5 Little-Known Traffic Violations You’re Probably Committing

There are a handful of traffic violations that aren’t well-known or are often dismissed by people. But even these little-known traffic violations could cause you to get a ticket, leading to higher insurance costs, points on your driver’s license, or even the suspension of your license. Even worse, ignoring these violations could cause an accident that leads to injury or death.

Traffic rules exist to keep people safe while a vehicle is operating. Here are five little-known traffic violations that could get you into trouble.

Not following pedestrian safety mechanisms

Drivers should always maintain a lookout for pedestrians. There are certain safety mechanisms in place to protect drivers and pedestrians. For example, crosswalks have a white horizontal line that cars are supposed to stop behind. This line ensures that pedestrians have enough space to cross the street without walking into traffic. If a driver stops over the line, this is a traffic violation.

Even pedestrians have traffic rules they are supposed to follow. Pedestrians should use designated sidewalks and crosswalks when walking or crossing the road. Jaywalking, crossing roads with no crosswalk, or walking when the signal says “Don’t walk” can all pose a serious risk to pedestrians and drivers.

Not coming to a complete stop

A red light or stop sign indicates that a vehicle should stop at the designated line on the road. Making a complete stop will ensure that you have adequate time to look out for other vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. However, some drivers find it acceptable to slow down rather than come to a complete stop.

But it’s actually a traffic violation to not make a complete stop. To make a complete stop, your vehicle’s tires should stop moving completely. If you only slow down before proceeding, this could lead to getting pulled over by a police officer.

Not signaling properly

Drivers use car signal lights to indicate an intention to turn or switch lanes to other drivers. You probably already know drivers should use a turn signal before changing lanes, but some people don’t realize that they need to give adequate time before moving their car. Drivers need to start signaling before they turn or switch lanes.

Following cars too closely

Tailgating, or following cars too closely, is another traffic violation that people frequently commit. Drivers need to ensure that they leave enough space between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. By doing so, drivers are prepared for sudden stops without causing a rear-end accident.

While some states have specific requirements for how much space should be in between vehicles, Pennsylvania is vague. The traffic law states, “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of the vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.”

Not sharing the road with bicyclists

In Pennsylvania, motor vehicles are responsible for providing adequate distance when passing a bicyclist on the road. Drivers must maintain a distance of 4 feet to overtake a bicyclist and travel at a careful speed.

On the other hand, bicyclists also have traffic rules they must follow. For example, they must obey traffic laws like stop signs and red lights as well as not ride against the flow of traffic.

Need traffic violation attorneys in Lebanon, PA?

Sometimes police officers don’t always apply the appropriate care when writing tickets. Before you pay for the ticket, contact our law firm for a consultation.

Henry and Beaver have experienced traffic violations lawyers dedicated to ensuring that local residents resolve their traffic tickets favorably. We will review your case and determine if we can have the ticket dismissed or penalties reduced.

Schedule a consultation by contacting us online or call us at 717-274-3644. We look forward to meeting with you.