Special Laws That Regulate 5 Specific Types Of Vehicles In California

In the State of California, special laws regulate different types of automobiles. If you are thinking of starting your own automobile-based business you might want to start by opening an llc in california. Each type is subject to some specifically made laws and rules. If an injury occurs from a violation of these rules, it may tilt the case in favour of the injured party. Experienced Sacramento car accident lawyers believe knowledge of the laws is the first step to avoiding unnecessary penalties.

1.      Truck

The larger the truck is, the more special rules apply to it and its driver.

·         Large trucks are prohibited from driving on specific stretches of California highways.

·         Trucks can only use their particular lanes on highways.

·         For a tractor-trailer, it has to be marked, tethered, operated and maintained in a certain way according to the regulations.

·         Commercial trucks must pass state inspection standards.

·         Federal law determines how long a driver can drive a truck without a rest.

·         Commercial truck drivers require special licenses before they can drive unsupervised.

Violation of these statutes may help prove an injured person’s case. If the driver gets injured following regulations, he or she will have a great chance of winning the claim for damages. Please remember that the trucking company cannot escape repercussions in negligence or violation on the driver’s part.

2.      Taxicab

Taxicabs are the common urban carriers. They offer transportation services in exchange for a monetary reward. But that’s not all; the taxicab owner or company is also responsible for the safety of their passengers. That’s why they must exercise more caution than private automobile operators or owners. Even slight negligence or violation may invite trouble.

In addition to the customary laws, taxicabs owe their passengers reasonable surety of their safety. A taxi may not stop in the middle of the road to pick up or drop a passenger because that would violate the safety principle. Similarly, a taxi may not start the travel until the passenger is buckled, belted and safely seated.

The laws will almost always hold the taxi company responsible for the violation or negligence of the driver.

3.      Bus

Buses are common civilian carriers in California. Under the law, ensuring the safety of their passengers is their highest duty. The operator must allow passengers on or off the vehicle when it is safe to do so. They must not move the bus until the passengers get to their seat.

The operator must not close the doors when a passenger can be harmed. Some buses have an automatic mechanism that manages the door. Please remember that if a faulty mechanism harms a passenger, the bus company will answer the charges of negligent operations plus negligent maintenance. The negligence or violation of the driver will also implicate the bus company.

Bus drivers must also acquire special training and permits before driving a bus. These vehicles are difficult to navigate, and inexperience can be a costly thing.

4.      Motorcycles

There are a few exceptions, but essentially the same laws apply to motorcyclists as other motor vehicles in California.

·         Unlike other vehicles, they can pass between vehicles when stopping in traffic.

·         Motorcyclists must pass special tests to gain the necessary licenses.

·         Even if they are hard to spot, drivers must give them the same safety as larger vehicles.

·         California motorcyclists must wear helmets and have specific headlights.

It is easy to drive a motorbike rashly. That’s why it needs more careful handling than other vehicles.

5.      Bicycle

Bicycles are essentially motorbikes without the ‘motor’ part. That’s why the laws that govern them are similar.

·         Bicyclists must stop for reds, not make turns without a signal, and follow regular traffic laws, just like other motor vehicles.

·         They must keep close to the curb without hogging the sidewalk.

·         Use the bicycle lane when possible.

·         Use lights and reflectors when driving a bicycle at night.

·         A new bicycle must be sold with lights and reflectors installed according to the California Vehicle Code.

·         Any minor bicyclist must wear a helmet.

Bicyclists receive certain protections under California law, like automobiles must stay out of a bicycle lane except when the road is clear and making a turn.