Do you have questions about general driving-related requirements like registration and insurance? Are you unclear about laws and restrictions related to driving? The California Department of Motor Vehicles has answers. “Save Time by Going Online” at www.dmv.ca.gov.     

Q: Why are some areas in my city called “double-fine” zones?

A: Due to increased accidents, injuries and fatalities, certain roads are designated as “Safety Enhanced-Double Fine Zones.” Fines are doubled in these areas and also in highway construction or maintenance zones when workers are present.

Pay extra attention where road work is being performed. Signs and message boards warn you of workers, slow-moving equipment and closed lanes ahead. Cones and/or drums will direct you to open lanes. Merge as soon as possible without crossing the cones or drums. Reduce your speed and be prepared to merge early, slow down or stop for highway equipment.

Don’t use your cellphone in a Cone Zone and keep your eyes on the road and vehicles ahead.      

Q: I’m planning on riding my bike to work. I did a test run of my route and found that some parts of the street didn’t have a shoulder or bicycle lane and the traffic lane was very narrow. Can I take the traffic lane and still be safe?

A:  When you’re faced with these conditions on the road, you can use the traffic lane, but make sure you ride closer to the center of the lane. This will prevent motorists from dangerously attempting to squeeze past you when there isn’t enough room.

You should also take the traffic lane when you’re traveling at the same speed as the traffic around you. This will keep you out of motorists’ blind spots and reduce conflicts with right-turning traffic.

    Q:  I know you have the California Driver Handbook available in English and Spanish. Are there any other languages available? I need an Armenian version.

A:  Absolutely. You can go onto the DMV’s website, www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/pubs.htm, to find PDF versions of each handbook. Languages available are Armenian, Chinese, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Tagalog and Vietnamese. You can also obtain handbooks at any of the department’s field offices or by calling the department’s telephone service center at (800) 777-0133.

Q: Are there any tips on what kinds of clothing to wear when riding a motorcycle so that I can make sure people will see me?

A:  Most crashes occur in broad daylight. However, it’s advisable to wear brightly colored clothing such as an orange, yellow or green jacket or vest to increase your chances of being seen at night. Brightly colored helmets can also help others see you. Reflective materials on a vest and on the sides of your helmet can be an option as well.

Q: I’m disabled and have a service animal with me at all times. Is my dog allowed to come with me into the DMV office?

A: Yes, they are allowed. Under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is any guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. Animals that meet this definition are considered service animals whether or not they’ve been licensed or certified by a state or local government.

Q: I almost got in a car crash when I was on a mountain road because I wasn’t sure what to do and neither was the other driver. Who has the right of way?

A:  When two vehicles meet on a steep road where neither can pass, the vehicle facing downhill must yield the right-of-way by backing up until the vehicle going uphill can pass. The vehicle facing downhill has the best control of the vehicle when backing up.