.

California Traffic Safety Institute wants drivers and the public to be aware of a couple of important new California traffic laws going into effect in 2026.

A Couple Key 2026 Traffic Safety Laws in California

School Zone & Highway Speed Changes:
Lower school zone speed limits: Lower the default school zone speed limit from 25 mph to 20 mph beginning Jan. 1, 2031, the lower limit automatically applies where signs are posted to help reduce speeding and save lives.

“Slow Down, Move Over” Expanded:
Drivers must move over or slow down not only for emergency vehicles, but any stationary highway vehicle displaying hazard lights, cones, flares, or warning devices — for the safety of workers and others on the roadside.

License Plate Obstruction or Alteration:
Makes it an infraction with a fine of $1,000 to manufacture in California a product or device that obscures, or is intended to obscure or interfere with the visual or electronic reading of a license plate, addressing the use of illegal license plate covers that enable toll evasion and other criminal activity.