2026 is here, and with it come changes to traffic regulations. A new bill seeks to restrict the roads on which certain drivers can travel. With the goal of easing traffic and limiting the movement of certain vehicles, the State of California will implement new regulations on its streets. Starting January 1, 2026, a new law affecting truck drivers will take effect in California. According to AB 98, they will no longer be allowed to drive on residential streets in the Inland Empire. This is a particularly significant change for those who frequently travel through this area.
The law aims to benefit both area residents and affected drivers by reducing traffic congestion
The regulation aims to minimize traffic and pollution. It mandates the establishment of specific routes and seeks to optimize traffic flow, reduce pollution, and protect the condition of the roads. The law, therefore, aims to benefit both area residents and affected drivers by reducing traffic congestion and other issues. Specifically, this area encompasses Riverside and San Bernardino counties and is a key hub for logistics, tourism, and rapidly growing communities.
While many may consider this law relatively unnecessary, the truth is that trucks frequently travel through cities, leaving potholes and pavement damage in their wake, which disrupts traffic. This will change with the new ban. Assembly Bill 98 will require truckers traveling through California’s Inland Empire to follow specific routes starting in the new year. Therefore, it is crucial that drivers are well-informed about the regulatory changes to avoid surprises.
“The streets are damaged and the potholes are getting bigger”
The fact is, according to experts, in addition to improving traffic flow and allowing truck drivers to make deliveries more quickly, the new regulations will keep heavy vehicles away from residential streets. “The streets are damaged and the potholes are getting bigger,” resident Angelique Rageasingh told KNBC, the local NBC affiliate, regarding the impact trucks and other large commercial vehicles have on residential streets. The bill aims not only to reduce congestion and improve safety but also to reduce pollution by offering truckers the fastest and most direct route possible for their deliveries.
The law also impacts logistics facilities, such as warehouses and distribution centers
As we mentioned, the news has been met with mixed reactions. While truckers support the change, they also express frustration at the apparent lack of respect for their profession. Beyond the requirement for specific routes, the law also impacts logistics facilities (such as warehouses and distribution centers). It will apply to new logistics projects or expansions, especially those involving large warehouses or located near sensitive sites. The routes must be in place by January 1, 2026, when AB 98 comes into effect.
They must also have specific features to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions
Regarding the venues mentioned above, these must comply with energy efficiency and sustainability standards, including solar panels, cool roofs, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. They must also have specific features to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Finally, they should incorporate buffer zones with visual barriers and vegetation to minimize the impact on nearby communities. All of this is important to, of course, start the year off on the right foot.
Ultimately, the decision to keep truckers away isn’t met with the same enthusiasm by everyone: “It’s the curves. The roads are narrow, and people are disrespectful. There’s no courtesy towards trucks,” Michael Hales, a trucker with over 48 years of experience, told local media, adding, “It’s like we’re a nuisance to them.” In short, like any change in regulations, it doesn’t always receive the same welcome from the public.