California’s coastal roads are windy and narrower than the interstates
like 101, 5, 80 so the pace is much slower – that’s the point! If
your trip will include significant distance, consider using these
inland interstates to cover some of the trip if time is an issue. Restrooms, restaurants and fuel are more predictable along the
interstates.
Try the back roads on your California road trip for a more relaxed and
intimate view of this great state. With so much of the land in
either forest or desert, there are thousands of adventures in the
less-traveled regions. There you’ll find country inns, cafes,
local crafts and plenty of scenery.
Driving Regulations: Key facts about driving in California
For road conditions 24/7, call the California Department of Transportation at (916) 445-1534 before starting your trip.
-
Seat belts are required for both drivers and passengers. Children
under 4 years of age or weighing less than 40 lbs. must be in an
approved child safety seat. Children under 6 or less than 60 lbs.
must be secured in an approved safety seat or booster seat.
-
Right turn on red is allowed after a stop at most intersections unless otherwise signed.
-
Drive with caution in fog – if visibility is too compromised, pull over
– well off the roadway – and wait for conditions to improve. Better yet, pick a nice restaurant and wait it out while enjoying
California cuisine.
-
In the summer, grasses are very dry throughout much of
California. Help prevent grass fires by not tossing lit
cigarettes from car windows.
-
Some communities use cameras at intersections to ticket drivers running red lights.
-
It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher.
-
Helmets are required for motorcyclists.
)
