The rules of the road are put in place to promote safety for all motorists and pedestrians. Each state and locality will have its own set of rules for different types of roads and environments that motorists and pedestrians must abide by. Knowing what rules exist and what is expected can not only keep motorists safe and minimize the risk of car accidents but also avoid costly fines and traffic citations for violations.
If you are a resident of the state of California or if you are just visiting the Golden State for business or pleasure, then knowing the laws is important. There are many different laws that govern driving in California, but there are five basic fundamental rules that everyone should be aware of.
The Costa Mesa car accident attorneys at Beckerman Anderson can help you if you were in a car accident in California. Car accidents can produce significant damage to victims, and securing maximum recovery after a crash is critical. The legal team at Beckerman Anderson knows the system and how to secure the most favorable results for injured victims.
California Car Accident Statistics
Car accidents are a regular daily occurrence in the state of California and across the country. In fact, in 2020, California had more fatal car accidents than any other state in the nation. Consider the following statistics:
- The Mileage Death Rate or deaths per 100 million miles traveled was 1.06 in 2019.
- More drivers that lost their lives in fatal crashes in 2019 who were tested for having drugs in their bodies were positive than were the drivers in 2018. Approximately 50% of these individuals had positive test results.
- In 2019 there were 3,606 fatal crashes.
- There were 1,066 deaths in 2019 from collisions where alcohol was a factor.
- There were 620 unrestrained passenger deaths in car accidents in 2109.
- There were 474 motorcycle fatalities in 2019.
- Out of all of the motorcycle fatalities in 2019, 28 did not have a helmet when the fatal crash happened.
- There were 164 teen motor vehicle deaths in 2019, and 83 of these deaths were teen drivers.
- There were 972 pedestrian fatalities in 2019.
- Bicycle fatalities totaled 133 in 2019.
Driver error, which could be the case with violations of the rules of the road, is the most common reason for crashes happening. Studies have shown that as high as 95-99% of all crashes reported each year happen as a result of driver mistakes. This shows that human error is a significant factor when examining traffic accidents, and, that most car crashes did not have to take place if more responsible driver action was present.
Laws All Drivers In California Should Know
Looking at the crash statistics, it is clear, crashes are prevalent in California, and the need for regulations and laws to improve safety are necessary. But, even though there are laws on the books, the laws can only work when drivers respect them and follow them. Part of being able to be a law-abiding and safe driver is knowing the rules.
Overall, there are similar driving expectations and laws that are used throughout the country. Not driving while intoxicated is one of them. Though, there are specific details and rules that can vary in different locations that drivers will benefit from knowing. If you are unaware of what laws apply to driving in California, it can be worth your time to check out the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles for more information and resources.
The following driving regulations in California are important to point out.
Lane Splitting
Due to their smaller size and ease of maneuverability, motorcycles have the capability to lane split. That is, driving between lanes of traffic. This is a risky move for motorcyclists as speed and timing are important. When done right and with caution, it can help a motorcyclist avoid being hit by another vehicle. If you are a motorcyclist driving in California, lane splitting was legalized in 2016. California Highway Patrol has more information on safety guidelines concerning lane splitting.
Seatbelts
It is well documented and known that seatbelts provide an extra layer of protection for occupants of a vehicle when a crash happens. Seatbelts can minimize the severity of injuries and save lives. The importance of wearing a seatbelt each and every time one is in a car can not be understated. California requires that drivers and every passenger in a vehicle wear seatbelts, with no exceptions.
Cell Phone Use and Driving
It is unlawful in California to drive and use your cell phone. So when driving, keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and keep your mobile device out of reach. The only caveats to this rule are if an emergency arises or if your device is hands-free.
Pedestrians
Crosswalks and designated walking areas for pedestrians must be respected by drivers. Meaning, if a pedestrian is crossing the street in one of these areas designed for pedestrians’ safe crossing, the pedestrian has the right-of-way.
School Buses
When a school bus puts on its lights to alert drivers it is stopping and that stop sign comes out from the side of the bus, all traffic in each direction must stop until the flashing lights are turned off and the stop sign pulled back in.
Speak to a California Personal Injury Attorney Today
Following laws set for driving helps to keep you, your passengers, and those around you safer. And, in an ideal world, all drivers would be responsible and abide by the rules of the road lessening the chances of an accident happening. However, the statistics show us that many drivers do not always adhere to the rules and there are drivers that engage in reckless, negligent behavior behind the wheel.
If you were harmed in a crash in California, you have rights and you may be able to obtain compensation for your losses. For more information on how to get the financial compensation you need, please call the California car accident lawyers at Beckerman Anderson to schedule a free consultation at (949) 474-2254.
