Ever been pulled over and thought, “Wait, that’s illegal?” Turns out, California’s roads are full of rules that most people break without knowing it. And no, it’s not just about speeding or forgetting a turn signal. Some of these laws are downright strange—or easy to overlook. That’s why knowing what’s legal on the road matters more than ever, especially in a place like Bakersfield. Whether you’re avoiding a ticket or dealing with the aftermath of a crash, a Bakersfield injury lawyer from Avrek Law can be the difference between getting buried in bills or getting the help needed.
Avrek Law was founded to support regular people—not big insurance companies. When an accident happens, those companies often try to pay out as little as possible. The experienced team at Avrek Law knows exactly how to respond and protect the rights of injury victims across California.
Common California Driving Laws You’re Probably Breaking
Some rules are obvious. Don’t text and drive. Don’t blow through a red light. But others? Not so much. Here are some laws many drivers ignore every day:
- Wearing earbuds or headphones in both ears while driving
Even if blasting a podcast during traffic sounds like a dream, California law says no. One ear must remain free. - Using a phone while stopped at a red light
That red light doesn’t mean screen time is okay. The hands-free rule still applies—even when the car isn’t moving. - Hanging items from your rearview mirror
That fuzzy dice or air freshener might be cute, but it’s also illegal. It counts as an obstruction of view. - Not using headlights in bad weather
If windshield wipers are on, headlights must be too. Even in daylight. - Parking on the wrong side of the street
Cars must face the direction of traffic when parked, even in residential areas.
These infractions might seem minor, but they can cause serious problems—especially after an accident. That’s when a Bakersfield California personal injury attorney can help figure out how small decisions might affect a claim.
Obscure But Real: More California Road Laws
Some California laws might sound made-up, but they’re 100% real. Get ready for these head-scratchers:
- It’s illegal to drive too slowly in the fast lane. If not passing or moving with traffic, drivers must merge right.
- Opening a car door into moving traffic can lead to fines or liability.
- You must signal for 100 feet before turning. That’s about 5 car lengths.
And yes, flipping off another driver could be considered road rage. If that interaction causes a crash, there might be serious consequences. A Bakersfield personal injury lawyer can assess whether behavior like this plays into legal responsibility.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 3,847 traffic fatalities in 2020—a year that saw a sharp rise in deaths related to alcohol and unrestrained passengers. Many of the common mistakes mentioned—like distracted driving or illegal parking—contribute to this serious toll. Some of those incidents might be preventable, but others require legal action and experienced help.
Why Even “Minor” Crashes Need Legal Help
Fender benders, low-speed collisions, or parking lot accidents may not feel like a big deal—until the pain sets in later or insurance starts playing hardball. Here’s what can go wrong:
- The other driver lies about what happened
- Insurance only pays for part of the damage
- Medical issues show up days later
This is where a personal injury lawyer Bakersfield becomes important. Whether it’s broken bones, whiplash, or back pain, the law allows victims to seek compensation for what was lost—including medical bills, time off work, and emotional distress.
Avrek Law has recovered Over $2 Billion for injury victims across California. Managing Attorney Maryam Parman started the team to help level the playing field. Big insurance companies don’t always play fair. But legal support means someone is looking out for the injured—not just the bottom line.
Pedestrian Laws: Are You Breaking Them Too?
California doesn’t just have complicated car laws. Pedestrian rules are confusing too—and ignoring them can cause serious harm. For example:
- Pedestrians don’t always have the right of way. Crossing outside a crosswalk can result in a pedestrian being to blame.
- Drivers must stop for any pedestrian in a crosswalk—even if they just stepped off the curb.
The law is clear: everyone has a role in preventing pedestrian injuries. But with so many distractions on the road and sidewalks, it’s becoming more dangerous to be a pedestrian.
And not all roads are created equal. According to the California Active Transportation Safety Information Pages (CATSIP), some of the most dangerous roads in California for pedestrians are right here in the Central Valley.
In places like Bakersfield, one mistake—by a driver or a walker—can lead to tragedy. Personal injury lawyers in Bakersfield can sort out who is at fault and what recovery options exist.
Bakersfield Drivers and Insurance Loopholes
Insurance companies know the road laws better than most drivers. And they use that to their advantage. For instance:
- If someone admits fault—even casually—it may reduce or erase their claim
- If a person breaks a small law, it might be used to say they were partly to blame
- Medical costs often rise weeks after the accident. But if no claim was filed early, it may be too late
The average driver doesn’t have the time or experience to deal with these tactics. That’s why Bakersfield personal injury lawyers are useful. They look at the whole picture—not just what happened in the crash, but everything that follows.
Keep These Safety Tips in Mind
While some laws are easy to forget, a few quick habits can make the roads safer:
- Always use turn signals—even in parking lots
- Don’t text or scroll while stopped at lights
- Use a Bluetooth device instead of holding a phone
- Keep the windshield and mirrors clear of objects
- Follow posted speed limits—even if others don’t
Getting used to these habits might take time, but they can prevent crashes—and maybe even save a life.
Hit With a Ticket or Hurt in a Wreck?
Whether it’s a parking mistake or a crash involving injury, it can spiral fast. Working with a Bakersfield injury lawyer can help prevent mistakes and protect the right to fair compensation. With over 50 years of combined experience helping victims across California, Avrek Law is here when it matters most.
Getting help is easy. Call 24/7 at 866-598-5548, fill out the form, or start a live chat now. Don’t let confusion over road rules cost time, money, or health. Legal support is one step away.