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Several new driving laws took effect in California on January 1, 2009 that every motorist should know about. If you have any questions about any California law, new or old, please contact an attorney from The Kavinoky Law Firm at 1.877.466.2833 for additional information.
One of the most prominent new California laws is the ban on text-messaging. As of January 1, it’s illegal to type or read electronic messages while driving. Like the law that requires the use of hands-free cell phones while behind the wheel, the new prohibition on text-messaging is punishable with a $20 fine for a first offense and a $50 fine for a second offense. However, California’s “penalty assessment” means that your total fine will be substantially higher.
It’s important to keep in mind that violating California’s ban on text-messaging provides police with probable cause to stop your vehicle, which can lead to more serious charges. Many drivers have found themselves facing DUI charges or other serious offenses after being pulled over for a relatively minor violation.
Drivers who are on probation for a California DUI conviction face a new “zero tolerance” law that prohibits them from driving with any alcohol at all in their systems. Under the new law, drivers on probation for a prior DUI conviction who have any measurable amount of alcohol in their systems will have their driver’s licenses suspended.
Another new California law affects how judges order ignition interlock devices, or IIDs, in drunk driving cases. In the past, judges were required to give "heightened consideration" to ordering an IID in California DUI cases where the driver had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .20 percent or greater. The new law lowers the threshold to .15 percent.
Starting in July 2009, motorists caught driving with a license suspended from a prior DUI conviction will also be required to install and use an IID. Authority over mandatory use of ignition interlock devices will shift from the courts to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Yet another new California law will require drivers convicted of DUI or alcohol-related reckless driving – also called “wet-reckless” – to complete a nine-month alcohol-education program if they’ve been convicted of another DUI or wet-reckless offense within the past 10 years.
Other new California laws include criminal penalties for forging Clean Air stickers, harsher repercussions against individuals who make unnecessary 911 calls, and changes in where GPS units can be mounted in your vehicle. In the past, mounting the unit on the windshield was against the law. Now drivers can mount the devices in a 7-inch square on the lower passenger side of the windshield or a 5-inch square on the lower corner of the driver’s side.
Staying informed of California’s new laws can ensure a trouble-free 2009. However, should you ever need a skilled California defense lawyer, the knowledgeable attorneys of The Kavinoky Law Firm are here to help. Please contact us at 1.877.466.2833 for a free consultation.
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