I wanted to pass this along to all those that didn't know and especially to those who will be visitng or moving CA. And please people, STOP at the Stop Signs. Those laws are enforced, too, in addition to it saving lives!

New Driving Fines for 2008 for State of California

1. Carpool lane - 1st time $1068.50 starting 7/1/08 (The $271 posted on the highway is old). Don't do it again because 2nd time is going to be double. 3rd time triple, and 4th time license suspended.

2. Incorrect lane change - $380. Don't cross the lane on solid lines or intersections.

3. Block intersection - $485

4. Driving on the shoulder - $450

5. Cell phone use in the construction zone. (whatever that means!) - Double fine as of 07/01/08.
Cell phone use must be "hands free" while driving.

6. Passengers over 18 not in their seat belts - both passengers and drivers
get tickets .

7. Speeders can only drive 3 miles above the limit.

8. DUI = JAIL (Stays on your driving record for 10 years!)

9. As of 07/01/08 cell phone use must be "hands free" while driving.
Ticket is $285. They will be looking for this like crazy - easy money for
police department.

Be sure to pass this on to visiting friends and family! Be safe, everyone!

The above appears to be inaccurate on several points:

Truth or Fiction on inaccuracies about new cell phone law

Basically, yes there is a new law starting on July 1 in California barring cell phone use while driving. But it's pretty mild. The other points all appear to be exaggerated or wrong.

If in fact they did come from the email cited in the link, I'd just remind people to ALWAYS do a search on key phrases from emails that claim to be authoritative on important issues, or that ask you to pass them on to others. There are more hoaxes than not in this area.

Thanks Jim, I'll check them out, which I should have done in the first place. I did't since it had come from a (supposedly) reliable source. *grumble grumble*

. . .

Edited to add:

On second thought...

Maybe this can stay to help others who received the same e-mail.