Several new traffic laws took effect in California on January 1, 2026, which can indirectly affect insurance rates through increased citations.
- Expanded “Slow Down, Move Over” (AB 390): Drivers must now slow down or change lanes for any stopped vehicle displaying hazard lights, not just emergency vehicles.
- Automated Red Light Enforcement: New legislation has given California cities broader authority to use automated cameras at intersections. While these are civil penalties, footage can be used to determine fault in disputed insurance claims.
- Autonomous Vehicle Rules (SB 480): Self-driving cars must now use external marker lamps to indicate when they are in autonomous mode.