New Traffic Laws in California Drivers Should Know for 2025

The holiday season brings cheer, holiday parties, and a significant increase in car accidents. When we get swept up by the holidays, we must remind ourselves to go slow and be mindful of our driving habits. The frustration and stress of the holidays can cause us to forget crucial new laws that have been passed and can cause drivers to face the consequences during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. 

Distracted Driving Laws

It’s not just dangerous to touch a phone while driving, but illegal. With the passing of Assembly Bill 1785, also known as the “Put Your Phone Down, Just Drive” Campaign, it cracks down on distracted driving. You are three times more likely to get into a car crash when trying to text while driving. 

California’s distracted driver laws cover:

In an attempt to entice California drivers to focus on the roads, these new laws also come with new penalties. You could face increasing fines and points on your driver's license if you are caught driving while distracted.

Pedestrian Safety Enhancements

Visibility is better during the day, which inspired California's new “daylighting” bill. Assembly Bill 413, also known as the daylighting law, was passed to improve pedestrian safety at intersections. 

The key points of this bill:

These changes will come with warnings as drivers get used to the changes and then will move on to citations.  

Changes to Bicycle Laws

Bicyclists are afforded extra protections from cars that attempt to block the bicycle lane with some bills that were passed. When bicycle lanes are blocked by parked vehicles, they must decide if they can get onto the sidewalk and face fines for entering pedestrian traffic or the road where they could be hit by car traffic. Now, the state can enforce cars blocking the bike lanes with cameras that can report parked cars or traffic violations. 

Bicycles have also been allowed a slight change in their traffic movements. With an assembly bill known as the OmniBike Bill, bikes can now cross intersections in California when the pedestrian walk signal is on. This bill has passed many advancements for bicyclists, with the key points being:

Understanding the rules bicyclists have on the road is vital for vehicle drivers so that no one is making any traffic movements that will surprise each other and potentially cause an accident. Increased bicyclist protections were a top priority for California’s new traffic laws as they are some of the most vulnerable on the road. 

Other Notable Changes 

Since 1988, low-riding cruising has been banned, and with the support of so many Californians, this culturally significant legislation has been passed into law. Any previous regulations against low-rider cruising have been voided as of January 1, 2024

Drivers are familiar with redlight cameras that monitor intersections for traffic violations, but Assembly Bill 645 launched a pilot program for some California counties that will allow those cameras to capture speeding. Enforcing speeding laws with these cameras will bring drivers fines and penalties based on how fast they were going through the intersection.

What to Do if You Are Involved in an Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident, you should always ensure that you work with a skilled car accident attorney for guidance and help in building your case. A private car accident attorney will be your best chance to provide a skilled defense or ensure you receive the compensation you deserve if you’ve suffered injuries. 

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you should:

  1. Call the authorities
  2. Seek medical care
  3. Document the scene 
  4. Exchange information with other drivers
  5. Talk to witnesses and get their contact information
  6. Hire a car accident attorney
  7. Inform your insurance 

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you have the right to work with an experienced legal team to compensate you for your damages and injuries. At Injured 661, we proudly represent injury victims throughout the Santa Clarita area to help reduce the financial strain in the aftermath of a car accident. 

Experienced Car Accident Lawyers in Santa Clarita

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident, you need a car accident attorney who can provide you with tenacious representation to maximize your recovery. Car accidents can leave you with mounting medical bills, emotional trauma, and property damage that can impact your financial security, but it doesn’t have to. 
At Injured 661, we can explain your legal options and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Without an experienced attorney to evaluate your case, you will likely leave money on the table and not consider the impact the accident can have on your financial future. Don’t settle for less. Contact Injured 661 today so you can focus on your recovery while our attorneys fight for your compensation.

Long-Lasting Consequences of Fender Benders

Even Minor Car Accidents Can Have a Major Impact

Despite fender benders usually happening at a low speed, they can have long-term consequences. It is essential that you seek medical treatment immediately after any collision and contact an attorney if another person was responsible for the accident. You might be entitled to compensation to cover your injuries and the damage to your vehicle.

At Injured 661, we work with individuals who have been hurt in car accidents throughout the Santa Clarita area. Our experienced legal team fights hard to maximize damages and ensure that injury victims receive the recovery they deserve. If you were injured in a fender bender or other car accident, contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free consultation. 

What Is a Fender Bender?

A fender bender is generally considered a low-speed collision between two vehicles. Unfortunately, many people assume that fender benders are “minor” and do not require legal representation. The truth is that even small car accidents can result in huge problems, from latent injuries to unseen damage to the vehicle.

If you are involved in a fender bender that was caused by another driver, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a car accident attorney as soon as possible. An attorney will review your case to determine whether you should file a claim for damages against a negligent driver and their insurance company.

What Long-Lasting Consequences Can Result from a Minor Car Wreck?

“Minor” car wrecks can still have a major impact on your health, your finances, and your ability to work. One of the most deceiving things about fender benders is the potential for injuries. An unexpected collision may leave your body in shock, making it difficult to tell whether you have suffered harm. 

Common injuries after a fender bender include:

It is imperative to seek medical treatment immediately. Untreated injuries can get worse quickly, requiring additional procedures or rehabilitation to heal.

Vehicle Damage

In addition to injuries, you may have damage to your vehicle that goes beyond surface scrapes and dents. A fender bender can throw off your car’s alignment, bend the frame, create suspension issues, or worse. If you assume your vehicle is fine and do not get it repaired, you could do long-term, irreversible damage.

Do I Need an Attorney?

It is always in your best interest to consult an attorney after being involved in a car accident, even a fender bender. Depending on the situation, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries and the damages to your vehicle. 

Without legal representation, an at-fault driver’s insurance company may try to get you to settle for less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you will lose your right to pursue additional compensation for injuries or other damages that were not immediately apparent.

Injured in a Fender Bender? Contact Injured 661 Today!

Were you or a loved one injured in a fender bender? Contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are never any fees unless we win. 

At Injured 661, we proudly serve the entire Santa Clarita Valley, including Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, Valencia, and beyond. Were you injured in the SCV? Start your case today.

Stevenson Ranch Driver Crashes Down Embankment

Monday Morning Accident Near IMT Apartments Leaves Driver Injured 

Reports indicate that a driver was trapped after rolling dozens of feet down an embankment near the IMT Apartments in Stevenson Ranch. Emergency responders arrived on scene shortly after receiving notification of the accident to aid the injured driver.

At Injured 661, we are proud to serve the Stevenson Ranch community and the entire Santa Clarita region. Our lawyers help car accident victims maximize their damages to obtain the largest possible recovery after a collision with injuries. If you are involved in a car crash, contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win. Call today.

Injury Crash in Stevenson Ranch

KHTS HomeTown Station has reported an injury collision near the IMT Apartments in Stevenson Ranch. Emergency responders were dispatched to the area just after 9:00 am on Monday, January 31. 

The vehicle apparently plummeted dozens of feet down an embankment. The accident occurred next to the apartment complex located close to The Old Road and Pico Canyon Road. It is unclear what caused the crash and the status of the injured driver.

Safe Driving Tips

The Monday morning crash is a critical reminder to follow safety precautions and use defensive driving techniques while on the road. While the cause of this collision is under investigation, there are several tips that can help drivers arrive at their location unscathed.

Safe driving tips from experienced car accident lawyers:

Most car accidents are avoidable, caused by negligence or recklessness. By staying away from these common pitfalls, a large number of collisions would be prevented. 

If you are involved in an accident with injury, you need to consider legal representation. A car accident lawyer can help determine whether you have a valid claim for damages and should pursue compensation against a liable party.

Find Out If You Have a Case Today

Were you injured in an auto accident in the Santa Clarita Valley? Contact Injured 661 at (661) 917-2224 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team will work with you to determine whether you should file a lawsuit to obtain compensation for your injuries. We are here and ready to help. Call now to get started.

BREAKING: Stevenson Ranch Crash Leaves One Hospitalized

A person was hospitalized early on Wednesday, December 15th due to a car crash in Stevenson Ranch. 

According to KHTS, around 9:00 a.m. this morning, Stevenson Ranch first responders arrived at the scene of a two-vehicle collision crash that left one person hospitalized. The accident occurred near Hemingway Avenue and Bronte Lane, according to Geovanni Sanchez, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

At Injured 661, we represent those who have suffered personal injuries from automobile accidents. If you or someone you love was injured in an accident, contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free, no-obligation consultation

Power Outage Caused in the Area

Unfortunately, one of the vehicles involved in this crash hit a power distribution box, temporarily disabling the electricity in the surrounding area, including the traffic lights. If you are out and about this week busy with holiday shopping, remember to stay safe and attentive on the road.

What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident

As much joy as this season brings, it also presents a risk for everyone driving out on the busy roads. If you’ve found yourself in an accident, even if it is minor, remember to do these key things:

Don’t suffer the headache of dealing with a car accident and all its ramifications alone. Even if you’re minorly injured, an attorney will fight hard for you to be fairly compensated.

Consult with a Trusted Accident Lawyer Today

Were you injured in a Santa Clarita car accident? Get a free, no-obligation consultation from a trusted, local attorney today. Call (661) 917-2224 to discuss your legal options and how we can help hold negligent parties responsible for their wrongdoing.

An unexpected accident or injury can leave you unable to work and unable to pay medical bills. Let our experienced legal team help get you compensation for all of your

2 Vehicles Have Fallen Off Santa Clarita Freeway Overpasses this Month

Recent Car Accidents Raise Concerns Over Road Safety 

Two car accidents, only days apart, resulted in drivers plummeting from Santa Clarita freeways. Both crashes occurred in broad daylight. The collisions raise concerns about the safety of the city’s roadways and the daily dangers that drivers face. 

At Injured 661, we know how treacherous Santa Clarita freeways can be. We live and work in the community, frequently commuting across these same overpasses. If you are injured in a car accident, you might be entitled to compensation. 

Contact our office today at (661) 917-2224 to schedule a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win. 

Truck Takes 20 Foot Dive Off 5 Freeway

On Saturday, October 2, traffic was blocked after a truck plunged 20 feet off the side of the northbound 5 freeway. The vehicle landed upright in oncoming traffic on Lake Hughes Road, narrowly missing other cars, according to local reports. The crash occurred at around 12 pm.

The truck accident damaged the guardrail along the 5 freeway overpass, reportedly crashing into a tree before the drive dropped some 20 feet below. The vehicle sustained substantial damage, allegedly coming to rest after hitting a pillar that holds up the overpass.

14 Freeway Traffic Stopped by 3-Car Collision

On Tuesday, a second car drove off of a Santa Clarita overpass, this time off the southbound 14 Freeway. The vehicle was reportedly involved in a 3-car collision at around 10:45 am when the driver lost control. As noted by KHTS, southbound traffic was blocked as a result of the crash.

Injuries were unknown at the time the article was published, but airbags were deployed. The Santa Clarita car accident occurred on the 14 Freeway overpass above Via Princessa Road. The vehicle came to a rest on a hill off the side of the overpass.

Dangerous Santa Clarita Roadways

Santa Clarita has long ranked among the top cities for deadly roadways in California. Congestion, speed, and impairment all play a role in making these freeways, overpasses, and intersections dangerous. 

The design of certain sections of the freeway may also be a factor. If the roadway was defectively designed, then depending on the situation, the city or another entity might be held to blame. 

If you are seriously injured or have lost a loved one in a traffic accident, speaking with an attorney as early as possible is crucial. There may be one or more parties that can be held liable for your injuries.

Consult with a Trusted Accident Lawyer Today

Were you injured in a Santa Clarita car accident? Get a free, no-obligation consultation from a trusted, local attorney today. Call (661) 917-2224 to discuss your legal options and how we can help hold negligent parties responsible for their wrongdoing.

An unexpected accident or injury can leave you unable to work and unable to pay medical bills. Let our experienced legal team help get you compensation for all of your losses. Get free legal help now. Contact our office to get started.

Woman Driving Under the Influence Crashes with Child in Car on Rye Canyon Road

10-Year-Old Daughter Sustains Injury in 5 Freeway Accident Caused by Suspected DUI Driver

A 10-year-old girl and the driver of a vehicle sustained minor injuries in an accident on the 5 freeway in Valencia last month. The driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of a drug, according to local reports.

At Injured 661, we represent individuals who have been injured or killed by impaired drivers in Santa Clarita and the surrounding areas. If you were injured by someone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you deserve to be compensated. Contact our office at (661) 917-2224 for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your legal options.

Ventura Woman Suspected of DUI with a Child in the Car

As reported by KHTS, 47-year-old Natalie Dover was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs after veering off the 5 freeway on September 29. The woman had her 10-year-old daughter in the car at the time of the accident, according to a spokesperson with the California Highway Patrol. 

Ms. Dover was driving southbound on the 5 freeway when she traveled off the roadway and collided with a dirt embankment. The crash occurred a little after 1:00 am, as noted in the article by Santa Clarita’s Hometown Station. 

An investigation led law enforcement officials to believe that Dover was driving under the influence of a drug. She was placed under arrest with bail set at $200,000. Both Dover and her daughter are believed to have suffered minor injuries in the crash.

What to Do If You Are Injured in a DUI Crash

Over 10,000 people are killed each year in the United States as a result of impaired driving. These accidents are entirely preventable. While a criminal conviction for DUI may result in jail time, fines, and a license suspension, it rarely fully compensates a victim who is injured in the accident. 

If you are injured in a DUI collision, you should contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. The attorney can help you understand your right to recovery and how to proceed in holding a negligent driver responsible for their wrongdoing. In many cases, a DUI accident victim may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Injured in the SCV? Get Dedicated Legal Representation Today!

If you have been injured in a car accident in the Santa Clarita area, contact our office to discuss your case with an experienced attorney. We accept cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no fees unless we win. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our services.

Call (661) 917-2224 to get free legal help now. Our knowledgeable legal team is here to help you maximize your recovery and get the settlement or verdict you deserve. You only have a limited amount of time to pursue a lawsuit against a liable party. Do not wait until it is too late.