Understanding California Teen Driving Laws

cartwrightlaw - July 18, 2024 -

A driver’s license is often viewed as a sign of freedom and a rite of passage for teenagers. While this can be an important marker of independence for teenagers, new drivers have been found to be at greater risk of being involved in an accident based on inexperience. Often, teens can benefit from more practice and easy driving conditions even after they complete their permit and pass their driver’s license test.

If your teen was injured or you suffered injuries due to a teen driver, seek assistance from a Cartwright car accident attorney.

What Are Teen Driving Laws in California?

In California, there are driving laws that have been created specifically to keep teens safe as they ease into the practice of driving. Even after receiving a driver’s license, there are restrictions for teenagers.

Restrictions for Teen Drivers

The state of California has established specific restrictions for teen drivers. These are meant to provide a safer environment for the first year after they receive their license. The goal is to reduce accidents caused by more inexperienced drivers and also to keep those drivers safer from those on the road.

During the first twelve months after receiving their driver’s license, a minor may not:

Transport any passengers under the age of twenty years old unless they are accompanied by a licensed California driver who is 25 or older, a certified driving instructor, or a parent or guardian.
Drive a vehicle between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Use a cell phone while driving unless it is being used to report an emergency.

Ways to Keep Your Teens Safe on the Road

The state laws are meant to keep your teen safe on the road. There are other methods that you can use in addition to the California laws. A few ways to keep your teens safe include:

Requiring them to put their phone away in the back seat to avoid the temptation to text and drive.
Accompanying them on longer drives.
Giving them time to practice driving on the smaller streets near home.
Make sure they are always wearing a seat belt.

Driving is a privilege and a responsibility, so ensuring that your teen is a safe driver can help prevent serious accidents and injuries.

Teens Can be in Accidents

New drivers on the road are not always as responsive to what is happening around them. Although it is scary to consider, teens can be in accidents, and they can cause them as well. In either situation, injured victims should discuss the matter with a Bay Area car accident lawyer.

Hiring a Discovery Bay Car Accident Attorney

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be devastating, especially if a teen driver is involved. If you have been in an accident, it is advisable to work with an experienced Discovery Bay car accident attorney.

Contact The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc. to learn more about your options. You can call us at (415) 851-6486 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation as soon as possible.