Little Known Driving Rules of California

In earlier posts, I covered the driving laws of UK and New York. Lets move on to California now. Obviously common driving rules and laws are known to all and we have also covered a few (of other states & countries) in earlier posts. Now lets have a quick glance over the less common driving rules of California. Here are few little known driving laws of California stated under Driving and Traffic Laws.

Turning Upon a Highway

Section 22100.5 or 22101 of Driving Laws has clearly defined the rules of 'turning upon a highway'.

Section (a) states that while taking a right turn, upon a highway with 3 marked lanes, the driver should take a right turn into any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in that direction upon the roadway being entered. For more details on Driving Laws, read traffic laws.

Traffic Laws Regarding Signals -

One Should Give a Signal When Stopping – Section 22109 states that no person should suddenly reduce the speed of vehicle or stop while driving without giving an appropriate indication.

Hand Signals While Driving – Any kind of signal given by hand should always be given from the left side of the vehicle. Few hand signals are as follows:

For a Left turn – The driver should extend his hand and arm horizontally beyond the side of vehicle.

For a Right Turn – Driver's hand and arm should be extended upward beyond the side of vehicle.

Hand Signal While Stopping – It is a driving rule in California to indicate stopping of vehicle with hand & arm extended beyond the side of vehicle. that means if you are using your automotive braking system suddenly, you need tto give a clear indication to others on road.

Sudden Decrease of Speed – Even for sudden decrease of speed of a vehicle, the driver should give the signal with his hand & arm extended downward beyond the side of vehicle.

Slowdown While Driving Near Schools or Senior Centers

Section 22358.4. (a) (1) states that it is a one should slow down her/ his vehicle near a school or a senior center. The rule states that one should drive at a speed limit of 15 miles per hour near specified areas. So, just get your brake pads checked before you are trying to drive down near a school or senior center.

Talking about Road laws or Driving laws, there are also some duties specified for those driving on road.

Stop at A Scene of Accident – Californian government has defined under section 20001 (a) that it is a driver's duty to stop at the scene of accident if he is involved in an accident causing injuries to someone. Incase of accidents, one should stop and then fulfill the requirements of Sections 20003 and 20004.

Violation of Law If One Flees the Scene of Crime – It s a violation of Section 191.5, if someone flees the scene and will be subject to be punished by an additional term of imprisonment of five years in state prison.