Bill Text: CA SB438 | 2015-2016 | Regular Session | Amended
NOTE: There are more recent revisions of this legislation. Read Latest Draft
Bill Title: Earthquake safety: statewide earthquake early warning program and system.
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 9-5)
Status: (Passed) 2016-09-29 - Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 803, Statutes of 2016. [SB438 Detail]
Download: California-2015-SB438-Amended.html
Bill Title: Earthquake safety: statewide earthquake early warning program and system.
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 9-5)
Status: (Passed) 2016-09-29 - Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 803, Statutes of 2016. [SB438 Detail]
Download: California-2015-SB438-Amended.html
BILL NUMBER: SB 438 AMENDED BILL TEXT AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY JUNE 3, 2015 AMENDED IN SENATE APRIL 6, 2015 INTRODUCED BY Senator Hill FEBRUARY 25, 2015 An act toamendamend, repeal, and add Sections 116.870 and 116.880 of the Code of Civil Procedure, and toamendamend, repeal, and add Sections 1656.2, 12517.1, 13369, 16000, 16000.1, 16075, 16251, 16377, 16378, 16430, and 16434 of the Vehicle Code, relating to motor vehicles. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST SB 438, as amended, Hill. Motor vehicles: reportable property damage. Existing law requires the driver of every motor vehicle who is involved in an accident that results in damage to the property of any one person in excess of $750, or in bodily injury, or in the death of a person, to report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days after the accident, as specified. Under existing law that threshold amount of damages also serves as a condition, among others, for (1) the suspension of a judgment debtor' s driving privileges, as an aid in the enforcement of small claims or civil money judgments arising out of those accidents; and (2) the suspension or revocation of specified endorsements or certificates. This billwouldwould, beginning January 1, 2017, increase the minimum property damage that is required to be reported to $1,000. This bill would make conforming changes to those related provisions described above. Vote: majority. Appropriation: no. Fiscal committee: yes. State-mandated local program: no. THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Section 116.870 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read: 116.870. (a) Sections 16250 to 16381, inclusive, of the Vehicle Code, regarding the suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle for failing to satisfy a judgment, apply if the judgment (1) was for damage to property in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or for bodily injury to, or death of, a person in any amount, and (2) resulted from the operation of a motor vehicle upon a California highway by the defendant, or by any other person for whose conduct the defendant was liable, unless the liability resulted from the defendant's signing the application of a minor for a driver's license. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 2. Section 116.870 is added to the Code of Civil Procedure , to read: 116.870. (a) Sections 16250 to 16381, inclusive, of the Vehicle Code, regarding the suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle for failing to satisfy a judgment, apply if the judgment (1) was for damage to property in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or for bodily injury to, or death of, a person in any amount, and (2) resulted from the operation of a motor vehicle upon a California highway by the defendant, or by any other person for whose conduct the defendant was liable, unless the liability resulted from the defendant's signing the application of a minor for a driver's license. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 3. Section 116.880 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read: 116.880. (a) If the judgment (1) was for seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or less, (2) resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the defendant's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) has remained unsatisfied for more than 90 days after the judgment became final, the judgment creditor may file with the Department of Motor Vehicles a notice requesting a suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle. (b) The notice shall state that the judgment has not been satisfied, and shall be accompanied by (1) a fee set by the department, (2) the judgment of the court determining that the judgment resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the judgment debtor's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) a declaration that the judgment has not been satisfied. The fee shall be used by the department to finance the costs of administering this section andmayshall not exceed the department's actual costs. (c) Upon receipt of a notice, the department shall attempt to notify the judgment debtor by telephone, if possible, otherwise by certified mail, that the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle will be suspended for a period of 90 days, beginning 20 days after receipt of notice by the department from the judgment creditor, unless satisfactory proof, as provided in subdivision (e), is provided to the department before that date. (d) At the time the notice is filed, the department shall give the judgment creditor a copy of the notice thatshall indicateindicates the filing fee paid by the judgment creditor, andshall includeincludes a space to be signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging payment of the judgment by the judgment debtor. The judgment creditor shall mail or deliver a signed copy of the acknowledgment to the judgment debtor once the judgment is satisfied. (e) The department shall terminate the suspension, or the suspension proceedings, upon the occurrence of one or more of the following: (1) Receipt of proof that the judgment has been satisfied, either (A) by a copy of the notice required by this section signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging satisfaction of the judgment, or (B) by a declaration of the judgment debtor stating that the judgment has been satisfied. (2) Receipt of proof that the judgment debtor is complying with a court-ordered payment schedule. (3) Proof that the judgment debtor had insurance covering the accident sufficient to satisfy the judgment. (4) A deposit with the department of the amount of the unsatisfied judgment, if the judgment debtor presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor. (5) At the end of 90 days. (f)WhenIf the suspension has been terminated under subdivision (e), the action is final andmayshall not be reinstituted.WheneverIf the suspension is terminated, Section 14904 of the Vehicle Code shall apply. Money deposited with the department under this section shall be handled in the same manner as money deposited undersubdivision (d)paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16377 of the Vehicle Code. (g) A public agency is not liable for an injury caused by the suspension, termination of suspension, or the failure to suspend a person's privilege to operate a motor vehicle as authorized by this section. (h) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 4. Section 116.880 is added to the Code of Civil Procedure , to read: 116.880. (a) If the judgment (1) was for one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less, (2) resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the defendant's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) has remained unsatisfied for more than 90 days after the judgment became final, the judgment creditor may file with the Department of Motor Vehicles a notice requesting a suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle. (b) The notice shall state that the judgment has not been satisfied, and shall be accompanied by (1) a fee set by the department, (2) the judgment of the court determining that the judgment resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the judgment debtor's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) a declaration that the judgment has not been satisfied. The fee shall be used by the department to finance the costs of administering this section and shall not exceed the department's actual costs. (c) Upon receipt of a notice, the department shall attempt to notify the judgment debtor by telephone, if possible, otherwise by certified mail, that the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle will be suspended for a period of 90 days, beginning 20 days after receipt of notice by the department from the judgment creditor, unless satisfactory proof, as provided in subdivision (e), is provided to the department before that date. (d) At the time the notice is filed, the department shall give the judgment creditor a copy of the notice that indicates the filing fee paid by the judgment creditor, and includes a space to be signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging payment of the judgment by the judgment debtor. The judgment creditor shall mail or deliver a signed copy of the acknowledgment to the judgment debtor once the judgment is satisfied. (e) The department shall terminate the suspension, or the suspension proceedings, upon the occurrence of one or more of the following: (1) Receipt of proof that the judgment has been satisfied, either (A) by a copy of the notice required by this section signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging satisfaction of the judgment, or (B) by a declaration of the judgment debtor stating that the judgment has been satisfied. (2) Receipt of proof that the judgment debtor is complying with a court-ordered payment schedule. (3) Proof that the judgment debtor had insurance covering the accident sufficient to satisfy the judgment. (4) A deposit with the department of the amount of the unsatisfied judgment, if the judgment debtor presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor. (5) At the end of 90 days. (f) If the suspension has been terminated under subdivision (e), the action is final and shall not be reinstituted. If the suspension is terminated, Section 14904 of the Vehicle Code shall apply. Money deposited with the department under this section shall be handled in the same manner as money deposited under paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16377 of the Vehicle Code. (g) A public agency is not liable for an injury caused by the suspension, termination of suspension, or the failure to suspend a person's privilege to operate a motor vehicle as authorized by this section. (h) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 5. Section 1656.2 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 1656.2. (a) The department shall prepare and publish a printed summary describing the penalties for noncompliance with Sections 16000 and 16028, which shall be included with each motor vehicle registration, registration renewal, and transfer of registration and with each driver's license and license renewal. The printed summary may contain, but is not limited to, the following wording: "IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ENFORCEMENT OF CALIFORNIA'S COMPULSORY FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW California law requires every driver to carry written evidence of valid automobile liability insurance,a thirty-five thousand dollar ($35,000) bond, a thirty-five thousand dollar ($35,000)a $35,000 bond, a $35,000 cash deposit, or a certificate of self-insurance that has been issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You must provide evidence of financial responsibility when you renew the registration of a motor vehicle, and after you are cited by a peace officer for a traffic violation or are involved in any traffic accident. The law requires that you provide the officer with the name and address of your insurer and the policy identification number. Your insurer will provide written evidence of this number. Failure to provide evidence of your financial responsibility can result in fines of up tofive hundred dollars ($500)$500 and loss of your driver's license. Falsification of evidence can result in fines of up toseven hundred fifty dollars ($750)$750 or 30 days in jail, or both, in addition to a one-year suspension of driving privileges. Under existing California law, if you are involved in an accident that results in damages of overseven hundred fifty dollars ($750)$750 to the property of any person or in any injury or fatality, you must file a report of the accident with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the accident. If you fail to file a report or fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility on the report, your driving privilege will be suspended for up to four years. Your suspension notice will notify you of the department's action and of your right to a hearing. Your suspension notice will also inform you that if you request a hearing, it must be conducted within 30 days of your written request, and that a decision is to be rendered within 15 days of the conclusion of the hearing." (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 6. Section 1656.2 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 1656.2. (a) The department shall prepare and publish a printed summary describing the penalties for noncompliance with Sections 16000 and 16028, which shall be included with each motor vehicle registration, registration renewal, and transfer of registration and with each driver's license and license renewal. The printed summary may contain, but is not limited to, the following wording: "IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ENFORCEMENT OF CALIFORNIA'S COMPULSORY FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW California law requires every driver to carry written evidence of valid automobile liability insurance, a $35,000 bond, a $35,000 cash deposit, or a certificate of self-insurance that has been issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You must provide evidence of financial responsibility when you renew the registration of a motor vehicle, and after you are cited by a peace officer for a traffic violation or are involved in any traffic accident. The law requires that you provide the officer with the name and address of your insurer and the policy identification number. Your insurer will provide written evidence of this number. Failure to provide evidence of your financial responsibility can result in fines of up to $500 and loss of your driver's license. Falsification of evidence can result in fines of up to $750 or 30 days in jail, or both, in addition to a one-year suspension of driving privileges. Under existing California law, if you are involved in an accident that results in damages of over $1,000 to the property of any person or in any injury or fatality, you must file a report of the accident with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the accident. If you fail to file a report or fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility on the report, your driving privilege will be suspended for up to four years. Your suspension notice will notify you of the department's action and of your right to a hearing. Your suspension notice will also inform you that if you request a hearing, it must be conducted within 30 days of your written request, and that a decision is to be rendered within 15 days of the conclusion of the hearing." (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 7. Section 12517.1 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 12517.1. (a) A "schoolbus accident" means any of the following: (1) A motor vehicle accident resulting in property damage in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or personal injury, on public or private property, and involving a schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, or general public paratransit vehicle transporting a pupil. (2) A collision between a vehicle and a pupil or a schoolbus driver while the pupil or driver is crossing the highway when the schoolbus flashing red signal lamps are required to be operated pursuant to Section 22112 or when the schoolbus is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading pupils. (3) Injury of a pupil inside a vehicle described in paragraph (1) as a result of acceleration, deceleration, or other movement of the vehicle. (b) The Department of the California Highway Patrol shall investigate all schoolbus accidents, except that accidents involving only property damage and occurring entirely on private property shall be investigated only if they involve a violation of this code. (c) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 8. Section 12517.1 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 12517.1. (a) A "schoolbus accident" means any of the following: (1) A motor vehicle accident resulting in property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or personal injury, on public or private property, and involving a schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, or general public paratransit vehicle transporting a pupil. (2) A collision between a vehicle and a pupil or a schoolbus driver while the pupil or driver is crossing the highway when the schoolbus flashing red signal lamps are required to be operated pursuant to Section 22112 or when the schoolbus is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading pupils. (3) Injury of a pupil inside a vehicle described in paragraph (1) as a result of acceleration, deceleration, or other movement of the vehicle. (b) The Department of the California Highway Patrol shall investigate all schoolbus accidents, except that accidents involving only property damage and occurring entirely on private property shall be investigated only if they involve a violation of this code. (c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 9. Section 13369 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 13369. (a) This section applies to the following endorsements and certificates: (1) Passenger transportation vehicle. (2) Hazardous materials. (3) Schoolbus. (4) School pupil activity bus. (5) Youth bus. (6) General public paratransit vehicle. (7) Farm labor vehicle. (8) Vehicle used for the transportation of developmentally disabled persons. (b) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall revoke, the certificate or endorsement ofanya person who meets the following conditions: (1) Within three years, has committed any violation that results in a conviction assigned a violation point count of two or more, as defined in Sections 12810 and 12810.5. The departmentmayshall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's hazardous materials or passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the violation leading to the conviction occurred in the person's private vehicle and not in a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in Section 15210. (2) Within three years, has had his or her driving privilege suspended, revoked, or on probation for any reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. The departmentmayshall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the person's driving privilege has, within three years, been placed on probation only foranya reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. (3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), does not meet the qualifications for issuance of a hazardous materials endorsement set forth in Parts 383, 384, and 1572 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. (c) The department may refuse to issue or renew, or may suspend or revoke, the certificate or endorsement ofanya person who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Within 12 months, has been involved as a driver in three accidents in which the driver caused or contributed to the causes of the accidents. (2) Within 24 months, as a driver, caused or contributed to the cause of an accident resulting in a fatality or serious injury or serious property damage in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750). (3) Has violated any provision of this code, or any rule or regulation pertaining to the safe operation of a vehicle for which the certificate or endorsement was issued. (4) Has violated any restriction of the certificate, endorsement, or commercial driver's license. (5) Has knowingly made a false statement or failed to disclose a material fact on an application for a certificate or endorsement. (6) Has been determined by the department to be a negligent or incompetent operator. (7) Has demonstrated irrational behavior to the extent that a reasonable and prudent person would have reasonable cause to believe that the applicant's ability to perform the duties of a driver may be impaired. (8) Excessively or habitually uses, or is addicted to, alcoholic beverages, narcotics, or dangerous drugs. (9) Does not meet the minimum medical standards established or approved by the department. (d) The department may cancel the certificate or endorsement of any driver who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Does not have a valid driver's license of the appropriate class. (2) Has requested cancellation of the certificate or endorsement. (3) Has failed to meet any of the requirements for issuance or retention of the certificate or endorsement, including, but not limited to, payment of the proper fee, submission of an acceptable medical report and fingerprint cards, and compliance with prescribed training requirements. (4) Has had his or her driving privilege suspended or revoked for a cause involving other than the safe operation of a motor vehicle. (e) (1) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall suspend or revoke, the passenger vehicle endorsement of a person who violates subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code. (2) A person found to be in violation of subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code shall be ineligible for a passenger vehicle endorsement that would permit him or her to drive a bus of any kind, including, but not limited to, a bus, schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, trailer bus, or a transit bus, with passengers, for a period of five years. (f) (1) Reapplication following refusal or revocation under subdivision (b) or (c) may be made after a period of not less than one year from the effective date of denial or revocation, except in cases where a longer period of suspension or revocation is required by law. (2) Reapplication following cancellation under subdivision (d) may be made at any time without prejudice. (g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 10. Section 13369 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 13369. (a) This section applies to the following endorsements and certificates: (1) Passenger transportation vehicle. (2) Hazardous materials. (3) Schoolbus. (4) School pupil activity bus. (5) Youth bus. (6) General public paratransit vehicle. (7) Farm labor vehicle. (8) Vehicle used for the transportation of developmentally disabled persons. (b) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall revoke, the certificate or endorsement of a person who meets the following conditions: (1) Within three years, has committed any violation that results in a conviction assigned a violation point count of two or more, as defined in Sections 12810 and 12810.5. The department shall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's hazardous materials or passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the violation leading to the conviction occurred in the person's private vehicle and not in a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in Section 15210. (2) Within three years, has had his or her driving privilege suspended, revoked, or on probation for any reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. The department shall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the person's driving privilege has, within three years, been placed on probation only for a reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. (3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), does not meet the qualifications for issuance of a hazardous materials endorsement set forth in Parts 383, 384, and 1572 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. (c) The department may refuse to issue or renew, or may suspend or revoke, the certificate or endorsement of a person who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Within 12 months, has been involved as a driver in three accidents in which the driver caused or contributed to the causes of the accidents. (2) Within 24 months, as a driver, caused or contributed to the cause of an accident resulting in a fatality or serious injury or serious property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000). (3) Has violated any provision of this code, or any rule or regulation pertaining to the safe operation of a vehicle for which the certificate or endorsement was issued. (4) Has violated any restriction of the certificate, endorsement, or commercial driver's license. (5) Has knowingly made a false statement or failed to disclose a material fact on an application for a certificate or endorsement. (6) Has been determined by the department to be a negligent or incompetent operator. (7) Has demonstrated irrational behavior to the extent that a reasonable and prudent person would have reasonable cause to believe that the applicant's ability to perform the duties of a driver may be impaired. (8) Excessively or habitually uses, or is addicted to, alcoholic beverages, narcotics, or dangerous drugs. (9) Does not meet the minimum medical standards established or approved by the department. (d) The department may cancel the certificate or endorsement of any driver who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Does not have a valid driver's license of the appropriate class. (2) Has requested cancellation of the certificate or endorsement. (3) Has failed to meet any of the requirements for issuance or retention of the certificate or endorsement, including, but not limited to, payment of the proper fee, submission of an acceptable medical report and fingerprint cards, and compliance with prescribed training requirements. (4) Has had his or her driving privilege suspended or revoked for a cause involving other than the safe operation of a motor vehicle. (e) (1) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall suspend or revoke, the passenger vehicle endorsement of a person who violates subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code. (2) A person found to be in violation of subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code shall be ineligible for a passenger vehicle endorsement that would permit him or her to drive a bus of any kind, including, but not limited to, a bus, schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, trailer bus, or a transit bus, with passengers, for a period of five years. (f) (1) Reapplication following refusal or revocation under subdivision (b) or (c) may be made after a period of not less than one year from the effective date of denial or revocation, except in cases where a longer period of suspension or revocation is required by law. (2) Reapplication following cancellation under subdivision (d) may be made at any time without prejudice. (g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 11. Section 16000 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16000. (a) The driver of a motor vehicle who is in any manner involved in an accident originating from the operation of the motor vehicle on a street or highway, or is involved in a reportable off-highway accident, as defined in Section 16000.1, that has resulted in damage to the property of any one person in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750), or in bodily injury, or in the death of any person shall report the accident, within 10 days after the accident, either personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative, on a form approved by the department, to the office of the department at Sacramento, subject to this chapter. The driver shall identify on the form, by name and current residence address, if available, any person involved in the accident complaining of bodily injury. (b) A report is not required under subdivision (a) if the motor vehicle involved in the accident was owned or leased by, or under the direction of, the United States, this state, another state, or a local agency. (c) If none of the parties involved in an accident has reported the accident to the department under this section within one year following the date of the accident, the department is not required to file a report on the accident and the driver's license suspension requirements of Section 16004 or 16070 do not apply. (d) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 12. Section 16000 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16000. (a) The driver of a motor vehicle who is in any manner involved in an accident originating from the operation of the motor vehicle on a street or highway, or is involved in a reportable off-highway accident, as defined in Section 16000.1, that has resulted in damage to the property of any one person in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or in bodily injury, or in the death of any person shall report the accident, within 10 days after the accident, either personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative, on a form approved by the department, to the office of the department at Sacramento, subject to this chapter. The driver shall identify on the form, by name and current residence address, if available, any person involved in the accident complaining of bodily injury. (b) A report is not required under subdivision (a) if the motor vehicle involved in the accident was owned or leased by, or under the direction of, the United States, this state, another state, or a local agency. (c) If none of the parties involved in an accident has reported the accident to the department under this section within one year following the date of the accident, the department is not required to file a report on the accident and the driver's license suspension requirements of Section 16004 or 16070 do not apply. (d) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 13. Section 16000.1 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16000.1. (a) For purposes of this division, a "reportable off-highway accident" means an accidentwhichthat includes all of the following: (1) Occurs off the street or highway. (2) Involves a vehicle that is subject to registration under this code. (3) Results in damages to the property of any one person in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or in bodily injury or in the death of any person. (b) A "reportable off-highway accident" does not include any accidentwhichthat occurs off-highway in which damage occurs only to the property of the driver or owner of the motor vehicle and no bodily injury or death of a person occurs. (c) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 14. Section 16000.1 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16000.1. (a) For purposes of this division, a "reportable off-highway accident" means an accident that includes all of the following: (1) Occurs off the street or highway. (2) Involves a vehicle that is subject to registration under this code. (3) Results in damages to the property of any one person in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or in bodily injury or in the death of any person. (b) A "reportable off-highway accident" does not include any accident that occurs off-highway in which damage occurs only to the property of the driver or owner of the motor vehicle and no bodily injury or death of a person occurs. (c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 15. Section 16075 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16075. (a) The suspension provisions of this article shall not apply to a driver or owner until 30 days after the department sends to the driver or owner notice of its intent to suspend his or her driving privilege, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 16070, and advises the driver or owner of his or her right to a hearing ashereinafter provided.provided in this section. (b) If the driver or owner receiving the notice of intent to suspend wishes to have a hearing, the request for a hearing shall be made in writing to the department within 10 days of the receipt of the notice. Failure to respond to a notice of intent within 10 days of receipt of the notice is a waiver of the person's right to a hearing. (c) If the driver or owner makes a timely request for a hearing, the department shall hold the hearing before the effective date of the suspension to determine the applicability of this chapter to the driver or owner, including a determination of whether: (1) The accident has resulted in property damage in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750), or bodily injury, or death. (2) The driver or owner has established evidence of financial responsibility, as provided in Article 3 (commencing with Section 16050), that was in effect at the time of the accident. (d) A request for a hearing does not stay the suspension of a person's driving privilege. However, if the department does not conduct a hearing and make a determination pursuant thereto within the time limit provided in subdivision (b) of Section 16070, the department shall stay the effective date of the order of suspension pending a determination. (e) The hearing provided for by this section shall be held in the county of residence of the person requesting the hearing. The hearing shall be conducted pursuant to Article 3 (commencing with Section 14100) of Chapter 3 of Division 6. (f) The department shall render its decision within 15 days after conclusion of the hearing. (g) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 16. Section 16075 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16075. (a) The suspension provisions of this article shall not apply to a driver or owner until 30 days after the department sends to the driver or owner notice of its intent to suspend his or her driving privilege, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 16070, and advises the driver or owner of his or her right to a hearing as provided in this section. (b) If the driver or owner receiving the notice of intent to suspend wishes to have a hearing, the request for a hearing shall be made in writing to the department within 10 days of the receipt of the notice. Failure to respond to a notice of intent within 10 days of receipt of the notice is a waiver of the person's right to a hearing. (c) If the driver or owner makes a timely request for a hearing, the department shall hold the hearing before the effective date of the suspension to determine the applicability of this chapter to the driver or owner, including a determination of whether: (1) The accident has resulted in property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or bodily injury, or death. (2) The driver or owner has established evidence of financial responsibility, as provided in Article 3 (commencing with Section 16050), that was in effect at the time of the accident. (d) A request for a hearing does not stay the suspension of a person's driving privilege. However, if the department does not conduct a hearing and make a determination pursuant thereto within the time limit provided in subdivision (b) of Section 16070, the department shall stay the effective date of the order of suspension pending a determination. (e) The hearing provided for by this section shall be held in the county of residence of the person requesting the hearing. The hearing shall be conducted pursuant to Article 3 (commencing with Section 14100) of Chapter 3 of Division 6. (f) The department shall render its decision within 15 days after conclusion of the hearing. (g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 17. Section 16251 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16251. (a) As used in this chapter and Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 16430), "cause of action" means any cause of action for damage to property in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) or for damage in any amount on account of bodily injury to or death of any person resulting from the operation by the defendant or any other person of any motor vehicle upon a highway in this state, except a cause of action based upon statutory liability by reason of signing the application of a minor for a driver's license. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 18. Section 16251 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16251. (a) As used in this chapter and Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 16430), "cause of action" means any cause of action for damage to property in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000) or for damage in any amount on account of bodily injury to or death of any person resulting from the operation by the defendant or any other person of any motor vehicle upon a highway in this state, except a cause of action based upon statutory liability by reason of signing the application of a minor for a driver's license. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 19. Section 16377 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16377.Every judgment shall for(a) For the purposes of thischapter be deemed satisfied:chapter, every judgment shall be deemed satisfied if any of the following apply:(a) When fifteen(1) Fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of one person as a result of any one accident.(b) When, subject(2) Subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) as to one person, the sum of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of more than one person as a result of any one accident.(c) When five(3) Five thousand dollars ($5,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, each of which is in excess of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750), and which together total in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000), for damage to property of others as a result of any one accident.(d) When the(4) The judgment debtor or a person designated by him or her has deposited with the department a sum equal to the amount of the unsatisfied judgment for which the suspension action was taken and presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 20. Section 16377 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16377. (a) For the purposes of this chapter, every judgment shall be deemed satisfied if any of the following apply: (1) Fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of one person as a result of any one accident. (2) Subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) as to one person, the sum of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of more than one person as a result of any one accident. (3) Five thousand dollars ($5,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, each of which is in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), and which together total in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000), for damage to property of others as a result of any one accident. (4) The judgment debtor or a person designated by him or her has deposited with the department a sum equal to the amount of the unsatisfied judgment for which the suspension action was taken and presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 21. Section 16378 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16378. (a) Money deposited pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 16377 shall be:(a)(1) Deposited by the department in the special deposit fund with theStateTreasurer.(b)(2) Payable to the judgment creditor upon presentation of a valid claim establishing that he or she is the judgment creditor for which the deposit was made and that the judgment remains unsatisfied.(c)(3) Refunded to the person making the deposit or to a person designated byhimhimself or herself if the deposit remains unclaimed by the judgment creditor for a period of two years following the date of the deposit.(d)(4) TheStateController shall draw his or her warrant on theStateTreasurer for any payment ordered pursuant to this section as ordered by the department. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 22. Section 16378 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16378. (a) Money deposited pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 16377 shall be: (1) Deposited by the department in the special deposit fund with the Treasurer. (2) Payable to the judgment creditor upon presentation of a valid claim establishing that he or she is the judgment creditor for which the deposit was made and that the judgment remains unsatisfied. (3) Refunded to the person making the deposit or to a person designated by himself or herself if the deposit remains unclaimed by the judgment creditor for a period of two years following the date of the deposit. (4) The Controller shall draw his or her warrant on the Treasurer for any payment ordered pursuant to this section as ordered by the department. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 23. Section 16430 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16430.Proof of financial responsibility when required by this code(a) "proof of financial responsibility" when required by this code, means proof of financial responsibility resulting from the ownership or operation of a motor vehicle and arising by reason of personal injury to, or death of, any one person, of at least fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000), and, subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) for each person injured or killed, of at least thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) for the injury to, or the death of, two or more persons in any one accident, and for damages to property(inin excess of seven hundred fifty dollars($750)),($750), of at least five thousand dollars ($5,000) resulting from any one accident. Proof of financial responsibility may be given in any manner authorized in this chapter. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 24. Section 16430 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16430. (a) "Proof of financial responsibility," when required by this code, means proof of financial responsibility resulting from the ownership or operation of a motor vehicle and arising by reason of personal injury to, or death of, any one person, of at least fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000), and, subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) for each person injured or killed, of at least thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) for the injury to, or the death of, two or more persons in any one accident, and for damages to property in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), of at least five thousand dollars ($5,000) resulting from any one accident. Proof of financial responsibility may be given in any manner authorized in this chapter. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017. SEC. 25. Section 16434 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16434. (a) Proof of financial responsibility may be given by a bond. The bond shall be conditioned for the payment of the amount specified in Section 16430, and shall provide for the entry of judgment on motion of the state in favor of any holder of any final judgment on account of damages to property over seven hundred fifty dollars ($750) in amount, or injury to any person caused by the operation of the person's motor vehicle. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2017, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2017, deletes or extends that date. SEC. 26. Section 16434 is added to the Vehicle Code , to read: 16434. (a) Proof of financial responsibility may be given by a bond. The bond shall be conditioned for the payment of the amount specified in Section 16430, and shall provide for the entry of judgment on motion of the state in favor of any holder of any final judgment on account of damages to property over one thousand dollars ($1,000) in amount, or injury to any person caused by the operation of the person's motor vehicle. (b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2017.SECTION 1.Section 116.870 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read: 116.870. Sections 16250 to 16381, inclusive, of the Vehicle Code, regarding the suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle for failing to satisfy a judgment, apply if the judgment (1) was for damage to property in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or for bodily injury to, or death of, a person in any amount, and (2) resulted from the operation of a motor vehicle upon a California highway by the defendant, or by any other person for whose conduct the defendant was liable, unless the liability resulted from the defendant's signing the application of a minor for a driver's license.SEC. 2.Section 116.880 of the Code of Civil Procedure is amended to read: 116.880. (a) If the judgment (1) was for one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less, (2) resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the defendant's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) has remained unsatisfied for more than 90 days after the judgment became final, the judgment creditor may file with the Department of Motor Vehicles a notice requesting a suspension of the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle. (b) The notice shall state that the judgment has not been satisfied, and shall be accompanied by (1) a fee set by the department, (2) the judgment of the court determining that the judgment resulted from a motor vehicle accident occurring on a California highway caused by the judgment debtor's operation of a motor vehicle, and (3) a declaration that the judgment has not been satisfied. The fee shall be used by the department to finance the costs of administering this section and shall not exceed the department's actual costs. (c) Upon receipt of a notice, the department shall attempt to notify the judgment debtor by telephone, if possible, otherwise by certified mail, that the judgment debtor's privilege to operate a motor vehicle will be suspended for a period of 90 days, beginning 20 days after receipt of notice by the department from the judgment creditor, unless satisfactory proof, as provided in subdivision (e), is provided to the department before that date. (d) At the time the notice is filed, the department shall give the judgment creditor a copy of the notice that indicates the filing fee paid by the judgment creditor, and includes a space to be signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging payment of the judgment by the judgment debtor. The judgment creditor shall mail or deliver a signed copy of the acknowledgment to the judgment debtor once the judgment is satisfied. (e) The department shall terminate the suspension, or the suspension proceedings, upon the occurrence of one or more of the following: (1) Receipt of proof that the judgment has been satisfied, either (A) by a copy of the notice required by this section signed by the judgment creditor acknowledging satisfaction of the judgment, or (B) by a declaration of the judgment debtor stating that the judgment has been satisfied. (2) Receipt of proof that the judgment debtor is complying with a court-ordered payment schedule. (3) Proof that the judgment debtor had insurance covering the accident sufficient to satisfy the judgment. (4) A deposit with the department of the amount of the unsatisfied judgment, if the judgment debtor presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor. (5) At the end of 90 days. (f) If the suspension has been terminated under subdivision (e), the action is final and shall not be reinstituted. If the suspension is terminated, Section 14904 of the Vehicle Code shall apply. Money deposited with the department under this section shall be handled in the same manner as money deposited under subdivision (d) of Section 16377 of the Vehicle Code. (g) A public agency is not liable for an injury caused by the suspension, termination of suspension, or the failure to suspend a person's privilege to operate a motor vehicle as authorized by this section.SEC. 3.Section 1656.2 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 1656.2. The department shall prepare and publish a printed summary describing the penalties for noncompliance with Sections 16000 and 16028, which shall be included with each motor vehicle registration, registration renewal, and transfer of registration and with each driver's license and license renewal. The printed summary may contain, but is not limited to, the following wording: "IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ENFORCEMENT OF CALIFORNIA'S COMPULSORY FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY LAW California law requires every driver to carry written evidence of valid automobile liability insurance, a $35,000 bond, a $35,000 cash deposit, or a certificate of self-insurance that has been issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You must provide evidence of financial responsibility when you renew the registration of a motor vehicle, and after you are cited by a peace officer for a traffic violation or are involved in any traffic accident. The law requires that you provide the officer with the name and address of your insurer and the policy identification number. Your insurer will provide written evidence of this number. Failure to provide evidence of your financial responsibility can result in fines of up to $500 and loss of your driver's license. Falsification of evidence can result in fines of up to $750 or 30 days in jail, or both, in addition to a one-year suspension of driving privileges. Under existing California law, if you are involved in an accident that results in damages of over $1,000 to the property of any person or in any injury or fatality, you must file a report of the accident with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the accident. If you fail to file a report or fail to provide evidence of financial responsibility on the report, your driving privilege will be suspended for up to four years. Your suspension notice will notify you of the department's action and of your right to a hearing. Your suspension notice will also inform you that if you request a hearing, it must be conducted within 30 days of your written request, and that a decision is to be rendered within 15 days of the conclusion of the hearing."SEC. 4.Section 12517.1 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 12517.1. (a) A "schoolbus accident" means any of the following: (1) A motor vehicle accident resulting in property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or personal injury, on public or private property, and involving a schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, or general public paratransit vehicle transporting a pupil. (2) A collision between a vehicle and a pupil or a schoolbus driver while the pupil or driver is crossing the highway when the schoolbus flashing red signal lamps are required to be operated pursuant to Section 22112 or when the schoolbus is stopped for the purpose of loading or unloading pupils. (3) Injury of a pupil inside a vehicle described in paragraph (1) as a result of acceleration, deceleration, or other movement of the vehicle. (b) The Department of the California Highway Patrol shall investigate all schoolbus accidents, except that accidents involving only property damage and occurring entirely on private property shall be investigated only if they involve a violation of this code.SEC. 5.Section 13369 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 13369. (a) This section applies to the following endorsements and certificates: (1) Passenger transportation vehicle. (2) Hazardous materials. (3) Schoolbus. (4) School pupil activity bus. (5) Youth bus. (6) General public paratransit vehicle. (7) Farm labor vehicle. (8) Vehicle used for the transportation of developmentally disabled persons. (b) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall revoke, the certificate or endorsement of a person who meets the following conditions: (1) Within three years, has committed any violation that results in a conviction assigned a violation point count of two or more, as defined in Sections 12810 and 12810.5. The department shall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's hazardous materials or passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the violation leading to the conviction occurred in the person's private vehicle and not in a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in Section 15210. (2) Within three years, has had his or her driving privilege suspended, revoked, or on probation for any reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. The department shall not refuse to issue or renew, nor may it revoke, a person's passenger transportation vehicle endorsement if the person's driving privilege has, within three years, been placed on probation only for a reason involving unsafe operation of a motor vehicle. (3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), does not meet the qualifications for issuance of a hazardous materials endorsement set forth in Parts 383, 384, and 1572 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. (c) The department may refuse to issue or renew, or may suspend or revoke, the certificate or endorsement of a person who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Within 12 months, has been involved as a driver in three accidents in which the driver caused or contributed to the causes of the accidents. (2) Within 24 months, as a driver, caused or contributed to the cause of an accident resulting in a fatality or serious injury or serious property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000). (3) Has violated any provision of this code, or any rule or regulation pertaining to the safe operation of a vehicle for which the certificate or endorsement was issued. (4) Has violated any restriction of the certificate, endorsement, or commercial driver's license. (5) Has knowingly made a false statement or failed to disclose a material fact on an application for a certificate or endorsement. (6) Has been determined by the department to be a negligent or incompetent operator. (7) Has demonstrated irrational behavior to the extent that a reasonable and prudent person would have reasonable cause to believe that the applicant's ability to perform the duties of a driver may be impaired. (8) Excessively or habitually uses, or is addicted to, alcoholic beverages, narcotics, or dangerous drugs. (9) Does not meet the minimum medical standards established or approved by the department. (d) The department may cancel the certificate or endorsement of any driver who meets any of the following conditions: (1) Does not have a valid driver's license of the appropriate class. (2) Has requested cancellation of the certificate or endorsement. (3) Has failed to meet any of the requirements for issuance or retention of the certificate or endorsement, including, but not limited to, payment of the proper fee, submission of an acceptable medical report and fingerprint cards, and compliance with prescribed training requirements. (4) Has had his or her driving privilege suspended or revoked for a cause involving other than the safe operation of a motor vehicle. (e) (1) The department shall refuse to issue or renew, or shall suspend or revoke, the passenger vehicle endorsement of a person who violates subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code. (2) A person found to be in violation of subdivision (b) of Section 5387 of the Public Utilities Code shall be ineligible for a passenger vehicle endorsement that would permit him or her to drive a bus of any kind, including, but not limited to, a bus, schoolbus, youth bus, school pupil activity bus, trailer bus, or a transit bus, with passengers, for a period of five years. (f) (1) Reapplication following refusal or revocation under subdivision (b) or (c) may be made after a period of not less than one year from the effective date of denial or revocation, except in cases where a longer period of suspension or revocation is required by law. (2) Reapplication following cancellation under subdivision (d) may be made at any time without prejudice.SEC. 6.Section 16000 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16000. (a) The driver of a motor vehicle who is in any manner involved in an accident originating from the operation of the motor vehicle on a street or highway, or is involved in a reportable off-highway accident, as defined in Section 16000.1, that has resulted in damage to the property of any one person in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or in bodily injury, or in the death of any person shall report the accident, within 10 days after the accident, either personally or through an insurance agent, broker, or legal representative, on a form approved by the department, to the office of the department at Sacramento, subject to this chapter. The driver shall identify on the form, by name and current residence address, if available, any person involved in the accident complaining of bodily injury. (b) A report is not required under subdivision (a) if the motor vehicle involved in the accident was owned or leased by, or under the direction of, the United States, this state, another state, or a local agency. (c) If none of the parties involved in an accident has reported the accident to the department under this section within one year following the date of the accident, the department is not required to file a report on the accident and the driver's license suspension requirements of Section 16004 or 16070 do not apply.SEC. 7.Section 16000.1 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16000.1. (a) For purposes of this division, a "reportable off-highway accident" means an accident that includes all of the following: (1) Occurs off the street or highway. (2) Involves a vehicle that is subject to registration under this code. (3) Results in damages to the property of any one person in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or in bodily injury or in the death of any person. (b) A "reportable off-highway accident" does not include any accident that occurs off-highway in which damage occurs only to the property of the driver or owner of the motor vehicle and no bodily injury or death of a person occurs.SEC. 8.Section 16075 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16075. (a) The suspension provisions of this article shall not apply to a driver or owner until 30 days after the department sends to the driver or owner notice of its intent to suspend his or her driving privilege, pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 16070, and advises the driver or owner of his or her right to a hearing as provided in this section. (b) If the driver or owner receiving the notice of intent to suspend wishes to have a hearing, the request for a hearing shall be made in writing to the department within 10 days of the receipt of the notice. Failure to respond to a notice of intent within 10 days of receipt of the notice is a waiver of the person's right to a hearing. (c) If the driver or owner makes a timely request for a hearing, the department shall hold the hearing before the effective date of the suspension to determine the applicability of this chapter to the driver or owner, including a determination of whether: (1) The accident has resulted in property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or bodily injury, or death. (2) The driver or owner has established evidence of financial responsibility, as provided in Article 3 (commencing with Section 16050), that was in effect at the time of the accident. (d) A request for a hearing does not stay the suspension of a person's driving privilege. However, if the department does not conduct a hearing and make a determination pursuant thereto within the time limit provided in subdivision (b) of Section 16070, the department shall stay the effective date of the order of suspension pending a determination. (e) The hearing provided for by this section shall be held in the county of residence of the person requesting the hearing. The hearing shall be conducted pursuant to Article 3 (commencing with Section 14100) of Chapter 3 of Division 6. (f) The department shall render its decision within 15 days after conclusion of the hearing.SEC. 9.Section 16251 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16251. As used in this chapter and Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 16430), "cause of action" means any cause of action for damage to property in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or for damage in any amount on account of bodily injury to or death of any person resulting from the operation by the defendant or any other person of any motor vehicle upon a highway in this state, except a cause of action based upon statutory liability by reason of signing the application of a minor for a driver's license.SEC. 10.Section 16377 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16377. For the purposes of this chapter, every judgment shall be deemed satisfied if any of the following apply: (a) Fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of one person as a result of any one accident. (b) Subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) as to one person, the sum of thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, which together total in excess of that amount, for personal injury to or death of more than one person as a result of any one accident. (c) Five thousand dollars ($5,000) has been credited, upon any judgment in excess of that amount, or upon all judgments, collectively, each of which is in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), and which together total in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000), for damage to property of others as a result of any one accident. (d) The judgment debtor or a person designated by him or her has deposited with the department a sum equal to the amount of the unsatisfied judgment for which the suspension action was taken and presents proof, satisfactory to the department, of inability to locate the judgment creditor.SEC. 11.Section 16430 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16430. "Proof of financial responsibility," when required by this code, means proof of financial responsibility resulting from the ownership or operation of a motor vehicle and arising by reason of personal injury to, or death of, any one person, of at least fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000), and, subject to the limit of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) for each person injured or killed, of at least thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) for the injury to, or the death of, two or more persons in any one accident, and for damages to property (in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000)), of at least five thousand dollars ($5,000) resulting from any one accident. Proof of financial responsibility may be given in any manner authorized in this chapter.SEC. 12.Section 16434 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read: 16434. Proof of financial responsibility may be given by a bond. The bond shall be conditioned for the payment of the amount specified in Section 16430, and shall provide for the entry of judgment on motion of the state in favor of any holder of any final judgment on account of damages to property over one thousand dollars ($1,000) in amount, or injury to any person caused by the operation of the person' s motor vehicle.