Stay on Top of 2019 California Auto Rules
While many of us were getting into our new year's habits and enjoying the start of 2019, California passed new auto laws. These new rules can affect many of us, so it's important to stay up to date with recent changes. Here are just a few that you should know about.
Window Tinting
The amount of light that can pass through your car windows is measured in percentages (called VLT), so make sure your tinting film is up to these standards! In California, there is no difference in regulations for sedans, or SUVs and vans, so these laws are for all vehicles.
- Windshield allows transparent strip on top 4 to 5 inches
- Front side windows must pass through more than 70% of light inside your car (70% VLT)
- Backside windows and rear window can have any darkness
Exhaust Noise
In short, all cars and other motor vehicles in California must be equipped with a muffler, and any exhaust modifications must not be designed to increase the exhaust noise above 95 dbA. There are additional regulations as well so we recommend reviewing the California Vehicle Code for important sections related to exhaust noise levels. For example, Section 2115.3 prohibits installing €œwhistle-tip€ or similar devices which emit a high pitched or shrieking noise when the vehicle is in operation.
Windshield Stickers
Stickers are permitted if stickers are a maximum 7-inch square, placed in the lower left corner of the windshield farthest removed from the driver, or a maximum 5-inch square placed in the lower corner of the windshield nearest the driver.
Distracted Driving
In California, drivers are not allowed to use mobile phones for calling, nor reading or writing text messages while driving on a public road. Drivers may use cell phones for texting or calling in case they have a hands-free system installed. All drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using phones even with a handsfree system.
Smog Check Changes
This law expands the existing smog check exemption to vehicles that are up to eight model years old, up from the current exemption of six model years. During the additional two years of exemption, these vehicles will pay an annual $25 smog abatement fee. The current annual $20 smog abatement fee for the first six years of exemption remains unchanged.
Gender Identity Female, Male, or Nonbinary
This law allows individuals applying for a California driver license or identification card to self-certify their chosen gender category of male, female or nonbinary in the application. Applicants who select nonbinary will receive a card with an €œX€ in the gender category.
Remember to stay on top of recent changes and new laws so that you can stay safe on the roads. You deserve an
auto insurance policy that works together to bring you the best possible coverage from an insurer with your best interest in mind. For quality coverage, contact Little & Sons Insurance Services today.
