All Californians know that the state has some pretty strict driving laws. What many may not be aware of is the fact that some new driving laws just went into effect July 1st. These new laws seek to keep up with the ever changing modern world and help keep everyone on the road safe. That is something that everybody wants, because even though the law may not directly affect you, it can affect the other drivers around you, which can be beneficial.
First, there is SB 20, which is a law that applies to buses. This law basically states that anyone riding on a bus that has seat belts has to use the seatbelts. It is no longer optional. Furthermore, anyone between the ages of 8 and 16 must wear a seatbelt while riding on a bus. Anyone who breaks this law will face a fine. While this may be a bit bothersome to regular bus riders, it is a better alternative than getting flung around within the vehicle in an accident.
Next is AB 2657, which is directed at the drivers of vehicles transporting paying passengers. This includes Lyft and Uber drivers. This laws makes it illegal for a driver of a for hire vehicle to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .04%, which is higher than the normal average for normal drivers, who are allowed a BAC of .08%. Punishment for breaking this law will result in a suspension of the person’s driver’s license, and a disqualification of the person’s ability to get a commercial driver’s license.
Both of these new driving laws are aimed at keeping people safe, whether they are the passengers on a bus, or within an Uber or Lyft.