Aug. 18, 1929: Introducing the CHP

As vehicles became more popular on California roads, the government enacted new motor vehicle laws for motorists to abide by, reported the Glendora Gleaner this week in 1929.

One major new development from these laws included the creation of the California Highway Patrol, which the newspaper reported would begin operating as “independent county units under a central head, completely controlled by the state.”

Other changes in the law included:

• Safety zones exclusively for pedestrians.
• Drivers at fault for negligence in an accident must pay the judgment within 15 days or have their license revoked. Such drivers must secure public liability insurance of $5,000 for one person injured or killed and $10,000 for two.
• Have license plates displayed at least 24 inches from the ground.