When we think of traffic violations, speeding tickets often come to mind first. But a whole world of lesser-known traffic violations can catch drivers off guard. Let’s explore some of these violations and learn how to handle them properly.
Failure to Produce Insurance
You might be insured, but what if you can’t prove it when an officer asks?
What It Means:
In Missouri, you’re required to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times. If you can’t show this proof when asked, you can be cited for failure to produce insurance.
Consequences:
This violation can result in fines and, in some cases, license suspension. It’s treated seriously because driving without insurance is illegal and puts others at risk.
How to Handle It:
If you’re cited for this, don’t panic. Often, if you can prove you were insured at the time of the citation, the ticket can be dismissed. Contact your insurance company immediately for documentation, and consider consulting a traffic attorney to help navigate the process.
Stop Sign Violations
Rolling stops might seem harmless, but they’re more severe than you think.
What It Means:
A complete stop means your vehicle’s wheels stop moving entirely. Even a slow roll through a stop sign is a violation.
Consequences:
Stop sign violations, which typically result in fines and points on your license. In Missouri, it’s usually 3 points, which can affect your insurance rates and accumulate toward license suspension.
How to Handle It:
If you’re cited, consider whether there were any extenuating circumstances. Was the stop sign obscured? Were you avoiding a hazard? These factors could help in contesting the ticket. A traffic attorney can often negotiate to reduce these charges to non-moving violations.
Following Too Closely
Tailgating isn’t just annoying; it’s illegal and dangerous.
What It Means:
You’re required to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This distance should allow you to stop safely if the car ahead stops suddenly.
Consequences:
In Missouri, following too closely typically results in 2 points on your license and a fine. It’s also viewed negatively by insurance companies, as it’s a high-risk behavior.
How to Handle It: These violations can be subjective. If you’re cited, make notes about the traffic conditions, weather, and any actions of other drivers that might have influenced the situation. These details can be crucial if you decide to contest the ticket.
Improper Lane Usage
Changing lanes without signaling or crossing solid lines might seem minor, but they’re violations.
What It Means:
This can include failing to signal lane changes, crossing solid lines, or not staying within your lane.
Consequences:
These violations usually result in fines and points on your license. In Missouri, improper lane usage typically adds 2 points to your driving record.
How to Handle It: If cited, consider if there were any safety reasons for your actions. Were you avoiding an obstacle? Was there an emergency? These factors could be significant in contesting the ticket.
Driving with Expired Tags
It’s easy to forget about renewing your vehicle registration, but it’s a violation.
What It Means:
In Missouri, driving with expired license plate tags is illegal. Your tags need to be current and correctly displayed.
Consequences:
This can result in fines and, if left unaddressed, more severe penalties, including possible arrest warrants.
How to Handle It:
If you’re cited, renew your tags immediately. Many courts will dismiss or reduce the charge if you can prove you’ve renewed your registration promptly after the citation.
The Importance of Addressing These Violations Promptly
Ignoring these violations or simply paying the fine without considering your options can lead to long-term consequences:
Points on Your License:
Accumulating points can lead to license suspension or higher insurance rates.
Insurance Impacts:
Even lesser-known violations can cause your insurance premiums to increase.
Employment Issues:
For jobs that require driving, any traffic violation could be problematic.
Repeat Offender Status: Multiple violations, even minor ones, can lead to more severe penalties for future offenses.
When to Seek Legal Help
While some minor violations might be straightforward to handle on your own, there are times when seeking legal help is wise:
Multiple Violations:
If you’re facing several tickets or have a history of violations.
Commercial Drivers:
CDL holders often face stricter penalties and should consider legal help for any violation.
Unclear Circumstances:
If you believe you were wrongly cited or there were extenuating circumstances.
Potential for Serious Consequences: For violations that could lead to license suspension or significant insurance increases.
In these cases, consulting with a traffic attorney can be beneficial. They can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or find alternative resolutions that minimize the impact on your driving record and insurance rates.
A Note on DUI Charges
While we’ve focused on lesser-known violations, it’s worth mentioning that for more severe offenses like DUIs, the stakes are much higher. If you’re facing a DUI charge, it’s crucial to consult with a Kansas City, Missouri, DUI lawyer immediately. These cases require specialized knowledge and can have severe, long-lasting consequences.
Staying Informed and Proactive
The best way to handle traffic violations is to avoid them in the first place. Stay informed about traffic laws, keep your vehicle in good condition, and always drive defensively. But if you do find yourself cited for a violation, remember:
Don’t automatically pay the fine without considering your options. Gather information about the circumstances of the citation. Consider the potential long-term impacts on your driving record and insurance. Don’t hesitate to seek legal advice, especially for more complex situations.
By addressing traffic violations promptly and professionally, you protect not just your driving record but your financial future and peace of mind. Stay safe on the roads, and remember that knowledge and quick action are your best defenses against the consequences of traffic violations.
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