Changes in Driving Laws for 2022

By Eugene Bruno on January 5, 2022

Assembly Bill 3 promises to “crack down” on illegal street racing events. Events featuring racing and stunts, sometimes called sideshows, occur when people block a roadway to race, perform stunts, or other reckless driving. Sideshows have become very popular and very dangerous. CHP logged more than 25,000 reports of street racing last year — and that’s just one law enforcement agency.

Serious injuries and deaths are frequently reported when drivers lose control of vehicles and crash into crowds of spectators. AB3 will impose a 6 months license suspension for drivers caught participating in these dangerous street events. Some cities, like Fairfield, California are going even further, where even drivers and spectators alike can face misdemeanor charges. In addition to increased enforcement, state and local leaders should open up other venues such as tracks and parking lots so these popular stunt driving events can be held safely.

Also, a reminder that using a handheld cell phone while driving is currently punishable by a fine and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction of the same offense will result in a point being added to your driver’s record. This applies to violations for talking or texting while driving (except for hands-free use) and to any use of these devices while driving by a person under 18 years of age. This change took effect on July 1, 2021 but it’s still worth remembering!