New Traffic Laws in CA 2025
SACRAMENTO, CA – March 10, 2025 – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) are reminding drivers about several significant traffic law changes that went into effect on January 1, 2025. These new regulations aim to enhance road safety, improve traffic flow, and provide better protection for all road users throughout the state.
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Key Changes in California Traffic Laws for 2025
Parking Restrictions Near Intersections ("Daylighting" Law): Assembly Bill 413, the "Daylighting Law," prohibits parking within 20 feet of any crosswalk to improve pedestrian visibility at intersections. The rule applies to all crosswalks, regardless of curb markings. After a grace period ending March 1, 2025, violations now incur a $77.50 fine. Early data shows reduced pedestrian incidents at intersections statewide.
Increased Bridge Tolls: As of January 1, 2025, tolls on the Bay Area's seven state-owned bridges rose by $1 to $8 for standard vehicles. The increased tolls are for maintenance and infrastructure improvements. FasTrak users receive discounts, and carpools with three or more occupants pay half-price during peak hours.
Stricter Penalties for Street Racing and Sideshows: California is cracking down on illegal street racing and sideshows with new laws that expand police authority to impound vehicles. Under AB 1978, even spectators at illegal sideshows risk having their cars seized. AB 2186 extends this penalty to races held on private roads and parking lots. AB 2807 officially defines “sideshows” and “street takeovers,” closing loopholes in enforcement. AB 3085 allows law enforcement to impound vehicles used in races even if they aren’t found until later. These laws target reckless driving events that put pedestrians and other motorists at risk.
Expansion of Express Lanes: New express lanes on Interstate 80 through Solano County and southbound Interstate 680 in the Tri-Valley area will open throughout 2025. The lanes offer solo drivers a toll-based faster option while carpools receive discounts or free access depending on the corridor.
Implications for California Drivers
With these new regulations now in effect, California drivers must adjust their habits to avoid potential citations and penalties. Particular attention should be paid to parking restrictions near intersections, as enforcement of the "Daylighting Law" is now in full effect following the grace period.
Budgeting for the increased toll costs is essential for those who regularly cross Bay Area bridges. Commuters are encouraged to consider carpooling options or explore available public transportation alternatives.
Drivers planning to use the new express lanes should ensure they have the appropriate FasTrak transponder and understand the specific rules for each corridor, as they may vary slightly throughout the state.
These regulatory changes are expected to yield significant safety improvements across California's transportation network. The Daylighting Law, in particular, addresses a critical safety concern by improving visibility at intersections, which are hotspots for vehicle-pedestrian collisions.
California's Need for Improved Road Safety
California consistently ranks among the states with the highest numbers of traffic fatalities, with over 4,000 deaths recorded annually in recent years. Urban intersections remain hazardous, accounting for nearly 40% of pedestrian injuries. These statistics call for stronger traffic regulations and infrastructure improvements designed to protect vulnerable road users while maintaining efficient transportation networks across the state.
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