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New Driver Laws for Drivers in 2010: Drunk Driving Devices, Bicycles & TVs in Cars
Don't drive drunk | Photo by Renee Silverman via Flickr
Don't drive drunk | Photo by Renee Silverman via Flickr
As January 1st approaches, a slew of new laws will take effect, but not all: some laws, perhaps some of the most significant, begin July 1st, according to the California Highway Patrol. “The new laws are designed to make our roadways a safe place for motorists,” explained CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow in a statement.
Two of those mid-year laws deal with drunk driving, as noted on LAist back in October. AB 91, authored by local Assemblyman Mike Feuer, establishes an 8-year pilot program in four counties, including Los Angeles, where in order to reinstate driving privileges after a DUI conviction, one must "install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in any vehicle. The length of time the IID would be required to be installed in the person’s vehicle is based upon the number of DUI convictions and whether the offense was a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI."
Additionally, another law going into effect the same day deals with second and third time misdemeanor DUI offenders and how to obtain a restricted drivers license.
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Another law about TV distraction goes into effect this Friday. "This new law allows a person to drive a motor vehicle with a television receiver, video monitor, television or video screen, or any other similar means of visually displaying a television broadcast or video signal if the equipment is designed, operated and configured in a manner that prevents the driver of the motor vehicle from viewing the television broadcast or video signal while operating the vehicle in a safe and reasonable manner." Like with texting, watching TV would probably be more dangerous than drunk driving.
As for bicycles, SB 527 "allows a person to ride a bicycle without a seat if the bicycle was designed by the manufacturer to be ridden without a seat."
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
