely. You must judge whether or not you have
enough room to pass whenever you approach:
An oncoming car.
A hill or a curve.
An intersection.
A road obstruction.
PASSING IN AN INTERSECTION
Intersections are extremely dangerous areas to pass other
vehicles. It is dangerous to pass another vehicle where
someone is likely to enter or cross the road. Such places
include crossroads, railroad crossings, and shopping
center entrances. While you are passing, your view of
people, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or a train is blocked by
the car you are passing. Also, a driver turning onto the
road into the left lane won't expect to find you in his lane.
Avoid passing during this situation.
DANGERS OF PASSING
At 55 mph, you will travel over 800 feet in 10 to 12
seconds. So will an oncoming vehicle. That means you
need over 1600 feet (or about one-third of a mile) to pass safely. It is hard to
judge the speed of oncoming vehicles one-third of a mile away. They don't
seem to be coming as fast as they really are. A vehicle that is far enough away
generally appears to be standing still. In fact, if you can really see it moving
closer to you, it is probably too close for you to start to pass.
LANES FOR PASSING
Never drive off the paved or main-traveled portion of the road or on the
shoulder to pass. You will know the edge of the main-traveled portion of the
road by the white line painted on the road surface. When you want to pass a
vehicle or bicycle going in your direction, pass on the left. Passing on the right
is dangerous and is legal only:
If an open highway is clearly marked for two or more lanes of vehicles
moving in your direction of travel.
If the driver of the other vehicle is making a left turn. Never drive off the
road to pass to the left of a driver who is signaling a left turn. (Be
careful. Sometimes drivers use the wrong turn signal.)
21650. Right Side of Roadway
Curving, winding two-lane roads in mountains are

dangerous as well. Signaling distances are greater, the act
of passing and being passed requires more space
allowance between vehicles, and driving in general,
requires a different set of expectations. Turning can cause
problems too. You will feel a strong push on your body as
you wind around mountain turns. Be Alert.
Check the traction of the road. Rain, mud, snow, or gravel
makes a slippery surface. You must lower your speed
before entering the curve. Braking on a curve may cause a
driver to skid. The driver should try to stay as far to the
right as possible when approaching a curve. This is also a
good way to prepare for an approaching vehicle that is
traveling too fast and may end up in your lane.
Driving in the city requires you to be prepared to stop for unexpected actions of
other drivers or pedestrians or possible emergencies. For instance, drivers
should always cover their brake while driving next to parked cars; a car may
pull out of a space, or someone might open the car door on the traffic side.
Drivers should not press on the brake. This can reduce its effectiveness. They
should just have their foot ready to press. They should do the same thing when
they see brake lights of other cars or when approaching signal lights. These are
early warning signs for a driver to stop.
SPECIAL PROBLEMS WITH CITY DRIVING
Driving in the city can present different obstacles and different dangers. Parked
vehicles are notorious for blocking the view of pedestrians and cross traffic.
The lane a driver's car is in may be blocked for some reason: a detour, an
accident, road repair, or the lane may be merging into one. A driver must be
prepared to make a lane change. By looking far ahead, a driver will be prepared
to handle this situation.
When you must slow down suddenly, take a quick glance in your mirrors. You
should also check your mirrors when you are preparing to turn into a side road
or driveway, and when you are stopping to pull into a parking space.
LOOKING AHEAD OF TRAFFIC
If a driver looks ahead, he or she will be able to see
important things that cannot be seen later; for
example, signal changes, or someone getting into a
parked car. In the city, 600 feet is about one block.
When driving in city traffic, drivers should look at
least one block ahead. He or she should look for
changing traffic lights and beware if the light has
been green for some time (stale green light), and
must anticipate that it will be changing to red soon.
Leave enough space between your vehicle and the
one ahead of you. When another motorist makes a
mistake, a driver needs time to react. As a driver,
you can give yourself this time by keeping enough
space between your car and the vehicles around you. Keep a "space cushion"
on all sides of your car. It will give you space to brake or maneuver if you need
it. This also applies for driving on the freeway.
CHOOSING A LANE
Many roads have two or more lanes going in the same direction. Broken white
lines separate these lanes. As a driver, you must choose which lane to use.
Avoid jumping between lanes. Remember, changing lanes requires that you
momentarily take your eyes off the road in front of you. This can create an
unexpected hazard.
If you can choose a lane on your side of the road, pick the smoothest lane. If
you need to pass or turn left, use the left lane. When you are driving extra
slowly or planning to turn off the road, stay in the right lane.
SIGNALING
Signal to let other drivers know your plans. Watch for other drivers'
signals too.
Always signal before pulling next to (or away from) the curb.
Signal before turning or changing lanes. Use arm signals or the signal
lights on your car. On sunny days, signal lights may be hard to see. If the
sun is bright, use arm signals as well as signal lights. Even though you
signal, do not automatically assume that the space you wish to occupy is
clear. Look over your shoulder to check your blind spot, before making a
lane change.
22108. Duration of Signal
Signal during the last 100 feet before turning. On the freeway, it is best
to signal at least five seconds before changing lanes.
Always signal when you change direction. Signal even when you don't
see any cars around. A car you don't see might hit you.
If you plan to turn beyond an intersection, don't signal until you are
actually in the intersection. If you signal too early, another driver may
think you will turn before you reach him or her and might pull into your
path.
If you plan to turn at an intersection (for example) which is close to a
business driveway, be especially careful. People leaving that business
may think you are turning into the driveway when you really intend to
turn at the intersection. These drivers may pull out right in front of you.
In a case like this, it might be better to signal after the driveway but
before the intersection.
22109. Signal When Stopping
Check your signal after turning. Turn it off if it hasn't clicked off by itself.
If your turn signals are NOT operating correctly, OR you feel as though
another driver is not paying attention, you should use your hand-andarm signals also.
LEFT TURN
RIGHT TURN
SLOW OR STOP
VEHICULAR POSITION
It is important to keep up with the flow of traffic. A driver should be sure to
stay within the posted speed limits. Traveling too fast can make a car a hazard
on the roadway as does traveling too slowly. A driver should always try to avoid
traveling in the blind spots of other vehicles. It is always important to be
careful in the city. It is likely that others will be traveling in blind spots,
creating "bunches," which is dangerous. As a driver, you should always give
yourself an out if an emergency should arise.
CHOOSING A SAFE ROUTE
Drivers should try to plan a route before driving in the city.
They should avoid trying to drive in the morning and late
afternoon rush hours unless it is necessary. They should
know their area, stay off the main streets, and use side
streets. One-way streets are safer and faster to drive on
than two-way streets because usually traffic on a one-way
street flows much more smoothly (but keep your eye out
for vehicles turning onto the street going the wrong way,
this happens more than one would think). Street signs
identify one-way streets, the direction and the speed of
that street.
REDUCING SPEED
Reduce Speed. There are four advantages to driving at reduced speed:
A driver will have more time to see signs and markings and be able to
interpret their meaning. This will prevent you from making erratic turns,
lane changes, or stops.
There are many distractions in the city. By reducing speed, a driver will
have more time to analyze the information and predict what might
happen.
After a driver sees a sign or danger, he or she needs a certain amount of
reaction time. Again, by reducing speed, the driver will be given that
important second or two.
Having that additional second or two makes it possible to carry out wellthought-out decisions, such as taking an evasive action, making a lane
change, or making a safe stop.
Many roads have two or more lanes going in your direction. These lanes are
separated by broken white lines. You must choose which lane to use. Drive in the
lane that has the smoothest flow of traffic. You will save fuel.
If you can choose among three lanes on your side of the road, pick the
middle lane for the smoothest driving. If you want to go faster, pass, or turn
left, use the left lane. When you drive slowly, enter, or turn off the road, use
the right lane.
If only two lanes go in your direction, pick the right lane for the smoothest
driving.
Don't Weave, stay in one traffic lane as much as possible. Before changing lanes,
check your mirrors for vehicles that may be ready to pass you; also turn your head
and CHECK BESIDE YOUR VEHICLE to see if any vehicle, such as a motorcycle, is in
your blind spot and to be sure there is enough room for your vehicle in the next
lane.
21658. Laned Roadways
Once you start through an intersection, keep going. If you start to make a turn,
follow through. Last second changes may cause collisions. If you missed a turn,
continue to the next intersection and work your way back to where you want to go.
Special "turnout" areas are sometimes marked on two-lane roads. You may
pull to the side in these areas and allow cars behind you to pass. Other twolane roads some times have "passing lanes." If you are driving a slowmoving vehicle on a two-lane highway or road where passing is unsafe, and
five or more vehicles are following you, pull to the side of the road wherever you
can safely do so to let the vehicles pass.
DEMANDS OF DRIVING ON AN OPEN HIGHWAY

Open road driving can be very dangerous. A driver must pay attention to oncoming
cars. If there is a long line of cars coming from the other direction, he or she has to
be aware of drivers from that line who may want to pass a vehicle. If the other
driver ends up in the opposing lane, the first driver must slow down and warn the
other driver by flashing the headlights or sounding the horn. He or she must then
give the other driver room to merge back. A driver should be prepared to brake and
move onto the right shoulder of the road.
The same applies for vehicles that drift into the opposing lane of travel while
approaching a car. If you, as a driver, end up behind a long line of cars, avoid
passing them. You are risking a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle. Be
extra careful at night. Using your high beams can cause oncoming traffic to be
blinded. When you see oncoming headlights, be sure to switch your high beams to
low beams.
If the road is too narrow to drive entirely to the right of the center, the driver
should honk his or her horn upon approaching any curve where the view is
obstructed within a distance of 200 feet.
Some vehicles have trouble keeping up with the speed of traffic. Look for these
vehicles and adjust your speed before you reach them.
Farm tractors, animal-drawn carts, and road maintenance vehicles usually travel 25
mph or less. Slow moving vehicles may have an orange triangle on the back.
21654. Slow-Moving Vehicles
Never underestimate the size and speed of an approaching vehicle. A large tractortrailer often appears to be traveling at a slower speed because of its large size.
Many passenger vehicle/large truck accidents take place at intersections because
the passenger vehicle driver did not realize how close the truck was or how quickly
it was traveling.
21656. Turning Out of Slow-Moving Vehicles
ON A ONE LANE MOUNTAIN ROAD

When two vehicles meet on a steep road where neither can pass, the vehicle facing
downhill must back up until the vehicle going uphill can pass. (The driver going
downhill has the greater amount of control when backing up.)
21662. Mountain Driving
Carpooling and bus riding are useful ways to save fuel

and reduce the number of vehicles using highways in
heavy commute traffic. Some freeways have special lanes
and on-ramps for carpools. Using a CARPOOL lane
requires a minimum of 2 or 3 people in a vehicle,
including the driver. Signs at the on-ramp or along the
freeway tell you the size of the carpool (number of
people) needed to use that lane and the days and hours
that the requirement applies. The pavement of these
lanes is marked with the diamond symbol and the words
"CARPOOL LANE." Do not cross over the double parallel
solid lines to enter or exit any carpool lane except at
designated entry or exit places.
Some freeways may have a special lane for buses only, or buses and carpools. This
lane is also marked by the diamond symbol.
NEW LAWS FOR 2011
High-Occupancy Vehicle Lanes Prior law that permitted certain fuel-efficient, lowemission vehicles to display stickers allowing them to be operated in HOV lanes
with a single occupant was to expire on January 1, 2011. The new law extends the
"sunset" date for the yellow stickers for hybrid vehicles until July 1, 2011; the
white stickers issued to fully-electric and compressed natural gas vehicles until
January 1, 2015; and creates a third sticker, for plug-in hybrid vehicles, to be
issued and valid from January 1, 2012 until January 1, 2015.
21661.
Narrow
Roadways
21655. Designated Lanes for Certain Vehicles
52055. High Occupancy Lanes (HOV lanes, diamond
lanes, etc)
In high-density traffic areas, you may sometimes see an entire street, or a

few traffic lanes on a street, marked with cones. The cones indicate that a
lane or street is being used differently. For instance, to help relieve
congestion at a sports or cultural event, entire streets or a few lanes will be
used for traffic going in the opposite direction from what is "normal" until the
traffic congestion is cleared.
BICYCLE LANES
A bicycle lane is shown by a solid white line along either side
of the street, four or more feet from the curb. This line will
usually be a broken line near the corner. The words "BIKE
LANE" are painted at various locations in this lane. Don't drive
in a bike lane unless you are making a right turn at a corner or
other entrance, such as a driveway. Then drive your vehicle
into the bike lane no more than 200 feet from the entrance or
corner before your turn. Watch for bikes before entering the
bike lane. You may park in the bike lane unless signs say "NO
PARKING."
Pedestrians are not allowed in bike lanes when there are
sidewalks. Drivers of motorized bicycles should use bike lanes
carefully to avoid collisions with bicycle riders.
SAFETY ZONES
Don't drive through a safety zone. This is a space set aside for pedestrians. It is
marked by raised buttons or markers on the road. You will most often see safety
zones in areas where there are streetcars or trolleys using the same streets as
vehicle traffic, such as in San Francisco.
SIDEWALKS
Never drive on a sidewalk unless you are crossing a sidewalk to enter or leave a
driveway or alley. When crossing a sidewalk, stop for any pedestrian.
BE ON THE LOOKOUT
There are certain people you should give a lot of room to. Here are some of them.
Drivers who cannot see you. Someone who cannot see you may enter your
path without knowing you are there. People who have trouble seeing you
include:
o Drivers at intersections or driveways, whose view is blocked by
buildings, trees, or other cars.
o Drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces; drivers whose
windows are covered with snow or ice; people with umbrellas in front
of their faces or hats pulled down over their eyes.
People who are distracted. Even when others can see you, allow extra room if
you think they may be distracted. People who may be distracted include:
o Delivery persons.
o Construction workers.
o Children, who often run into the street without looking.
o Drivers or people who are talking to each other, taking care of
children, or looking at maps.
People who may be confused. A person who is confused is very likely to make
a move without looking. People who may be confused include:
o Tourists, often at complicated intersections.

o Drivers who slow down for what seems to be no apparent reason.
o Drivers looking for a house number.
Drivers in trouble. If another driver makes a mistake, do what you can to
help him or her out. Drivers who need help include:
o Drivers who pass you as you approach a curve or an oncoming car.
o A driver who is about to be forced into your lane by a vehicle, a
pedestrian, a bicyclist, an obstruction, or fewer lanes ahead.
Trucks are designed to transport products and they are not as

maneuverable as passenger vehicles. Large trucks have longer
stopping and starting distances. They take more space for turns
and they weigh more. On multi-lane highways and freeways,
large trucks usually stay in the center portion of the lane to
help the flow of traffic. This also increases the trucker's options
in case he or she must change lanes to avoid a hazard. Here are
some of the most common mistakes passenger vehicle drivers must avoid when
driving around large trucks.
Cutting off a truck in traffic or on the highway to reach your exit or turn.
Cutting into the open space in front of a truck is dangerous. Trying to beat a
truck to a single-lane construction zone, for example, removes the truck
driver's cushion of safety and places you in danger also. Slow down and take
your turn entering the construction zone. Don't speed up to pass a truck so
you can exit the roadway. Take a moment to slow down and exit behind a
truck it will only take you a few extra seconds.
Lingering alongside a truck when passing.Always pass a
large truck on the left side and after you have passed
the truck move ahead of it. If you linger beside the
truck, you make it very difficult, if not impossible, for
the trucker to take evasive action if an obstacle appears
in the road ahead.
Following too closely or tailgating. When you follow
behind a truck and you cannot see the truck driver's
rearview mirrors, the trucker has no way of knowing
you are there. Tailgating a truck, or any vehicle, is
dangerous because you take away your own cushion of
safety. Where will you go when the vehicle in front of
you stops quickly?
BLIND SPOTS
Passenger vehicle drivers falsely assume that a

trucker can see the road better because they are
higher off the road. While truckers do have a
better forward view and bigger mirrors, they still
have serious blind spots. Your vehicle can get
lost in those blind spots. If you stay in those
blind spots you block the trucker's ability to take
evasive action to avoid a dangerous situation.
Generally speaking, if you can't see the truck
driver in his or her side mirror, he or she can't see you. These blind spots are often
called the "NO ZONE."
BRAKING
Large trucks take longer to stop than a car traveling at the same speed. The
average passenger vehicle traveling at 55 mph can stop in about 225 feet (does not
include reaction time). However, a large truck traveling at the same speed can take
more than 400 feet to stop (does not include reaction time). Don't pull in front of a
large truck and suddenly slow down or stop. The trucker will not be able to stop
quickly enough to avoid crashing into you.
TURNING
For all turning vehicles, the rear wheels follow a shorter path than the front wheels.
The longer the vehicle, the greater the difference. This is why big rig drivers must
often swing out to the left as the first step in making a right turn . When you follow
a big rig, look at its turn signals before you start to pass. If you think the truck is
turning left wait a second and check the turn signals again. The driver may actually
be turning right.
SCHOOL BUSSES
You may come upon a school bus which is stopped and
flashing yellow lights. This is a warning for you to
prepare to stop because the children are preparing to
leave the bus.
When you come upon a school bus stopped on either
side of the road with flashing red lights, you must stop
immediately before passing the bus. The flashing red
lights are located at the top front and top back of the
bus. Schoolchildren will be crossing the road to or from
the school bus. Remain stopped as long as the red lights
are flashing. You may be fined a minimum of $150 for the first offense and up to
$1000 with your driving privilege suspended for one year after the third offense.
You need not stop if the bus is on the other side of a multiple-lane or divided
highway.
22454. Schoolbus: Meeting and Passing
New Law Since 2006

SB 731- Equipment of Vehicles- (Amendment to CVC 24602)
This bill amends the minimum height requirement for red fog tail lamps to not
lower than 12 inches (previously 15 inches) or higher than 60 inches.
NEW LAW SINCE 2007
CVC Section 21706.5 - Emergency Vehicles/Tow Trucks
Requires drivers to take specific precautionary actions on a highway when passing
a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck when the emergency lights are activated.
Drivers are directed to proceed with caution and to make a lane change into an
available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle or tow truck if
practicable and not prohibited by law. If the driver cannot make a safe lane change,
they are to slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing
conditions.
You must yield the right-of-way to a police car, fire engine,

ambulance, or other emergency vehicle(s) using a siren and red
light. Pull as close to the right edge of the road as possible and
stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. However, don't
stop in an intersection. Continue through the intersection and
then pull to the right as soon as you can. Sometimes emergency
vehicles will use the wrong side of the street to continue on
their way. They sometimes use a loud speaker to talk to drivers
blocking their path.
It is against the law to follow within 300 feet of any emergency
vehicle which is answering an emergency call. You may be arrested if you drive for
sightseeing purposes to the scene of a fire, collision, or other disaster. You could
interfere with the essential services of police, fire fighter, ambulance crews, or
other rescue or emergency personnel.
You must not drive over unprotected fire hoses.
NEW LAW SINCE 2005
CVC sections 21235 and 21226
A person is prohibited from operating a motorized scooter unless that person has a
valid class C drivers license or an instruction permit. A person is also prohibited
from altering or modifying the exhaust system of a motorized scooter in violation of
specified noise restrictions and muffler requirements.
NEW LAW FOR 2010
Extends Californias Slow and Move Over law to stationary, marked Department of
Transportation Vehicles displaying flashing amber warning lights.
All types of motor vehicles require licensing and registration.

(Certain exceptions as per the CVC). All must meet requirements
of equipment as specified by law.
A Class M license is required for motorcycles and scooters that
can go over 30 mph. Mopeds also require a license. Also covered
are electrically powered vehicles that weigh no more than 2500
pds. and reach a top speed of no more than 45 mph.
Auto drivers must be alert for motorcycles. The saddest and most common plea
is"But I didn't see him!" Though some cyclists bring on their own problems. Figures
show that 75% of all the collisions involving a motorcycle and a car are the fault of
the car. Do NOT cut off a biker, avoid left turns in front of them. Be careful,
courteous, and considerate.
They have a right to the road, too.
If you ride a motorcycle, there are precautions you can take to protect yourself:
Wear a helmet with a face shield, that meets DOT standards. Riders and passengers
must wear helmets. Wear proper clothing: All professionals wear protective gear;
Boots that cover the ankles; Full-length leather or other sturdy pants or chaps;
Leather or other sturdy jackets or sturdy, long-sleeved shirts; Gloves; Bright colors
and reflective tape.
Ride defensively. Use extreme caution in rounding curves and in times of low
visibility. Stay out of car and truck blind spots. (Extremely important if you are
"lane-splitting" on a freeway and vital if autos and trucks on the freeway are
caught in heavy stop-and-go traffic. Drivers, lulled by their own slow speed, might
not be as alert for a motorcycle "between lanes," moving appreciably faster than
they are. A frustrated automobile driver lurching from one lane to another to gain a
car length advantage has made a mistake in not noticing a motorcycle off his rear
fender, but it's the cyclist who will wind up on the asphalt.
Drive with extreme caution. Always ride as if no one else on the road can see you.
You may be good, but you're not the only driver out there.
Motorcycles must have lights on at all times, adds to visibility. Oscillating beam
headlights are legal in daylight driving.
New riders under 18 must complete an approved motorcycle course. More
experienced and older riders may also want to take a course, teaching advanced
riding skills and strategies, and which may secure discounts on insurance.
Bicycle riders on public streets have the same rights and

responsibilities as automobile drivers. Drivers of motor
vehicles must treat bicycle riders the same as drivers of other
motor vehicles. Bicyclists are not out of place on the roadway
they are part of the traffic and share the road with other
drivers. They must obey stop signs, traffic lights, and most
other traffic laws and signs. Special care must be used near
them because any collision with them will probably result in
serious injury. This means that automobile drivers must leave
safe passing room and must not turn so close to them that the bicyclist is in danger
of being hit.
Many of the same things apply to bicycles as to motorcycles. 50% of all bicycle
collisions occur to children. As of 1/1/94, ANSI/Snell approved safety helmets are
required for all persons under 18. Bikes have the same responsibilities as autos.
They also have the same rights as other traffic. Use proper signals as shown by the
DMV. Ride with traffic, not against it. If using a crosswalk, dismount then walk
through. Watch out for parked cars and be alert for indication they may be pulling
out, (since you are generally on the extreme right, closest to parked cars). Bike
drivers must watch carefully when making turns or changing lanes.
Although bicyclists will
normally ride near the right
hand curb or edge of the
roadway, they can legally
move left to turn left, to
pass another vehicle or
bicycle, or to avoid debris or
parked cars. They may have
to swerve to avoid a car
door suddenly opening.
Expect any of these moves
by bicyclists in a main traffic
lane. Remember, on oneway streets, this can be the
left hand lane.
Bicycle operators and
passenger, under 18 years
of age, (including children in
attached bicycle seats or in towed trailers) shall wear a properly fitted and fastened
bicycle helmet. This helmet must be labeled to show that it meets applicable safety
standards. Violation of this law is punishable by a fine.
When the lane is too narrow to pass a bicyclist safely, wait until the next lane is
clear and give the bicyclist all the rights of any other slow moving vehicle.
A motorist parked at a curb must not open a door on the traffic side of a vehicle
without looking for other vehicles, including bicycles or motorcycles.
Bicycle riders may give right turn signals with their right arm held straight out,
pointing right. Remember, bicycles are small and sometimes drivers do not see
them.
NEW LAW FOR 2010
Provides an exemption to the prohibition of allowing a person from operating a
bicycle on a highway that does not have a seat, if the bicycle is specifically designed
by the manufacturer to be ridden without a seat.
Remember: Pedestrian safety is a serious issue. One in six

traffic fatalities is a pedestrian. Pedestrians lose in any
collision, regardless of who had the right-of-way. Drive
cautiously when pedestrians are near and may cross your
path.
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at corners, whether or not
the crosswalks are marked by painted white lines.
Stop for the safety of anyone crossing the street on foot. Do
not pass a vehicle from behind that has stopped at a
crosswalk. A pedestrian hidden from your view may be
crossing.
Do not drive on a sidewalk, except to cross it at a driveway or alley. When crossing,
yield to any pedestrian.
Pedestrians using dog guides or white canes with or without a red tip must be
given the right-of-way at all times. These pedestrians are partially or totally blind
so be especially careful when turning corners or backing up.
ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PEDESTRIANS
A car traveling 5 miles an hour can be just as dangerous as one traveling at 50
miles an hour. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep these
basic rules on hand.
When crossing on a roadway where there are no intersections or marked
crosswalks, the pedestrian must yield right-of-way to vehicles. The law says that
any driver must take care for the safety of a pedestrian; the pedestrian must not
step into a vehicle's path even if he or she is stepping into a crosswalk. Where
there are no sidewalks, the pedestrian must move in a direction facing traffic. This
is to increase visibility for both pedestrian and driver. Keep alert to "walk" and
"don't walk" signs because they are the law and will save your life.
ROAD WORKERS
Workers who must be on highways try hard to warn you of their presence by using
orange signs, equipment, flags, and jackets. It's up to you to ensure both your own
and the workers' safety by driving slowly through work areas. THE HIGHWAY
WORKER'S LIFE IS IN YOUR HANDS.
Vehicles used to maintain the highways, like bulldozers, often move slowly on or
next to the road. They are painted orange. Be prepared to slow down or stop for
them. When you see orange equipment on the road, people on foot are often
working nearby.
One or more lanes may be closed when road work is
going on. Orange signs warn you that you must be
prepared for people and slow moving equipment on the
road. Signs will tell you which lanes are closed. A line of
orange cones will show you the closed lane. Do not cross
the line of cones. Sometimes a flashing arrow will tell
you to move left or right. BE CAREFUL! Make your lane
change early and safely.
Don't stop or slow down to watch road work. Keep going.
Obey any special signs or instructions as you pass. NOTE:
Fines are doubled for certain violations committed in
highway construction or maintenance zones when
workers are present and/or traffic is regulated or restricted by Caltrans or local
authorities.
NEW LAW FOR 2010
Amends Penal Code Sections 241.5 & 243.65
Expands the definition of a highway worker to include employees of a city, county,
or city and county who perform specified activities related to local streets and
roads. Additionally, this law includes in the definition of a highway worker,
employees of a contractor while working under contract with the Department of
Transportation, contractors and employees of contractors while working under
contract with a city, county, or city and county, and volunteers.
ANIMALS OR OTHER OBJECTS IN THE ROAD
If you see animals or another large object , slow
down. Obey the person in charge of the animals. If
you see a stray animal in your path, slow down or
stop, if it is safe to do so.
Look at the pictures below. Suppose there is only
one oncoming car to the left
and a child on a bike to the
right. Instead of driving between the car
and the child, take them one at a time.
Slow down and let the car pass. Then,
move to the left to allow plenty of room
before you pass the child.
Sometimes there will be dangers on both
sides of the road. For example, there may
be parked cars to the right and oncoming
cars to the left. In this case, the best
thing to do is "split the difference." Steer
a middle course between the oncoming
cars and the parked cars.
If one danger is greater than the other,
give the most room to the worst danger.
Suppose there are oncoming cars to the
left of you and a child on a bike to the
right. The child is most likely to make a sudden move. Therefore, give him or her a
lot of room. It may mean moving closer to the oncoming cars.
REMEMBER: Trees, bushes, buildings, or parked vehicles at intersections can block
your view of vehicles coming from the side.
DEALING WITH "ROAD RAGE"
Road rage is everyone's problem. Simply put, "road rage" means driving angry.
"Road rage" could mean disaster. What ever you have to do to calm your nerves,
avoid driving when you are upset, it dramatically decreases your good judgment
ability. Road rage happens when one driver reacts angrily to another driver. This
type of behavior can come in many forms, for instance, angry drivers can lash out
by deliberately braking suddenly, pulling close to another car, or even taking more
violent steps such as coercing a driver to pull over and "settle" the dispute. This
can be just as dangerous as driving drunk.
HOW TO AVOID INVOLVEMENT IN AN AGGRESSIVE DRIVING SITUATION
When confronted with an angry or aggressive driver, it is a good idea to move out
of the way. Provoking an argument will probably spell disaster. So, to avoid such a
situation, put as much distance between your vehicle and the other car as possible.
Rules for avoiding possible conflicts with other drivers:
Don't cut off other drivers - When you merge, make sure you have enough room,
and always signal before you merge.
Don't drive slowly in the left lane - Avoid using the fast lane except for the brief
time it takes to pass another driver. Driving slowly in the fast lane frustrates other
drivers.
Don't Tailgate - Many drivers get angry when they are followed too closely.
Remember to keep the appropriate following distance between you and the car
ahead of you.
Don't signal gestures to other drivers - Keep your hands on the steering wheel.
Making obscene gestures to other drivers may provoke him or her.
Avoid eye contact with an angry driver - To some people, eye contact is the same as
a challenge. If someone is determined to act out his or her frustrations, even a
friendly smile can be misinterpreted.
If you utilize the defensive driving techniques that have been taught to you
throughout this course, you will be prepared to handle any hostile driving situation
that may come your way.
CELL PHONE SAFETY
Everywhere you look, everywhere you go, there are cell phones. Regardless of what
you think about them, in an emergency situation, they can be a lifesaver. Even in a
non-emergency they can be a great tool if the cell phone is used in a safe and
responsible manner. But, cell phones can also be distracting and result in poor
driving habits.
Here are some guidelines for cell phone safety:
If you are under the age of 18, you cannot use a cell phone while driving.
Even if you have a hands-free device available, it is against the law for you to
use a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.
Pull over to the side of the road to use your cellular telephone. This is the
safest precaution you can take.
Know your cellular telephone. Get know your phone and its many features
such as speed dial and redial. Take advantage of these features so you won't
take your attention off of the road.
Use hand free devices. You must use a hands free device as it is required by
law. Two hands on the steering wheel are always safer than one.
Your phone should be within easy reach. If your phone is within reach you
can grab it without taking your eyes off of the road.
Don't use the telephone during hazardous conditions. If your driving
conditions are hazardous (heavy traffic, hazardous weather conditions, etc.),
tell the person you are talking to that you are driving and will call back.
Remember, your first responsibility is to pay attention to the road.
Pay attention to the road. While you are driving, don't take notes or look up
phone numbers and especially NO TEXTING. It is against the law to text and
drive. If you are busy doing things, you are not paying attention to your
driving.
Be sensible about dialing. If possible, place your calls when you are not
moving or before pulling into traffic. However, if you need to dial while
driving, dial only a few numbers at a time and check traffic and your mirrors
in between. Then continue dialing.
Don't engage in distracting conversations. Stressful or emotional
conversations don't mix with safe driving. This combination can be
dangerous because you are not paying attention to your driving. Tell the
person you are talking with that you are driving and will call back. Be safe!
Use your phone to call for help. Dial 9-1-1 for emergency help. This is a free
call on your cellular phone. For other non-emergency situations (brokendown vehicle, broken traffic signal, etc.), call roadside assistance or other
special non-emergency wireless number.
If you look over at the driver next to you and you see that they have a cell phone,
make sure you increase the distance between his/her car and yours. Cell phone
users can react erratically, from inattention or distraction.
He or she may react to your braking signal slowly, and can easily rear-end your car.
If possible, brake mildly, or move into the other lane instead of braking.
NEW LAW SINCE 2007
CVC Section 12810.3 - Cell Phones
Prohibits a person from driving a vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless
the person uses a system that allows hands-free listening and speaking. This begins
July 1, 2008.
NEW LAW SINCE 2008
CVC sections 12810.3 and 23123
This law prohibits a person who is under the age of 18 years from operating a
motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone, even when equipped with a handsfree device, or while using a mobile service device. The law provides an exemption
for the use of wireless telephones or mobile service devices for emergency
purposes. This begins on July 1, 2008. CVC 23124
(a)
This section applies to a person under the age of 18 years.
(b)
Notwithstanding Section 23123, a person described in

subdivision (a) shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a
wireless telephone, even if equipped with a handsfree device,
or while using a mobile service device.
(c)
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a bas

fine of twenty dollars ($20) for a first offense and fifty dollars
($50) for each subsequent offense.
(d)
A law enforcement officer shall not stop a vehicle for the sole
purpose of determining whether the driver is violating
subdivision (b).
(e)
Subdivision (d) does not prohibit a law enforcement officer

from stopping a vehicle for a violation of section 23123.
(f)
This section does not apply to a person using a wireless

telephone or mobile service device for emergency purposes,
including, but not limited to, an emergency call to a law
enforcement agency, health care provider, fire department, or
other emergency services agency or entity.
(g)
For the purposes of this section, mobile service device

includes, but is not limited to, a broadbrand personal
communication device, specialized mobile radio device,
handheld device or laptop computer with mobile data access,
pager, and two-way messaging device.
(h)
This section shall become operative on July 1, 2008.
NEW SINCE 2009

No text Law Goes Into Effect January 1, 2009
From SB 28 CVC section 23123.5 Starting January 1, 2009 a new law will go into
effect where writing, sending, or reading a text-based communication while driving
will be against the law for all drivers in California. This new law applies to
electronic wireless communications devices used to manually communicate with
any person using text-based communication, including, but not limited to,
communications referred to as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail.
Violating this law is punishable by a base fine of $20 for a first offense and $50 for
each subsequent offense. With the addition of penalty assessments, fines can be
more than triple the base fine amount.
PHOTO-ENFORCEMENT SYSTEMS
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, approximately 40 percent of
motor vehicle crashes occur at intersections or are "intersection-related."
Researchers have found that on a national basis, fatal motor vehicle crashes at
traffic signals increased 24 percent between 1992 and 1997.
Automated red light running photo-enforcement systems are an effective and
reliable tool in reducing the number of traffic signal violations. These systems
detect a motor vehicle that passes over two sets of wire loops under the pavement
after a traffic signal has turned red. These loops are connected to computers in
high-speed cameras. Typically, the cameras take two photographs of the violation,
one when the vehicle enters the intersection and the other while it is in the
intersection. The photographs are then reviewed by numerous experts, frequently
including law enforcement officials. In most states with the systems, citations are
mailed to the registered owner of the car who is able to challenge the citation if he
or she was not the driver at the time of the infraction.
RED LIGHT RUNNING FACTS
An estimated 260,000 crashes are caused by red light runners each year.
Approximately 750 of these crashes are fatal. (Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety, 1999)
According to a survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation
and the American Trauma Society, 63 percent of Americans see someone
running a red light at least a few times a week and, at most, once a day.
A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
found that at a busy intersection in California, a motorist ran a red light every
12 minutes. During peak commuting times a motorist ran a red light every
five minutes.
One in three Americans knows someone who has been injured, someone who
was killed, or both, because of a red light runner.
Nationally, fatal motor vehicle crashes at traffic signals increased 24 percent

between 1992 and 1997, compared to a 6 percent increase in all other types
of fatal crashes.
The objectives of red light running photo-enforcement systems are to stop
dangerous driving behaviors, reduce crashes, save lives, reduce injuries,
lower health care costs and respond to community concerns.
A violation rate reduction of more than 40 percent was documented in San
Francisco and Oxnard, California. Los Angeles County experienced a 92
percent drop in violations.
Some argue that photographs of a red light running incident violate a
motorist's privacy rights. However, by obtaining a driver license, an
individual agrees to abide by certain rules, one of which is to obey traffic
signals. The use of cameras is just one way to enforce this law.
The following are Two New Laws for 2002
1. Kaitlyn's Law: The purpose of this law is to help prevent injuries to, and the
death of, young children from the effects of being left alone in a motor
vehicle. This law states that a parent or legal guardian cannot leave a child
under the age of 6 years old or younger inside a motor vehicle without
supervision of a person who is 12 years of age or older under certain
conditions. These conditions are if there is a significant risk to the child's
safety and health or when the vehicle's engine is running or the key's are in
the ignition. This is punishable by a fine of $100.00.
2. Vehicle code 27315: This amended law states that no driver, when present in
a motor vehicle, may transport a child under the age of six or weighs 60
pounds or less without providing and properly securing the child in a child
passenger restraint system or safety belt meeting the applicable federal
motor vehicle safety standards. This is punishable by a fine of $100.00.
NEW FOR 2003
1. Amendment to California Vehicle Code section 16000 : Reporting a collision
to the DMV- When you are involved in a motor vehicle collision, you must
report it to the DMV within 10 days if; More than $750 in damage was done
to the property of any person. Anyone was injured (no matter how slightly)
or killed. Each driver is responsible for making a report to the DMV. The
driver's insurance agent, broker, or legal representative can also do this. The
CHP or police will not make this report for you. You must make this report,
whether you are at fault or not, even if the collision occurred on private
property. Submit the report on the California Traffic Accident Report form
(SR1). You can get this form from any DMV or CHP office, or download it from
the
DMV's
website. If you don't make this report, your driving privilege will be
suspended.
2. Amendment to California Vehicle Code section 21212: As of January 2003
California law requires all persons under 18 years of age to wear a properlyfitted and fastened bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle or riding upon a
bicycle as a passenger, operating a non-motorized scooter or skateboard,
wearing in-line or roller skates, or while riding upon a non-motorized scooter
or skateboard as a passenger.
NEW FOR 2004

Driver Education and Training- Amendment to CVC 12509
The minimum age for issuance of an instruction permit is 15 years, 6 months. The
Department, for good cause, may issue an instruction permit to any physically and
mentally qualified person who meets the following requirements and who applies to
the Department for an instruction permit: Is age 15 years and 6 months, or over
and has successfully completed an approved course in automobile driver education
and is taking driver training or is enrolled and participating in an integrated driver
education program.
Child Safety Restraints- Amendment to CVC 27360
Requires that a child who is required to be secured in a child safety seat (Under 6
years or under 60 pounds), be secured in the rear seat of the vehicle. A child is
allowed to be secured in the front seat of the vehicle if:
There is no rear seat
The rear seats are side facing jump seats
The rear seats are rear-facing seats
The restraint system cannot be installed properly in the rear seat
All rear seats are occupied by children under the age of 12 years
Medical reasons necessitate that the child not ride in the rear
A child may not ride in the front seat of a motor vehicle with an active passenger air
bag if they are under one year of age, weigh less than 20 pounds, or riding in a
rear-facing child passenger restraint system.
SB 1055- DMV Fee Increases
Increases several fees and penalties paid to the DMV. The fees were increased to
stave off a shortfall in the Motor Vehicle Account (MVA). The MVA is largely funded
from constitutionally protected revenue derived from motorist fees and is used to
support the California Highway Patrol and the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Fee increases include:
Old
Fee
New Fee
Drivers License (5-year)
$24
$27
Duplicate license
$19
$21
Non-operation fee
$15
$17
Vehicle Registration
$28
$31
$9
$10
Salvage Certificate
$15
$17
Identification Card
$20
CHP-Fees-(paid
w/registration)
AB 1625- Amendment to CVC 27315 (d)- Seat Belts
$27
(*except free for
seniors)
Allows penalty assessments and court costs to be added to maximum $20 or $50
fine imposed on first and subsequent seat belt violations, this raising the maximum
amount of the fine that may be imposed.
NEW FOR 2005
CVC section 24400 - Required usage of headlights
Windshield Wipers On = Headlights On - every motor vehicle, other than a
motorcycle, be operated with headlamps whenever weather conditions prevent a
driver from clearly discerning a person or other motor vehicle on the highway from
a distance of 1000 feet, or when driving in conditions that require windshield
wipers to be in continuous use.
CVC sections 21235 and (add 21226) to reflect the following
A person is prohibited from operating a motorized scooter unless that person has a
valid class C drivers license or an instruction permit. A person is also prohibited
from altering or modifying the exhaust system of a motorized scooter in violation of
specified noise restrictions and muffler requirements.
CVC section 4000.38 - Financial responsibility
Effective January 2006, the DMV no longer has the choice of canceling the
registration of any vehicle when it is determined that the vehicle is not covered by a
valid form of financial responsibility, but instead the DMV is mandated to cancel the
registration by law. Additionally, the DMV may charge a reinstatement fee to cover
the cost of reinstating the registration after cancellation.
NEW FOR 2006
1. SB 719- Evading a Peace Officer
This bill enhances the penalty for evading a peace officer from imprisonment in the
county jail for not more than six months to not more than one year. In addition, it
also enhances the penalty for anybody who causes bodily injury while evading a
peace officer to a minimum of; 3, 5 or 7 years in the state prison and 4, 6 or 10
years should they cause a death.
2. AB 1474- Provisional Licenses (Amendment to CVC 12814.6)
This bill extends the provisional licensing restriction on nighttime driving to 11:00
p.m. It also extends the current six month passenger restriction to one year from
date of license issuance.
3. AB 979- DUI: Suspension and Revocation of License (Amendment to CVC 13352)
This bill provides that a person convicted of multiple DUIs within 10 years of a
prior conviction, can have his or her privilege reinstated, if he or she shows proof of
completing the initial 12 months of either the 18-month or 30-month drinking
driver treatment program, installs an ignition interlock device, and establishes
proof of financial liability.
4. AB 1353- Sentencing for Driving While Under the Influence (Amendments to CVC
23538 and 23556)
This bill increases the duration of alcohol treatment programs after a first DUI
conviction, where probation is granted from 6 months to 9 months and the required
program activity hours from 45 hours to 60 hours when the blood alcohol content
(BAC) is 20% or greater, or the subject refuses a chemical test.
5. SB 731- Equipment of Vehicles- (Amendment to CVC 24602)
This bill amends the minimum height requirement for red fog tail lamps to not
lower than 12 inches (previously 15 inches) or higher than 60 inches.
NEW FOR 2007
CVC Section 12810.3 - Cell Phones
Prohibits a person from driving a vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless
the person uses a system that allows hands-free listening and speaking. This begins
July 1, 2008.
CVC Section 21706.5 - Emergency Vehicles/Tow Trucks
Requires drivers to take specific precautionary actions on a highway when passing

a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck when the emergency lights are activated.
Drivers are directed to proceed with caution and to make a lane change into an
available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle or tow truck if
practicable and not prohibited by law. If the driver cannot make a safe lane change,
they are to slow to a reasonable and prudent speed that is safe for existing
conditions.
CVC Section 21712 - Trunking
States it is a misdemeanor violation for any driver to knowingly permit a person to
ride in the trunk of a vehicle. Additionally, any passenger found guilty of riding in
the trunk is guilty of an infraction.
CVC Section 15300 - Commercial Drivers
States that a driver of a commercial vehicle may not operate a commercial motor
vehicle for one year for the first conviction of specified offences, including DUI, hit
and run or vehicular manslaughter, while driving any vehicle, not just a commercial
vehicle. CVC 15302 provides for permanent disqualification of a commercial driver
for two or more convictions of specified offenses, while driving any vehicle.
CVC Section 15215 - Commercial Drivers Conviction Reporting
Requires the DMV to report each conviction occurring within California of a person
holding a commercial driver's license from another state to the licensing authority
of the home state of the licensee.
CVC Section 23536 - DUI- Penalty, First Conviction
Has been amended to increase the mandatory driver's license suspension period to
ten months for persons convicted of a first offense of DUI if the individual's blood
alcohol concentration level was .20% or greater
New for 2008
CVC sections 12810.3 and 23123
This law prohibits a person who is under the age of 18 years from operating a
motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone, even when equipped with a handsfree device, or while using a mobile service device. The law provides an exemption
for the use of wireless telephones or mobile service devices for emergency
purposes. This begins on July 1, 2008. CVC 23124
(a)
This section applies to a person under the age of 18 years.
(b)
Notwithstanding Section 23123, a person described in

subdivision (a) shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a
wireless telephone, even if equipped with a handsfree device,
or while using a mobile service device.
(c)
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a bas

fine of twenty dollars ($20) for a first offense and fifty dollars
($50) for each subsequent offense.
(d)
A law enforcement officer shall not stop a vehicle for the sole
purpose of determining whether the driver is violating
subdivision (b).
(e)
Subdivision (d) does not prohibit a law enforcement officer

from stopping a vehicle for a violation of section 23123.
(f)
This section does not apply to a person using a wireless

telephone or mobile service device for emergency purposes,
including, but not limited to, an emergency call to a law
enforcement agency, health care provider, fire department, or

other emergency services agency or entity.
(g)
For the purposes of this section, mobile service device

includes, but is not limited to, a broadbrand personal
communication device, specialized mobile radio device,
handheld device or laptop computer with mobile data access,
pager, and two-way messaging device.
(h)
This section shall become operative on July 1, 2008.
Vehicle Code Section 12814.6 and Health and Safety Code 118947
This bill makes it an infraction for a person to smoke a cigarette, pipe, or cigar in a
motor vehicle when a minor is present in the vehicle. The law applies whether the
vehicle is at rest or in motion, is secondary enforcement and punishable by a fine
not exceeding $100.
Health and Safety Code 118947
This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the Marco Firebaugh Memorial
Children's Health and Safety Act of 2007.
Section 118948 of the Health and Safety Code:
It is unlawful for a person to smoke a pipe, cigar, or cigarette
(a)
in a motor vehicle whether in motion or at rest, in which there
is a minor.
(b)
For the purposes of this section, to smoke means to have in

one's immediate possession a lighted pipe, cigar, or cigarette
containing tobacco or any other plant.
(c)
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a fine

not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100) for each violation.
Section 118949
A law enforcement officer shall not stop a vehicle for the sole purpose of
determining whether the driver is in violation of this article.
New for 2009
No-text Law Goes Into Effect January 1, 2009
From SB 28 CVC section 23123.5
Starting January 1, 2009 a new law will go into effect where writing, sending, or
reading a text-based communication while driving will be against the law for all
drivers in California.
This new law applies to electronic wireless communications devices used to
manually communicate with any person using text-based communication, including,
but not limited to, communications referred to as a text message, instant message,
or electronic mail. Violating this law is punishable by a base fine of $20 for a first
offense and $50 for each subsequent offense. With the addition of penalty
assessments, fines can be more than triple the base fine amount.
Disabled Parking Operative January 1, 2008
Amend: Government Code 14679 Amend: Vehicle Code 22511.59, 22511.8,
42001.13
Add: Vehicle Code 22511.95 (AB 1531 Chapter 413)
Limits the maximum consecutive number of times a person can renew a
temporary disability parking placard.
Increases fines for second and third violations related to illegal parking in
disabled spaces.
Alters signage and painting requirements for disabled parking spaces of
buildings constructed or renovated on or after July 1, 2008.
Driving Under the Influence Repeated Offense Operative January 1, 2009
Amend and Add: Vehicle Code 13353.1, 13353.2, 22651, 42009, 422010, 13389,
and 23154 (AB 1165 Chapter 749)
Makes it unlawful for a person who is on probation for a driving-under-theinfluence offense to operate a motor vehicle at any time with a blood-alcohol
concentration of 0.01 percent or greater.
Imposes an admin per se driver license suspension on persons found to
violate this prohibition.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol While on Probation for Prior DUI
23154. (a) It is unlawful for a person who is on probation for a violation of Section
23152 or 23153 to operate a motor vehicle at any time with a blood-alcohol
screening test or other chemical test.
(b) A person may be found to be in violation of subdivision (a) if the person was, at
the time of driving, on probation for a violation of Section 23152 or 23153, and the
trier of fact finds that the person had consumed an alcoholic beverage and was
driving a vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.01 percent or greater, as
measured by a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical test.
(c) (1) A person who is on probation for a violation of Section 23152 or 23153 who
drives a motor vehicle is deemed to have given his or her consent to a preliminary
alcohol screening test or other chemical test for the purpose of determining the
presence of alcohol in the person, if lawfully detained for an alleged violation of
subdivision (a).
(2) The testing shall be incidental to a lawful detention and administered at the
direction of a peace officer having reasonable cause to believe the person is driving
a motor vehicle in violation of subdivision (a).
(3) The person shall be told that his or her failure to submit to, or the failure to
complete, a preliminary alcohol screening test or other chemical test as requested
will result in the suspension or revocation of the persons privilege to operate a
motor vehicle for a period of one year to three years, as provided in Section
13353.1.
Added Sec. 5, Ch. 749, Stats. 2007. Effective January 1, 2008. Operative
January 1, 2009.
Required Declaration on an Original or Renewal Application for a Driver License
Operative July 1, 2008
Adds Penal Code Sections 241.5 & 243.65
This new law provides an increased penalty for assault and battery crimes
committed against highway workers engaged in the performance of his or
her duties.
241.5. (a) When an assault is committed against a highway worker engaged in the
performance of his or her duties and the person committing the offense knows or
reasonably should know that the victim is a highway worker engaged in the
performance of his or her duties, the offense shall be punishable by a fine not to
exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000) or by imprisonment in a county jail up to one
year or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(b) As used in this section, "highway worker" means an employee or contractor of
the Department of Transportation who does one or more of the following:
(1) Performs maintenance, repair, or construction of state highway infrastructures
and associated rights-of-way in highway work zones.
(2) Operates equipment on state highway infrastructures and associated rights-ofway in highway work zones.
(3) Performs any related maintenance work, as required, on state highway
infrastructures in highway work zones.

243.65. (a) When a battery is committed against the person of a highway worker
engaged in the performance of his or her duties and the person committing the
offense knows or reasonably should know that the victim is a highway worker
engaged in the performance of his or her duties, the offense shall be punished by a
fine not exceeding two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by imprisonment in a county
jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(b) As used in this section, "highway worker" means an employee or contractor of
the Department of Transportation who does one or more of the following:
(1) Performs maintenance, repair, or construction of state highway infrastructures
and associated rights-of-way in highway work zones.
(2) Operates equipment on state highway infrastructures and associated rights-ofway in highway work zones.
(3) Performs any related maintenance work, as required, on state highway
infrastructures in highway work zones.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Amends Vehicle Code SB 1190, Sections 23575 & 23575.1
Reduces the threshold of the blood alcohol content that triggers the
requirement for the court to give heightened consideration for the
installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a first time offender
convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of an alcoholic beverage from .
20 percent to .15 percent or more at the time of arrest. This law also
authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to study the effectiveness of
IDs to reduce the recidivism rate of first time DUI offenders and report their
findings to the Legislature.
NEW LAW FOR 2010
FEE CHANGES
Makes technical corrections to Vehicle Code provisions subjecting various DMV fees
to annual Consumer Price Index adjustments to eliminate a disparity in the fees for
renewal of commercial driver licenses renewed by mail as opposed to in person
renewals. Adds the fees for special firefighter equipment driver licenses to those
subject to CPI adjustments.
Operative July 28, 2010.
* Includes $1 CPI adjustment.
OLD
FEE
NEW
FEE
Driver's License (Class C or M)
$28
$31*
Renewal License (Class C or M)
$28
$31*
Duplicate License (Class C or M)
$22
$25*
Firefighter
License
$34
$39
$27
$29
Equipment
Duplicate Firefighter License
Driver's
Identification Card
$20
$26
Commercial Driver's License (Class A

or B)
$64
$66
Commercial Renewal
$34
$39
Duplicate Commercial
$27
$29
Class C Commercial Driver's License
$34
$39
"Emergency Pull Over" Case Study #5

"Hi-fi" Freda loves her tunes. And in fact, she loves to drive her car to the highest
mountain and share her tunes with everyone that will listen. (Which isn't a lot of
people) Anyway, after hours of "sharing" it was time to head back down the
mountain on a one lane road. While going down the mountain she came across
another vehicle coming up the road. What happens now? Well, fast thinking Freda
knew exactly what to do. She knew that when two vehicles meet on a steep road
where neither can pass, the vehicle facing downhill must back up until the vehicle
going uphill can pass. Why? Because, the driver going downhill has the greater
amount of control when backing up. Freda did the right thing!
Now I can't tell you enough how much Freda loved her music. In fact, there's not a
single station Freda won't play on her amped up car stereo. The only time she
lowers the volume on her "music machine" is during the commercials. Luckily for
Freda, it was during the commercials when she heard the roar of a fire truck
zooming behind her with sirens screaming. What should Freda do in this situation?
Should she pull over to the right side of the road, to the left side of the road or just
keep driving and find a station that will over power those screeching sirens?
Freda should know that when an emergency vehicle is approaching with sirens or
lights in use, you have to pull over to the RIGHT. This lets the emergency vehicle
travel to their destination with ease.
You are now ready to take the ComedyTrafficSchool.COM Section 5 Quiz and Final
Test. The final is comprised of multiple choice questions, covering the material
throughout the entire courseGOOD LUCK!

Understanding Common Road Signs and Traffic Signal Meanings

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Understanding Common Road Signs and Traffic Signal Meanings

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Many road signs warn you to slow down or watch for hazards ahead.

There is a traffic signal ahead.

There is another lane of traffic merging with

There is a pedestrian crosswalk ahead and

The right lane ends ahead.

You may turn left when the light is green.

Obedience to Traffic Control Signals

Lane Use Control Signals

RED ARROW - A red arrow means "STOP"

FLASHING RED - A flashing red signal light

21453. Circular Red or Red Arrow

FLASHING YELLOW - A flashing yellow signal

21457. Flashing Signals

21452. Circular Yellow or Yellow

GREEN - A green light means "GO," but first

GREEN ARROW - A green arrow means "GO,"

Circular Red or Red Arrow

Many street crossings have pedestrian

When the "DON'T WALK" or "RAISED

Signal at Other Places

22450. Stop Requirements

The DO NOT ENTER sign tells you there is danger ahead

The WRONG WAY sign may be with the DO NOT ENTER

WHAT DOES THE SHAPE OF EACH SIGN MEAN?

Round - Railroad Crossing

Vertical Rectangle - Regulatory

No parking, stopping or standing.

Loading zone. Only to pick up, unload passengers,

Stopping only long enough to pick up or drop off

Limited time parking only.

Vehicle belonging to handicapped person. Must have

(4) Green indicates time limit parking specified by local ordinance.

NEAR RAILROAD TRACKS:

If there is a tollbooth ahead, a driver will be warned by posted signs. He or she

An uncontrolled intersection, however, has no indicators of any kind to control the

Two sets of double lines - indicates NO Passing or Turning and function as a

Left Turn Center Lane

Turning Movements and Required Signals

DESIGNATED LANES AND SPEEDS FOR SPECIAL VEHICLES

Overtake and Pass to Left

There are a few instances when passing on the right is permitted:

When the left half of the road is blocked.

Passing on the Right

Pass on Right Safely

Passing Without Sufficient Clearance

operation of any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction.

BEING PASSED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE

Yielding for Passing

When Driving on Left Prohibited

Turning Upon a Highway

We keep mentioning "only when it is safe to do so" because there is a

Turning Across Bicycle Lane

U-Turn at Controlled Intersection

"FLASHING RED" Case Study #1

Mental/Physical: Try to avoid driving when upset or excited. It dramatically

Basic Speed Law

Minimum Speed Law

Prima Facie Speed Limits

(2) Twenty-five miles per hour:

SPEED LIMITS FOR DESIGNATED AREAS

Excessive Speed and Designated Lane Use

truck with three or more axles