Your last name doesn't have to be Griswold to realize that packing up the "family truckster" for a lengthy road trip can be a stressful experience. In addition to herding the kids, you have to worry about budgeting your time, your money, and thanks to high gas prices your fuel to ensure that you arrive at your destination with your sanity in tact. The last thing you need along the way is a costly ticket for failing to know the driving laws and traffic laws for the states through which you pass.
Accordingly, if you're planning to travel to or through the Golden State, this handy California Driving & Traffic Law Guide is for you. Hopefully, it will lessen your travel-related stress just a little as you head out on your next driving trip or vacation to California.
California Speed Limit
Speed limits vary in California based on location, terrain, and road conditions. In general, however, the maximum speed limit is 65 mph on California highways. Some highways have a lower maximum speed, so visitors would be well advised to monitor posted limits-especially approaching urban areas. The maximum speed limit on California urban streets is 25 mph, with the limit dropping lower within posted school zones (see http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/enforce/stspdlaw/caspeed.htm). Failure to abide by posted speed limits in and around California construction areas can result in double the standard fine.
Use of Radar Detectors in California
Federal law prohibits the use of radar detectors in commercial vehicles 10,000 pounds and higher. In California, radar detectors are permitted in all other vehicles.
California Cell Phone Law
California bans the use of cell phones by school and transit bus drivers. All other cell phone usage by drivers is permitted. For updates about California cell phone laws, see http://www.iihs.org/laws/cellphonelaws.aspx .
California Road Construction Information
The California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS) provides the state's best and most current information regarding California bridge and road construction projects (see http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/plannedwork.htm). Travelers across California may also receive up-to-the-minute traffic and travel conditions by calling 800-427-7623.
California Bicycle Laws
Many jurisdictions within California require riders 18 years of age and younger to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle. Riders operating between sunset and sunrise are required to have proper rear, red reflectors and forward-facing illumination. For more information on California's bike laws see http://www.dot.ca.gov/dist9/bicycle/Bike_Laws.html.
For more information about California driving laws and California traffic laws, please visit the California Department of Transportation website at http://www.dot.ca.gov.