The first of the year brings with it a number of new laws passed by legislators during the previous year. In California, a total of 807 news laws took effect on January 1, 2016, including one law that makes it illegal to wear earbud earphones or earplugs in both ears while driving a car or riding a bicycle.
Under California state law, it has been illegal to wear over-the-head style earphones for some time. Upon the New Year, however, that law has been tweaked to include modern style earbuds and to specifically state that drivers may only have one earbud or earplug in. This ensures one ear is free to listen for any potential dangers, signals, or sirens while on the road.
The new distracted driving law applies to all motor vehicle drivers – with the exception of drivers of industrial vehicles like construction vehicles or garbage trucks. Drivers who violate the new law can be cited and face fines.
The law was passed largely because of the many efforts safety advocates have made to raise awareness about distracted driving – a nationwide epidemic responsible for thousands of preventable car accidents, injuries, and deaths each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), talking on a cell phone – hands free or otherwise – can create significant distractions that prevent motorists from reacting appropriately to potential hazards.
As a firm that represents victims harmed in car accidents, we know that all forms of distracted driving are dangerous and encourage everyone to be aware of the new law in place because it can keep yourself and others around you safe.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a traffic accident that was not your fault, our Ventura car accident lawyers at Ventura Injury Law Group are available to help protect your right to compensation! Learn more about working with our team during the personal injury claim process by contacting us for a FREE consultation.
