Why Laws Change — Safety, Technology & Enforcement
The main goal of traffic laws is to keep everyone safe on the roads. As new technologies emerge, new challenges arise to enforce traffic laws and improve safety. Understanding these new laws and how they impact you as a driver is key to staying compliant, and knowing your rights in case of a traffic law violation. We’ll explore California’s new traffic laws for 2026 and how to stay safe and legal on the road.
Key 2026 Changes Drivers Should Know
Whether you’re thinking of buying an autonomous vehicle, considering an e-bike for a family member, or just trying to stay up-to-date on road safety and compliance, it’s important to learn these 2026 California traffic laws drivers need to know.
Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Interaction & First Responder Requirements
California AV law currently includes several restrictions on autonomous vehicles, including that they can’t be operated on public roads unless the manufacturer has approval from the DMV. On July 1st, 2026, additional restrictions will go in place that require manufacturers to put two-way communication devices in the vehicle so that first responders can communicate with remote AV operators.
E-bike Safety & Youth Restrictions (Pilot Programs)
Several counties will add age restrictions for California e-bike safety laws in 2026. Marin County will not allow anyone under the age of 16 to ride a class 2 e-bike, while San Diego County will prohibit anyone under the age of 12 from riding class 1 or class 2 e-bikes. These pilot programmes are currently set to last until January 1st, 2029.
License Plate Obstruction/Alteration Prohibitions
A new license plate obstruction law will expand on current regulations around altering license plates. This bill will prohibit people from making any changes to the reflective coating on license plates, or changing the license plate in any way that might impact electronic capture. This is intended to prevent people from trying to avoid tolls and other traffic violations.
Expanded Automated Enforcement: Speed, Red-light & Transit Lanes
Some parts of California, such as LA, San Jose, and Oakland, have already implemented automated enforcement pilot programs for improving traffic safety. The new expanded 2026 speed enforcement laws will include places like the City of Malibu, and will include more automated systems for detecting speed, red-light, and transit lane violations and issuing notices.
Looking for more details on recent traffic laws? Learn more about 2025 California traffic laws, including changes to parking near crosswalks.
What These Laws Mean for Everyday Drivers
Learn what’s new in 2026 California driving laws and what they mean for your daily commute or e-bike ride.
AV Laws
Under the new 2026 autonomous vehicle law in California, if you own an AV or are planning to own one, you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is up to date with the required communication device. Confirm your vehicle has the right communication device with the manufacturer and the DMV before you begin driving the vehicle.
E-bike Pilot Programs
Depending on your county, your child may be restricted as to the type of e-bike they can ride until they reach the proper age. Currently, all people under the age of 18 are also required to wear a helmet when riding e-bikes.
License Plate Obstruction/Alteration
If your license plate has no damage or changes, then you won’t need to do anything to comply with this law. However, if you’ve previously altered your license plate, or if your plate has been damaged in a way that impacts the reflective coating, you may need a new license plate to maintain compliance.
Expanded Automated Enforcement
This law represents expanded enforcement, rather than major changes to the laws themselves. Adhering to speed, red-light, and transit lane regulations is the best way to avoid any violations. Starting 30 days before implementation, the city is also required to provide the public with information about where and when the new enforcement systems will be used. For the first 60 days of the program, the city must also issue warning notices, rather than violation notices.
Enforcement & Penalties: What You Should Watch Out For
The most common California traffic violations remain the same as before, including:
- Speeding
- Red light violations
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving
- Transit lane violations
The new and expanded regulations make it important to also be aware of:
- Operating an AV without proper approval
- Riding an e-bike under age or without a helmet
- Driving with a damaged, obscured, or altered license plate
Expanded automated enforcement systems mean that more areas may now be regularly monitored for violations. Penalties may vary depending on the severity of the violation, and can include fines, license suspension, and jail time.
How New Laws Affect Accidents & Liability
The new California traffic laws are intended to reduce accidents and improve road safety. Liability can vary depending on the severity of the incident and previous driving records.
Remember that for some incidents, you may be entitled to a notice rather than a violation if the incident was enforced through a new automated system within the first 60 days of implementation.
For new autonomous vehicles, liability now focuses on the manufacturer rather than the driver, as manufacturers are required to obtain the proper legal approval before driving cars on public roads. However, it’s still important to review your vehicle’s compliance to reduce any liability risk.
Worried about liability? From traffic accidents to common hazards that require a personal injury lawyer, the team at Jacob Emrani is here to help.
What Drivers Can Do to Stay Compliant & Safe
The following tips can help you stay safe and compliant for 2026:
Stay Up to Date in Your Area
Check with your local DMV about any county-specific changes to local road laws. If your area has instituted a new program like an automated enforcement system, your DMV can tell you where these systems are implemented and how to stay compliant.
Check Your Vehicle
In addition to your regular mechanical checks and insurance renewal, it’s important to stay familiar with your vehicle as a driver. Check that your vehicle is compliant with any legal changes — for example, that your license plate coating is intact and clearly visible.
Stay Alert on the Roads
Wear your seat belt or helmet if you’re riding a bike, and stay alert for any road signs and lane markings. If you’re new to an area, your navigation system can help you stay aware of speed limits and any other local regulations.
Call Jacob Emrani for Traffic Law Cases in Southern California
Facing a ticket or other concern about traffic laws in California? Jacob Emrani is your go-to car accident lawyer in Los Angeles. Serving the greater Southern California area, our team of experienced professionals are up-to-date and knowledgeable to help you win your case. Contact us today for your free case evaluation.