From E-Bikes to Self-Driving Cars: California’s New 2026 Traffic Laws

California has rolled out a sweeping set of new traffic and safety laws for 2026, aimed at addressing modern roadway risks — from e-bike crashes to autonomous vehicles.

Lawmakers say the goal is simple: reduce serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, as technology and transportation continue to evolve.

Why These Laws Matter

Head and brain injuries remain one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in traffic-related crashes.

According to national and state data:

• E-bike injuries have surged sharply in recent years
• Many injuries involve head trauma
• Trauma doctors report injuries resembling motorcycle-level impacts, not bicycle falls

These new laws focus on visibility, speed control, accountability, and prevention.

Key Traffic Law Changes Taking Effect in 2026

New E-Bike Safety Requirements 

E-bike riders must now follow stricter safety rules under AB 544 & SB 1271

• A rear red light or reflector is required at all times
• Applies day and night, not just after dark
• Minor riders cited for helmet violations may clear their record by completing a CHP-approved safety course
  

Battery safety is also addressed:

• Lithium-ion batteries must meet tested safety standards
• Products must be clearly labeled
• Aimed at reducing fire risks and malfunctions

Lawmakers say these rules respond directly to the rise in severe head injuries among young riders.

Slower School Zones

Local cities now have the authority to:

• Reduce school zone speed limits to 20 mph
• Add signage and enforcement around campuses

Lower speeds mean:

• Fewer collisions
• Reduced impact force
• Lower risk of traumatic brain injury in children

Autonomous Vehicles Face New Oversight

Self-driving cars are no longer operating in a gray zone. The AB 1777 establishes.

New rules for autonomous vehicles:

• Law enforcement can issue “notices of noncompliance”
• Manufacturers — not passengers — are held accountable
• Emergency responders must be able to safely interact with AVs

These measures aim to prevent serious injuries caused by system failures, not human error.

Speed Safety Camera Pilot Program

California is expanding automated enforcement:

• Speeding tickets issued via cameras, not officers
• Pilot program in six cities
• Focus on high-risk areas

Speed remains one of the largest contributors to fatal head injuries.

What Trauma Experts Are Seeing

Lawmakers cite alarming trends reported by doctors:

• More severe head trauma from e-bike crashes
• Injuries are closer to motorcycle collisions than bicycle falls
• Young riders are disproportionately affected

As legislator Dieane Papan noted, e-bikes are:

• Faster
• Heavier
• More powerful

Rights After a Brain Injury Under California Law

When a crash causes a traumatic brain injury, California law allows victims and families to pursue compensation based on three core areas: economic damages, non-economic damages, and liability.

Economic Damages (Financial Losses)

These cover measurable, out-of-pocket costs, including:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization
• Surgeries, imaging, and medications
• Neurological treatment and rehabilitation
• Physical, cognitive, and speech therapy
• Long-term or lifelong medical care
• In-home caregiving and assistive services
• Lost wages during recovery
• Reduced or lost future earning capacity
• Transportation and other injury-related expenses

Non-Economic Damages (Human Losses)

These address the personal and emotional impact of a brain injury:

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress and mental suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Cognitive impairment and memory loss
• Loss of independence
• Personality or behavioral changes
• Loss of consortium (impact on family relationships)

Brain injuries are often permanent. Non-economic damages recognize losses that cannot be measured with receipts.

Liability Analysis: Who May Be Responsible?

Liability depends on how and where the injury occurred.

Public property or roadway involved:

• Claims may be brought under California Government Code § 835
• Applies when a dangerous condition of public property contributed to the injury
• Includes unsafe road design, poor lighting, missing warnings, or hazardous conditions

Another driver involved:

• Negligence claims may apply under California traffic and personal injury law
• Comparative fault rules allow recovery even if the injured person shares some blame

Defective product involved:

• Manufacturers may be liable for unsafe vehicles, e-bikes, scooters, or components
• Includes brake failures, battery defects, or design flaws

Important: Multiple parties can share responsibility in a brain injury case.

How We Can Help

A brain injury can change a life in seconds — and affect a family forever. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in a traffic-related crash, contact the Brain Injury Help Center today. You don’t have to face this alone.

At the Brain Injury Help Center, we provide:

• Free consultations
• No-win, no-fee representation
• Comprehensive support, from medical guidance to legal options

The medical treatment you need, the money you deserve.