New Driving Laws for 2020

The California Highway Patrol released a list of new laws affecting California motorists in 2020. Some of these laws pertain to both drivers and bicyclists.

Bicyclists in California will now be permitted to travel straight through an intersection from a turning lane. The Assembly Bill, which was signed into law by Governor Newsom in September, will amend Vehicle Code Section 22101(e)(1) to read:

"A person operating a bicycle may travel straight through a right or left-hand turn only lane when an official traffic control device indicates that the movement is permitted."

As an example, here's what this means: If a bicyclist is riding in the right-hand lane and there is a sign that says "right turn only"--that bicyclist will not be forced to turn right. Instead, he or she can proceed straight through the intersection--provided that the intersection has signage that says "bicyclists OK" or something of similar import.

Another new law on the books for 2020 has to do with passenger marijuana consumption. In 2020 it is now illegal for passengers in a motor vehicle or public transportation like a bus to smoke or consume cannabis. This is particularly important, because California legalized cannabis in 2018. Drivers have always been barred from consuming marijuana while driving or while under the influence of marijuana. The new law makes it illegal for passengers to do the same, especially on public transportation.

Cheers to the new year, and to the beginning of a new decade!! Let's hope this decade will start to see a decrease in bicyclists and pedestrians injured in collisions with cars.

For questions about the new laws or to discuss your Los Angeles injury case, the Rabbi Lawyer is ready to assist, 24/6.