California
GHSA maintains data on state laws surrounding a number of highway safety issues. Below is information regarding laws in the state of California. For more information, consult the State Highway Safety Office.
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Universal helmet law enacted 1992.
5 years
70 and over: mail or online renewal through Dec. 31, 2022
None
Decriminalized and legal for medical and recreational use
None
70
55
65
55
70
55
0.15
4 months
After 30 days
Mandatory for all repeat and injury-involved offenses, first-time injury or vehicular manslaughter offenses.
Yes
No
Under 2 yrs or under 40 pounds or 40” in rear-facing car seat, following manufacturer instructions and in a back seat
Under 8 yrs or under 57" tall in child safety seat or booster seat in the back seat, following manufacturer instructions
Under 16 yrs properly restrained, including a seat belt
17 years
15 / 6
6
50 (10)
16
11 p.m. - 5 a.m. (secondary enforcement)
First 12 months: no passengers under 20 (secondary enforcement) unless accompanied by parent, guardian or other adult 25 years or older
All
Primary
16 and over
Yes. Primary law.
Yes. Primary law.
Drivers under 18. Secondary law.
All drivers. Primary law.
Permitted by state law
In six specified jurisdictions in a pilot program until 2032
Permitted by state law
Statewide
Lyft Grant Results: California
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) was one of five states to receive a grant from Lyft and GHSA in 2018. With this funding, OTS augmented its "Go Safely, California" campaign during the holiday season to provide discounted Lyft rides to impaired travelers.
Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys
Bisnar Chase represents victims where negligence has caused severe injuries.
Is the American Autobahn next? How states are pushing highway speeds past the limit
A recent proposal in California would establish a speed limit-free autobahn on a stretch of road. GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins speaks to the dangers of increasing – or eliminating – speed limits.
These California drivers are still on cell phones, despite state’s get-tough law
Distracted driving continues to pose a significant threat on our roads, even though many drivers recognize the risks. California Office of Traffic Safety Director and GHSA Board Member Rhonda Craft addresses the need for a change in public perception.
New Year’s brings crackdown on drunken drivers, options for safe transport
Through a grant from GHSA and Lyft, the California Office of Traffic Safety launched its "Go Safely" campaign to help those ringing in the New Year travel safely.
New Year’s brings crackdown on drunken drivers, options for safe transport
Story by Melia Russell and Megan Cassidy
December 30, 2018
Lyft and States Partner to Encourage Responsible Road Use
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 8, 2018
CONTACT: Kara Macek, 202-789-0942 x140
Everyone on the road is responsible for bicycle safety
Bicycle Helmet Laws: California
Bike helmets required?
Bicycle helmets required for all riders under 18.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws: California
Motorcycle Helmet Required?
Universal helmet law enacted 1992.