California’s roads are about to see significant changes as 2026 brings a wave of new traffic laws aimed at boosting safety and accountability. These updates target everything from drunk driving to roadside hazards, reflecting the state’s ongoing push to reduce accidents and protect all road users. Drivers who stay informed can avoid hefty fines and contribute to safer highways.
Expanded Slow Down, Move Over Rule
One of the biggest shifts comes from AB 390, which widens the “Slow Down, Move Over” law. Previously, this rule applied only to emergency vehicles like ambulances and police cars. Now, motorists must slow down or switch lanes when nearing any stopped vehicle with hazard lights flashing, such as tow trucks, highway maintenance crews, or roadside assistance vans.
This change addresses a common danger: vehicles pulled over on busy shoulders often become accident hotspots. Lawmakers noted hundreds of injuries yearly from drivers not yielding space. Expect citations and higher insurance rates for violations, so scan ahead and give plenty of room.
Tougher DUI Penalties and Ignition Interlocks
AB 366 ramps up the fight against impaired driving by extending mandatory ignition interlock devices for all DUI offenders, even first-timers, until 2033. These breathalyzers prevent a car from starting if alcohol is detected. Probation periods for serious cases like vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated have also lengthened.
Judges now have tools to keep repeat offenders off the road longer. Data shows interlocks cut recidivism by up to 70 percent in past programs. If you’re convicted, plan for installation costs around $100 monthly plus DMV fees.
License Plate Obstruction Crackdown
AB 1085 makes it illegal to use or sell covers, tints, or frames that obscure license plates from cameras or officers. Fines hit $1,000 per violation, classified as an infraction. This targets toll evasion and hit-and-runs where plates get hidden.
Cops in urban areas like Los Angeles report frustration with sneaky plate tricks. Check your vehicle now—clear plates mean smoother traffic stops and lower risk of tickets. Enforcement ramps up at toll booths and red-light cameras.
Key Takeaways: Key 2026 Law Changes
| Law (Bill) | Change Summary | Penalty/Fine | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AB 390 | Expand “Slow Down, Move Over” to hazard light vehicles | Citation + liability | Jan 1, 2026 |
| AB 366 | Ignition interlocks for all DUIs until 2033 | Device install + fees | Jan 1, 2026 |
| AB 1085 | Ban plate covers/tints | $1,000 fine | Jan 1, 2026 |
| AB 630 | Easier RV disposal in select counties | N/A | Jan 1, 2026 |
| SB 480 | Autonomous vehicle marker lamps allowed | N/A | Jan 1, 2026 |
| AB 486 | Key-programming devices for burglary now misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail + $1,000 | Jan 1, 2026 |
Autonomous Vehicles Get New Signals
SB 480 lets self-driving cars sport special marker lamps in a unique color, alerting everyone when autonomous mode activates. This helps pedestrians and drivers anticipate robotaxi behavior on streets from San Francisco to San Diego.
As companies like Waymo expand fleets, these lights prevent confusion. No fines yet for non-compliance, but future rules may follow. Keep an eye out—these vehicles are becoming everyday sights.
Abandoned RVs and Theft Prevention
AB 630 simplifies removing junk RVs worth $4,000 or less in Los Angeles and Alameda counties, up from a $500 cap. It clears eyesores that block roads and breed hazards. Meanwhile, AB 486 criminalizes carrying key-programming tools or signal boosters meant for car break-ins, with jail time possible.
These measures tackle urban clutter and rising vehicle thefts. Neighborhoods plagued by derelict campers will see quicker cleanups, improving traffic flow.
Red-Light Cameras and Broader Enforcement
New red-light cameras roll out with stricter rules, tying into plate visibility laws. Drivers face automated $1,000 fines for running signals. The DMV pushes digital services too, like easier renewals online.
Safety stats justify this: intersections claim thousands of crashes yearly. Update your habits at busy crossings to dodge surprises.
Preparing for Compliance
Review your setup before January 1—remove plate covers, know the move-over zones, and drive sober always. Apps from the DMV offer reminders, and local auto shops install interlocks if needed. Staying ahead keeps you legal and safe amid these proactive reforms.
FAQs
Q: Does the new move-over law apply to freeways only?
A: No, it covers all roads with stopped hazard vehicles.
Q: Who pays for ignition interlocks?
A: Offenders cover costs, about $100/month.
Q: Are fines higher for plate covers in cities?
A: Standard $1,000 statewide.
