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California Vehicle Code

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California uses the California Vehicle Code (CVC) to regulate the ownership, registration, and operation of motor vehicles. The first version of this code appeared in 1935. It has been updated and modified countless times since that date. In fact, the entire code was reworked in the year 1959. Currently, the CVC contains 18 divisions dealing with the regulation of motor vehicles.

Understanding the statutes contained in the California Vehicle Code can challenge individuals without a legal background. The Simmrin Law Group can provide clear-cut information about this body of laws.

Uses of the California Vehicle Code

The California Vehicle Code dictates the rules that drivers have to follow on the road. The CVC contains instructions that must be followed by motor vehicle drivers and bicyclists. This body of law also includes information used to regulate the California Department of Motor Vehicles and the California Highway Patrol.

The Vehicle Code covers the acceptable weight and height limits for vehicles using California roads. The CVC also covers criminal acts related to the operation of motor vehicles. Drivers who are arrested for breaking the rules of the road will be charged under the CVC.

Examples of California Vehicle Code Sections

The California Vehicle Code is broken down into different sections to address different criminal acts and the penalties for disobeying traffic laws. Some examples of these sections include:

Drivers who break any of these laws can end up facing criminal charges. The court system in Los Angeles can handle breaches of the California Vehicle Code. In many cases, individuals who are accused of violating the CVC require the assistance of a professional criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.

Penalties for Violations of the California Vehicle Code

There are a number of severe legal penalties used to penalize drivers who violate the CVC. Individuals convicted of crimes involving motor vehicles may face:

  • High fines
  • Time in jail
  • The suspension of their License

Additionally, drivers charged with crimes involving alcohol may be required to attend alcohol treatment programs. In many cases, violations of the CVC act as “priorable” offenses. This means that a previous conviction will increase the penalties you face if you are charged with another driving offense.

Requesting a Hearing With the Department of Motor Vehicles

In many cases, charges tied to the CVC can be difficult to handle because they require a criminal trial and a hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Drivers who are accused of driving under the influence (DUI) must request a DMV hearing within 10 days. Otherwise, they will have their license suspended automatically.

The hearing with the DMV is entirely separate from the criminal case. You do not have to be convicted in your criminal case in order for the DMV to suspend your license. Often this action will occur before your criminal case even goes to trial.

Examples of Issues Addressed by the CVC

The CVC is designed to handle all cases involving drivers who disobey the rules of the road, such as:

Driver A accidentally allows her driver’s license to expire and continues to operate her vehicle. She is eventually pulled over because she has a taillight out. The police officer writes her a ticket for driving without a license. VC 12500 makes driving without a valid license a criminal act.

Driver B goes out to the bar with his friends. They all drink too much, but he decides he can drive home. He is stopped by a police officer for driving dangerously. He is charged with a DUI under California Vehicle Code 23152(a).

Driver C is celebrating graduating from high school with her friends. One of them has a bottle of champagne, and they all have a glass. She then drives home very slowly, worried about the fact that she has alcohol in her system. 

A cop pulls her over for driving well below the speed limit, and she is charged with Under 21 DUI With Any Measurable Amount of Alcohol under California Vehicle Code Section 23136. 

Driver D has just bought a new muscle car and is stopped at a red light. Driver E pulls up next to him in a Tesla. The two drivers make eye contact, and Driver D revs his engine. When the light changes, both drivers take off to see which car is faster. Suddenly flashing police lights fill their rearview mirror.

Both Driver D and Driver E are guilty of violating California Vehicle Code Section 23109(a): Engaging in a Speed Contest.

Where Can I Get a Copy of the California Vehicle Code

The California Vehicle Code can be downloaded as a PDF in its entirety from the California Department of Motor Vehicles’ official website. Alternatively, a print version can be purchased from any California DMV office. You can also buy the print version online by filling out the order form at www.dmv.ca.gov.

Learn More About the California Vehicle Code

The California Vehicle Code covers a wide range of subjects, including criminal acts involving motor vehicles. You can learn more about the penalties for breaking the CVC and options for a legal defense by contacting the Simmrin Law Group today for a free case evaluation.

Get more information about the CVC by giving us a call or filling out our online contact form. A lawyer who specializes in California vehicle code can explain the specific codes that apply to your case and tell you more about your options.