New California Laws Aim to Improve Road Safety and Lift Cruising Bans
Under new state laws, five cities will test cameras to catch speeding drivers and cruising bans will be lifted statewide. The first is supposed to improve road safety, but critics of the second say it will endanger the public.
Speeding Drivers Caught on Camera
Starting January 1, California will implement new laws aimed at improving road safety. One of these laws allows six cities to launch a pilot program using cameras to catch and fine speeding drivers. The cities authorized for this program include Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, Glendale, Long Beach, and San Francisco. The program will last for five years or until January 1, 2032, whichever date comes sooner.
During the first 60 days of the program, violators will only receive warnings. After this introductory period, fines will be imposed, starting at $50 for drivers who exceed the speed limit by at least 11 mph. The fines can be reduced based on the driver's income. The revenue generated from these fines will be used to cover program costs and implement traffic calming measures, such as raised crosswalks and speed tables.
Advocates for traffic safety and local officials have praised the use of speed cameras, citing research that shows their effectiveness in reducing traffic accidents and fatalities. However, critics, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, ACLU California Action, and Human Rights Watch, raise concerns about surveillance, privacy, and data security as license plate numbers are captured by the cameras, but not the faces of drivers.
The End of Cruising Bans
Another law that will take effect on January 1 lifts the statewide ban on cruising. Cruising refers to the leisurely act of driving classic lowrider cars on city streets. This activity, deeply rooted in car culture, was previously restricted in various cities, including San Jose, Sacramento, and Modesto.
The lifting of cruising bans has been advocated for by car enthusiasts and Democratic lawmakers who argue that the bans discriminate against Latino communities. They see cruising as a way to express art and acknowledge the social and artistic merits associated with it. Additionally, the law also allows for the modification of vehicles to a certain low height.
Law enforcement groups and some cities, such as Beverly Hills and Pico Rivera, as well as the California Contract Cities Association, have expressed concerns about the public safety implications of cruising. They argue that it can endanger pedestrians and lead to dangerous street takeovers. However, proponents of the new law believe that cruising can be enjoyed responsibly and should be recognized as an integral part of car culture.
Impacts and Controversies
The introduction of these new laws in California aims to address road safety concerns and alleviate discriminatory restrictions. While the use of speed cameras is expected to enhance safety and reduce traffic-related incidents, critics worry about potential surveillance and privacy issues.
On the other hand, the lifting of cruising bans acknowledges the cultural significance of this activity but raises concerns about public safety. As these new laws come into effect, it will be important to closely monitor their impacts on road safety, community dynamics, and individual rights.
As California takes these steps to modify its traffic regulations, debates surrounding surveillance, safety, and cultural expression will continue to shape discussions on road policies and practices in the state.
