Under California DUI laws, anything self-propelled can be considered a vehicle. Under Vehicle Code section 21050 (VC), anyone riding or driving on an animal on public property is subject to the same laws as those operating a motor vehicle. In other words, these two laws make it illegal to ride a horse or operate a […]
Jaywalking is Legal in California. Here’s What to Know
Police tend to use jaywalking tickets as a pretext to stop African American pedestrians. By decriminalizing jaywalking, this problem could be erased without making the streets any more dangerous for pedestrians.
What is SR22 Insurance and What are the Requirements in California?
After being convicted of a DUI or other serious driving crime resulting in a driver’s license suspension, you must file an SR22 form with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get back on the road. Those who drive motorcycles must obtain the similar SR1P document. These forms indicate that you have obtained suitable financial coverage […]
Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Charges in San Diego, California
These days, practically everyone knows it is illegal to drink and drive, but for whatever reason, many people don’t know it is against the law to operate a boat while under the influence (BUI) under California Harbors and Navigation Code 655 (HNC). Doing so is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous, which is […]
Can You Get a DUI for Driving While High in California?
While recreational marijuana may be legal in California, driving under the influence of cannabis is still a crime. While most people associate DUIs with alcohol use, California Vehicle Code 23152(f) (VC) allows people to be charged with this crime after driving under the influence of any controlled substance, including marijuana. Even if you have a […]
What is the Sentence for Vehicular Manslaughter in California?
Vehicular homicide, detailed under California Penal Code section 192c (PC), is one of the most serious driving offenses a person can be charged with. It occurs when someone dies because another person was driving in negligently or unlawfully. You can even face vehicular manslaughter charges if you caused a fatal car accident while speeding. If […]
What to do if You’re Accused of Evading the Police in California
When you see a police car’s flashing lights, you are expected to pull over, even if only to get out of the way. But failing to do so does not constitute evading arrest in California, nor is the definition limited to the high-speed chases commonly seen on TV news programs —in fact, most cases of […]
What Are the Penalties of A Drive-By Shooting Under 26100 (PC)?
While some believe only the shooter is criminally liable in a drive-by shooting, that is far from the truth. Under California law, Penal Code section 26100 (PC) says if your vehicle was used for a drive-by shooting, but you were not present, you could be convicted if the prosecution can prove that you knew your […]
California Car Registration Fraud: Vehicle Code 4463 (VC)
Whether you are trying to save a little extra cash or just don’t want to deal with the DMV, you might be tempted to counterfeit your license registration sticker or paperwork rather than properly registering your car with the state and getting official tags, license plates, or smog certification. Unfortunately, what may seem like a […]
The Unlawful Use of a Disability Placard in California
California Vehicle Code section 22507.8 (VC) makes it illegal to park in a handicapped parking spot without the proper disability placard or license plate. Violating this law is only an infraction punishable by a fine of up to $500. Additionally, the vehicle may be towed, and the driver will be responsible for towing and impoundment […]
