Road transport is a critical mode of conveying goods and people throughout California. The state has passed many statutes to regulate what types of vehicles are allowed to operate on public roads, and there are also regulations governing how vehicles must be maintained and driven. The California Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for regulating vehicle registration and use.
Vehicles Requiring Registration
Section 4000 of Article 1, Chapter 1 of the California Vehicle Code defines which vehicles must be registered in the state of California. All pole or pipe dollies, logging dollies, semi-trailers and trailers are included in this section, along with all other motor vehicles. Unregistered vehicles may not be moved or left standing on public roads or in public off-road parking facilities. This section does allow for unregistered vehicles to be towed on public roads if this is by the order of a sheriff or marshal, acting in accordance with a court order.
Inspection of Vehicles
Any member of the California Highway Patrol, a city police department, district attorney's investigator or member of the county sheriff's office, with the responsibility of investigating vehicle theft, has the authority to inspect any vehicle that must be registered for road use in California. The investigation can take place in a repair shop, public garage, parking lot or auto dismantler's lot, as well as on public roads. Officials are required to undertake inspections in such a way as to minimize disruption to any business operations affected by the inspection. Vehicle inspections are governed by Section 2805 of the California Vehicle Code.
Disclosure of Damages
Dealers involved in the sale of motor vehicles must give prospective purchasers written information regarding any material damage to the vehicle, even if it has been repaired, prior to the purchaser entering into a contract to purchase the vehicle. Material damage is defined as any damage to the drive train or frame of the vehicle, damage that occurred as a result of the vehicle being stolen, or damage to the suspension. Any damage, sustained in any way, that needed repairs exceeding 3 percent of the manufacturer's recommended retail price of the vehicle, or any repairs that totaled more than $500, must also be declared as material damage. Disclosure of damage is covered by Sections 9990 and 9991 of the California Vehicle Code.
Tags: California Vehicle, California Vehicle Code, public roads, Vehicle Code, vehicles must
