Driving in California comes with its own set of rules, regulations, and sometimes, confusion. With heavy traffic, constantly changing road conditions, and a multitude of traffic laws, it’s easy to unintentionally commit a traffic violation. Some offenses are more common than others, and depending on the violation, you could be facing hefty fines, points on your record, or even a suspended driver’s license.
In this article, we’ll cover five of the most common traffic offenses in California, explain what they are, why they matter, and provide tips on how to avoid them. By understanding these traffic laws, you can become a more responsible and informed driver, and avoid the hassle of dealing with citations and penalties.
1. Speeding (VC 22350)
Speeding is perhaps one of the most common traffic violations in California. Whether you’re rushing to an appointment, or simply don’t notice the speed limit signs, speeding is something many drivers are guilty of at one point or another.
What You Need to Know About Speeding:
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Posted Speed Limits: Speed limits are clearly posted on road signs, and exceeding these limits is considered speeding. On highways, speed limits typically range from 65 mph to 70 mph, while in residential areas, they are usually set at 25 mph.
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Basic Speed Law: Even if you’re not exceeding the posted speed limit, you can still be cited for speeding if you’re driving too fast for current road conditions—such as rain, fog, or heavy traffic.
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Speed Traps and Radar Guns: Law enforcement officers often use radar guns or set up speed traps to catch speeders. In some areas, there are also automated speed cameras.
Consequences of Speeding:
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Fines: Speeding fines vary depending on how much over the speed limit you were driving, but fines typically range from $200 to $500.
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Points on Your Driving Record: Speeding violations can lead to points on your driving record, which can raise your insurance premiums. Accumulating too many points may result in a suspended driver’s license.
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Traffic School: In certain cases, you may be eligible to attend traffic school to prevent points from being added to your record.
How to Avoid Speeding:
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Pay close attention to posted speed limits and road signs.
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Adjust your speed based on weather conditions and traffic flow.
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Use cruise control on highways to help maintain a steady speed.
2. Running a Red Light (VC 21453)
Running a red light is a serious traffic violation that can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. While it may seem like a quick way to get through an intersection, running a red light is a dangerous and avoidable mistake.
What You Need to Know About Running a Red Light:
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Red Light Violation: California law (VC 21453) requires drivers to stop at a red light before entering an intersection. If you enter the intersection while the light is red, you could be cited by a police officer or, in some cases, caught on a red-light camera.
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Red-Light Cameras: Many cities in California use cameras to catch drivers who run red lights. These cameras photograph your car and mail the citation to your address.
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Left-Turn Red Lights: If you’re making a left turn at an intersection, you must stop at a red left-turn signal unless there is a sign indicating that left turns are allowed on red.
Consequences of Running a Red Light:
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Fines: The fine for running a red light is typically around $500, depending on the circumstances and location.
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Points on Your Record: Running a red light can result in points on your driving record, which may lead to higher insurance premiums.
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Traffic School: If you’re a first-time offender, you may be able to attend traffic school to remove the violation from your record.
How to Avoid Running a Red Light:
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Always slow down when approaching an intersection and be ready to stop.
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If the light turns yellow, slow down and prepare to stop rather than speeding up to “beat” the red light.
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Be aware of intersections with red-light cameras and adhere to traffic signals.
3. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – VC 23152
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in California. Whether you’ve had a few drinks or consumed prescription medication, driving impaired is illegal and highly dangerous.
What You Need to Know About DUI:
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Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC): The legal limit for most drivers in California is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%. However, drivers under 21 must have a BAC of 0.01% or less, and commercial drivers must have a BAC of 0.04%.
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DUI with Drugs: DUI laws in California also apply to driving under the influence of drugs, including marijuana, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications.
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Sobriety Checkpoints: Law enforcement sets up DUI checkpoints to catch impaired drivers. Refusing a chemical test at a checkpoint can result in severe penalties.
Consequences of a DUI:
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Fines: DUI fines in California can be significant, ranging from $390 to $1,000 for a first offense.
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License Suspension: A DUI conviction often results in a 6-month license suspension for a first offense, with more severe suspensions for repeat offenders.
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Jail Time: In some cases, particularly for repeat offenders, DUI convictions may lead to jail time.
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DUI Education Programs: Offenders are often required to attend DUI education programs.
How to Avoid a DUI:
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Designate a Driver: Always have a designated driver if you’re going to drink.
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Use Ride-Sharing Services: Consider using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft if you’re impaired.
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Know Your Limits: If you’re taking medication, ensure it doesn’t impair your ability to drive.
4. Using a Mobile Phone While Driving (VC 23123)
Distracted driving is becoming one of the leading causes of accidents on California’s roads. Using a mobile phone while driving is one of the most common distractions, and California law has strict rules about it.
What You Need to Know About Mobile Phone Use:
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Hands-Free Requirement: California law requires drivers to use hands-free devices when talking on the phone while driving. Holding a phone or placing it to your ear is prohibited.
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Texting While Driving: Texting while driving is illegal under California’s laws (VC 23123.5). Even if you’re stopped at a red light, texting behind the wheel is still considered an offense.
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GPS Navigation: You can use your phone for GPS, but it must be mounted on your dashboard or windshield.
Consequences of Mobile Phone Violations:
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Fines: The fines for using a mobile phone while driving typically start at $20 for the first offense and increase for subsequent violations.
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Points on Your Record: Just like other traffic violations, using your mobile phone while driving can add points to your driving record.
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Insurance Premiums: Accumulating points on your record can lead to higher insurance premiums.
How to Avoid Mobile Phone Violations:
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Use a hands-free device or Bluetooth for calls.
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If you need to send a text or make a call, pull over safely before doing so.
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Set your GPS navigation before you start driving to avoid distractions.
5. Failing to Yield (VC 21800)
Failing to yield the right-of-way can lead to serious accidents and is a common traffic violation. Understanding when you need to yield can help you avoid accidents and keep traffic flowing smoothly.
What You Need to Know About Yielding:
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At Stop Signs: When approaching a stop sign, you must yield to any vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection.
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At Yield Signs: Yield signs require drivers to slow down or stop and let other drivers pass when necessary.
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Pedestrian Crosswalks: Always yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks, even if there are no signals.
Consequences of Failing to Yield:
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Fines and Penalties: Failing to yield can result in fines and, in some cases, being considered at fault in an accident.
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Points on Your Record: Like other violations, failing to yield can add points to your driving record and potentially lead to a suspension if too many points accumulate.
How to Avoid Failing to Yield:
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Always check for stop and yield signs, and know when other drivers or pedestrians have the right-of-way.
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Be especially cautious when driving near schools or busy intersections where pedestrians are common.
Conclusion
By understanding these five common traffic offenses in California, you can help protect yourself from fines, points on your driving record, and the potential for serious accidents. Staying informed and driving responsibly is key to navigating California’s roads safely.
If you’ve been cited for any of these offenses or need legal advice regarding a traffic violation in Southern California, it’s important to consult with an experienced traffic attorney. At Southwest Legal, we specialize in traffic law and can help guide you through the process. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in resolving your traffic issues and protecting your driving record.
