Cell Phones
California law prohibits the use of a cell phone while operating a vehicle unless you use a hands-free device. Of course, it is always important to use common sense. We recommend the following safe driving guidelines: Always use a hands-free device. Only dial while the car is not in motion, such as at a traffic light or stop sign. Learn to operate the phone without looking at it. Never allow a phone conversation to distract you from driving. Keep calls brief. While talking, keep your head up and your eyes on the road, with frequent checks of side and rearview mirrors. Don’t take notes or look up phone numbers while driving. If you must check information, arrange to call back and do your research while the car is safely stopped.
Window Tinting
The main requirements for legal window tinting in California are: 1. The windshield and front driver’s side and passenger’s side windows cannot receive any aftermarket tinting. 2. If the rear window of a vehicle is tinted, the vehicle must have outside rearview mirrors on both sides. The law prohibits any person from driving any motor vehicle with any object or material placed, displayed, installed, affixed, or applied upon the windshield or side or rear windows, with certain limited exceptions. However, legislation signed into law effective January 1, 1999, exempts from the above prohibition specified clear, colorless, and transparent material that is installed, affixed, or applied to the front driver and passenger side windows for the specific purpose of reducing ultraviolet rays. If, as, or when this material becomes torn, bubbled or otherwise worn, it must be removed or replaced.
Motorcycle Lane Splitting
Lane splitting by motorcycles is permissible but must be done prudently and with emphasis on safe driving conditions.
Road Conditions
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) operates two road condition hotlines. From within California, call 800-427-ROAD (7623), and when you are outside the state you can receive the same information at (916) 445-7623. Caltrans also has a web page that contains several different sources for road information. The URL is: www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/
Chains
“R” ratings on snowy roads indicate chain requirements for various conditions. Some vehicles may not be required to use chains under all conditions, but all vehicles must carry chains. Most vehicles come equipped with snow tires. Look for M+S (mud and snow), All-Season, or All-Terrain, on the side of the tire. R-1 chains required except for vehicles with snow tires (chains required for any vehicle pulling a trailer) R-2 chains required except for 4-wheel drive with snow tires R-3 chains required for all vehicles.
Studded Tires
California Vehicle Code [Section 27454 (e)], permits studded tires to be used on vehicles between November 1 and April 30 of each year. The number of studs or the percentage of metal in contact with the roadway cannot exceed three percent of the total tire area in contact with the roadway. Since there could be some confusion on this issue, you may wish to write to the CHP. That way you will receive an official response that you can carry in your vehicle. The mailing address is: California Highway Patrol Office of Public Affairs P. O. Box 942898 Sacramento, CA 94298-0001.
Accident Reports
How do I get a copy of an accident report (in which I was involved)? When you hire the Law Offices of Howard Kitay, we will obtain the accident report for you and answer any questions you may have about the report.
