With California’s pervasive drunk and reckless driving problem, resulting in thousands of crashes every year, new traffic safety legislation has come into effect as of January 1, 2026.
The California personal injury attorneys at BD&J dive into how these new bills are emphasizing safe maneuvers on the road with penalization for drivers who don’t drive safely. Three of the most notable bills to be adopted in the state are AB 366, AB 1087, and SB 720. AB 366 and AB 1087 are meant to target drivers who have been convicted or charged with operating a vehicle under the influence, while SB 720 implements an automated camera program to enforce red light violations among daily traffic. BD&J’s car accident lawyers share key insights and takeaways for California drivers to be aware of as enforcement cracks down across the state.
AB 366 Extends Nationwide Pilot Program
AB 366 extends a nationwide pilot program that implemented ignition interlock devices (IDDs) into the vehicles operated by previously convicted DUI offenders until January 1st, 2033. These devices require a breathalyzer test to start, ensuring the driver is not trying to operate the vehicle while intoxicated. AB 1087 extends the probation time for drivers who are convicted of vehicular manslaughter or gross vehicular manslaughter from an initial 2 years to 3-5 years. “Alcohol-related roadway deaths are up 50% in the last decade, if you can believe it,” states BD&J Partner Lauren Horwitz, “[AB 366 and AB 1087] are working to stop and reverse that growth.”
SB 720 Authorizes Automated Traffic Enforcement Systems
To further reduce crashes on California roadways, especially for pedestrian and bike riders at intersections, SB 720 authorizes intersections and other places where drivers are required to stop to equip automated traffic enforcement systems in order to record any traffic violations at those locations. Cities where these traffic enforcement systems will be implemented include Los Angeles, Glendale, Oakland, San Jose, and the City and County of San Francisco. “California is the state with the highest number of pedestrian deaths in the country. It’s a statewide crisis,” remarks Partner Shawn McCann, “In our line of work, we see what happens with drunk or distracted drivers cause real, life-changing damage. The goal of these systems is to ensure intersection safety for all drivers and our most vulnerable road users, like pedestrians.”
BD&J Are No Strangers To Reckless Driving
BD&J is a personal injury law firm that has represented a multitude of clients injured in devastating car accidents, so the California personal injury attorneys are no strangers to reckless driving. “California drivers should be aware of the dangers of the road and act accordingly,” states BD&J Partner Owili Eison. “These new traffic safety and driving bills should serve to reduce the frequency of DUIs and also remind drivers of the duty of care they have to their fellow motorists and pedestrians.”
The impact of this new legislation can affect new and existing drivers on the road. California has the largest population in the nation, and with a dense population comes thousands of traffic-related fatalities annually. This new legislation may set the precedent for future bills related to reducing dangers on the road for both drivers and pedestrians.
About BD&J, PC: BD&J, PC, has served all Californians for over 20 years in many areas of personal injury law, including auto or truck accidents, motorcycle and pedestrian collisions, premises liability, commercial injury, dog bites, and more. Having represented tens of thousands of clients from all walks of life, the attorneys at BD&J are proud to protect the rights of individuals from anywhere in California at any time. To learn more, contact BD&J.
Media Contact: Juniper Elizondo – [email protected], 310-887-1818