New Auto Safety Laws Go Into Effect in 2014

A number of new traffic safety laws in California are expected to roll in or go into effect in the year 2014.

At least one of those laws targets distracted driving. California’s distracted driving laws are already some of the toughest in the country, and make it illegal for persons to use a hand-held cell phone or text while driving. The new law makes it illegal for drivers below the age of 18 to use handheld cellphones or texting devices at the wheel.

That applies to the use of hands-free sets by motorists below the age of 18. It also includes the use of voice-activated communication systems that do not require a driver to use his or her hands to operate the cellphone. Basically, motorists in this category are now prohibited from using any type of cell phone at the wheel.

Burbank car accident lawyers believe that this is an important law, specifically targeting distracted driving in the below 18-age category. Teenagers are some of the heaviest users of smart phones, and also are at the highest risk for distracted driving.

Another law that is expected to go into effect in September 2014 is related to bicyclist safety. Effective September 16, 2014, motorists in California will be required to maintain a three-foot distance when they are passing by a bicyclist. The 3-foot law was passed in 2013, and is specifically aimed at helping keep bicyclists safe from taunting, and aggressive driving behaviors by motorists.

A motorist may sometimes taunt a bicyclist by driving too close, or in other cases, may simply ignore the need to maintain a safe distance from a bicyclist while passing by. Driving too close to a bicyclist increases the chances that the bicyclist will panic and fall off his bicycle. From September 2014, motorists will be required to maintain a minimum gap of 3 feet when they pass by a bicyclist.