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California may be seeing safer roads in 2007 and Hybrid/Electric Vehicle owners will soon be able to take advantage of the carpool lanes while driving solo.
To summarize it, here are a few of the bigger changes to the California Road Rules in 2007 :

1. Carpool lane violations will be more strictly enforced – Violation in the Carpool lane has increased to a minimum of $341.
2. 10,000 additional “Carpool Lane for Single Driver” stickers will be permitted to drivers of hybrid and electric vehicles who’s applications are approved.
3. Passengers must wear seatbelts – Passengers over the age of 18, who are not using seat belts, will cause the driver and themselves to receive a ticket.
4. No “Trunking” (riding in the trunk) – Both driver and “Trunking” Passenger will receive Fines and Point(s) on their driving record.
5. Cell phone use while driving is STILL LEGAL in California until July 1st, 2008 – By then, you should already have and be using hands-free devices.
6. Jail for road racers – Reckless driving or engaging in a “speed contest” on the road that results in injury to anyone other than himself/herself will mean jail for 30 days to 6 months.

For more about…

• Qualifying Vehicles for Carpool Lane Use
• Prohibiting Drivers from Holding Cell Phones
• New Traffic Laws
• A Slew of New Laws