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.

Don't Sleep While Driving

It's winter and you definitely feel more sleepy these days. And during those driving hours every morning with heavy traffic on the road and your vehicle at times moving at snail speed, it is very natural to feel sleepy. Sounds sleepy and cozy, isn't it. But, Caution, My Friend! This can be fatal. Sleeping at the steering wheel or even a blink of your eyes could be dangerous. Here are few easy ways or tips to avoid nodding off while driving.

Longer Journey Needs Break – If you are out for a trip miles away from home, then breaks during driving is mandatory. Get out of car and just move around for some time. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before you start again.

Car Pooling Helps As Someone Is Sitting Next To You - It is always advisable to drive with someone sitting with on the seat next to drivers. The feeling of someone next to you unconsciously keep you awake. Car pooling serves a number of purposes in such a case. Besides giving you a company while driving, it saves fuel and money as well.

Active Conversation Helps – Try to talk while driving, but ensure that the conversation is light so that you donot divert your attention from driving.

Radio or Music Player – If driving alone, just tune up to your favorite radio station or enjoy listening to a song. Avid listening to something that makes you feel too relaxed.

Wash Your Eyes with Cold Water – I you are on the verge of drowsiness, just get down the car and wash your face and splash some cold water in your eyes.

Hunger Mars Sleep – For some, staying hungry works. I am not advising you to starve off food, but just try to have a light meal, so that you might feel the hunger while driving.

Chewing Something Works for Others – Munch on something that tickles your taste buds. You may also try crunchy food items also. This is a common way to keep yourself awake while driving.

Slide Down Car's Window – Let some chilly air come inside your car so that you don't fall asleep. Just bring down your power windows or glass panes to feel the chill in atmosphere.


Swap Drivers – Easiest way to prevent any accident because of nodding off is swapping of drivers. While driving late night or during a drive to a far off place, you may ask your co-passenger to drive for an hour, while you take a short nap that will freshen you.

Go for Catnaps – This is advisable if it works for you. You can stop at a hotel on the way for few hours of sleep. Or else, you might also stop your car and snooze at the backseat.

Party Less – Researches reveal that those who party hard are more likely to fall asleep at the steering. So, if you know you have to drive for miles next morning, try not to party till late night.

Sitting in the Same Position Also Invites Sleepiness – Thats is a major cause of drowsiness. Try to just relax your body after an hour of drive and then start driving again.

Try these tips, one of these will surely work for you. Always remember, just ensure your that your drive safely. Happy Safe Driving!

Safe Driving Tips on Icy Roads

Even the most experienced drivers face problems while driving during winter season. A snow covered road can be as dangerous as a wet one is. Reports reveal that road accidents rate increases during winters and the causes are many. Besides the fog, the snow or ice on the road accelerate the chances of skidding of vehicles. A check on your driving and behind the wheel behaviors on road can save you and others from accidents. Apart from following the winter car care tips, there are few driving tips that must be followed especially during freezing weather.

From taking care of the car tires to keeping a check for black frost on road or by ensuring to keep lights clean from dirt, one can minimize the chances of road accidents. One should keep an eye for any indication that can misguide you while driving.

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