Getting out of a traffic ticket isn’t always the easiest thing to do, especially without some legal help. When it comes to figuring out the main points of different traffic tickets and fines, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Here are a few of the most common types of traffic violations that drivers face today:
- Speeding Violations: This one probably goes without saying, and it’s easily one of the most common traffic violations. One simple speeding ticket is usually considered a misdemeanor traffic offense and it might not seem like a big deal, but the cost can really add up — along with points on your driving record — if you get a bunch.
- Distracted Driving: The most common form of distracted driving today manifests itself in the dreaded cell phone ticket. Most states now prohibit drivers from using mobile devices to make calls, texts or access the web. Distracted driving traffic tickets are also pretty simple and harmless, but they can get very expensive and are difficult to contest.
- Hit and Run Tickets: This violation pertains to drivers who are involved in an accident, causing damage either to someone’s property or to another person, but who choose to leave the scene of the accident rather than report it. In general, drivers are required to leave contact information with the victim or report the incident to the local police force before leaving the scene. Hit and run car accidents are often very serious, so the consequences here are not pretty.
- Traffic Light Violations: This is another common traffic violation among drivers, and is usually the result of “rolling” through a stop sign or speeding up when a traffic light turns yellow. Some states even allow the use of traffic cameras that will automatically snap pictures of any cars that violate traffic lights and stop signs, making it even easier to get ticketed for this offense.
- Driving Without a Valid License: Last but not least, every driver in the U.S. is required to have a valid driver’s license, which can only be acquired through a driving test. If a driver loses his or her license or is subject to restrictions (e.g., teens are often prohibited from driving at night), traffic tickets may be given out for driving without a valid license.
The best way to make sure that you aren’t ticketed while driving is to follow all the laws, and this is only possible if you know exactly what’s prohibited!
