As a driver, you’re expected to obey the rules of the road at all times. Neglecting to do so can result in a traffic violation, while also increasing the risk of an accident.
A thorough understanding of the most common traffic violations can help protect you against trouble:
- Speeding: Every road has a posted speed limit, and it’s your job to know what it is. An officer may let you get away with a few miles per hour over the speed limit, but it’s not a risk you should take.
- Running a red light or stop sign: Not only is this a traffic violation, but it increases the risk of an accident at an intersection. For example, if you run a red light in heavy city traffic, there’s a chance of striking a vehicle traveling through the intersection.
- Neglecting to stop for a school bus: When a school bus stops and puts up its sign, you must stay where you are. Passing the bus is a serious traffic violation. Not to mention the fact that it increases the risk of striking a child.
- Neglecting to stop for pedestrians: You’re required by law to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Neglecting to do so is just as dangerous as passing a school bus.
If you receive a ticket for any of these traffic violations, among others, learn more about your legal rights and consequences.
There are times when it makes sense to pay the ticket and move on, but that doesn’t always hold true. You may want to fight the ticket in traffic court with hopes of lessening the impact on your life.
