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As we move further into 2024, the rules of the road in California have evolved. For new drivers and seasoned commuters alike in Santa Clara, staying updated on these changes is crucial to avoiding fines and ensuring safety. At AAA Car Driving School, we believe that an informed driver is a safe driver. We incorporate all the latest legislative updates into our curriculum, ensuring that when you search for a driving school in Santa Clara, you are finding a partner that teaches the most current laws. Here is a breakdown of the critical updates you need to know this year.

The "Daylighting" Law (AB 413) One of the most significant changes affecting city driving in Santa Clara is Assembly Bill 413, often called the "Daylighting" law. This new rule prohibits parking, stopping, or standing a vehicle within 20 feet of the approach side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk.

Why it matters: The goal is to increase visibility for pedestrians. By clearing the area near crosswalks, drivers approaching an intersection can clearly see if someone is about to cross, and pedestrians can see oncoming traffic without stepping into the street.
For our students: In our lessons, we emphasize identifying these "no parking" zones even if the curb isn't painted red. We teach students to visually measure that 20-foot buffer zone to avoid expensive parking tickets and potential accidents.
Speed Camera Pilot Programs (AB 645) Speeding is a primary factor in traffic collisions. To combat this, California has authorized a pilot program for speed safety system cameras in several cities, including San Jose and designated areas in the Bay Area. While Santa Clara itself may have specific implementations, drivers moving through the neighboring San Jose area will encounter these automated systems.

How it works: These cameras automatically detect vehicles exceeding the speed limit by a specific margin. Unlike traditional traps, these result in civil penalties (fines) rather than criminal points on your record, but they can still be costly.
The Lesson: We teach our students that speed limits are not suggestions. Our instructors focus on "speed management"—maintaining a safe speed that matches the flow of traffic without exceeding the legal limit, especially in school zones and high-injury corridors where these cameras are likely to be placed.
Interactions with Law Enforcement (AB 2773) This law changes how traffic stops are conducted. As of 2024, police officers are generally required to state the reason for a traffic stop before they begin questioning the driver.

Rights and Responsibilities: This transparency is designed to de-escalate interactions. For new drivers, being pulled over can be terrifying. We coach our students on how to handle a traffic stop safely: pull over to a safe area, keep hands visible on the wheel, and now, listen for the officer’s statement of cause. Knowing what to expect reduces panic and helps young drivers interact respectfully and calmly with law enforcement.
Bicycle and E-Bike Safety With the popularity of cycling in Silicon Valley, interactions between cars and bikes are frequent. New regulations and continued emphasis on the "Three Feet for Safety" act are vital. Furthermore, E-bikes are now everywhere.

Sharing the Road: Our driving school in Santa Clara places heavy emphasis on scanning for cyclists, especially when making right turns (preventing the "right hook" accident). We teach students to treat E-bikes like small motorcycles due to their speed capabilities, requiring larger gaps for turning and merging.
Catalytic Converter Theft Laws While more of a vehicle ownership law than a driving rule, new laws (SB 55, AB 641) make it illegal to possess a catalytic converter without proof of ownership. This addresses the rampant theft seen in the Bay Area.

Defensive Parking: Part of our defensive driving curriculum includes choosing safe parking spots. We advise students to park in well-lit, high-traffic areas or garages to protect their vehicles, extending their "driving awareness" to when the car is parked.
Why Learn with AAA Car Driving School? Reading a blog post is a good start, but applying these laws in real-time requires practice. When you enroll in our Adult or Teen programs, you aren't just learning how to steer; you are learning the current legal landscape of California roads. Our DMV-licensed instructors are constantly updated on code changes to ensure you pass your written and road tests with flying colors. Don't rely on outdated advice; drive into the future with Santa Clara's trusted experts.