CHP Calls Attention to Traffic Safety Law Changes in 2022

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) recently issued a press release about the latest changes to the state’s traffic safety laws. Motorists in California are being urged to familiarize themselves with the updated laws. Some of the new changes include definitions and penalties for sideshows, equestrian safety gear requirements, tribal emergency vehicle recognition and Class C towing requirements. Unless otherwise noted, the following traffic safety laws will take effect on January 1, 2022.  

Sideshow Definition and Penalties  

Starting July 1, 2025, a court will be able to suspend a person’s driver’s license if convicted of exhibition of speed if the violation occurred as part of a sideshow. A “sideshow” will be defined as an event in which two or more persons block or impede traffic on a highway for the purpose of performing motor vehicle stunts, speed contests, exhibitions of speed or reckless driving for spectators.  

Equestrian Safety Gear  

Assembly Bill 974 will require a person under the age of 18 to wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet when riding an equestrian animal, such as a horse, mule or donkey on a paved highway. The bill will also require all riders or equines to wear reflective gear or a lamp when riding after sundown. A person on an equestrian animal in a parade or festival, or crossing a paved highway from an unpaved highway is exempt from all helmet, lighting or reflective gear requirements.  

Tribal Emergency Vehicles 

Under this bill, any vehicle owned or operated by a federally recognized Indian tribe is considered an authorized emergency vehicle as derived by Section 165 CVC when responding to an emergency, fire, ambulance or lifesaving calls.  

Class C Driver’s License Changes  

Starting January 1, 2027, drivers with a class C driver’s license may operate a vehicle towing a trailer between 10,001 pounds and 15,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight with a fifth-wheel and kingpin or bed mounted gooseneck connection, provided that the trailer is used exclusively for recreational purposes for the transportation of property, living space or both.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a dangerous or distracted driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.