We’ve all heard the horror stories about people getting pulled over for a traffic violation and then getting a ticket that costs more than their car. That’s why it’s essential to obey the law. Some traffic violations are worse than others and could potentially cost you more money or even your freedom. Here are four of the worst traffic violations to avoid at all costs.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most dangerous — and costly — activities you can do on the road. You are putting yourself and others at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), DUI caused 28% of all traffic fatalities in 2016, killing 10,497 people.
If you’re caught engaging in this behavior, you’ll likely face stiff fines, jail time, and a loss of your driver’s license. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), combined penalties and legal fees for a first offense can reach $10,000 or more. This offense will also reflect as a criminal record.
To avoid the risks associated with DUI, you must always have a designated driver with you whenever you are drinking. This individual should stay sober and be ready and willing to take the wheel afterward.
If you decide to drink without a designated driver, leave your car in a safe parking lot and take an Uber home. Never think that you are still sober enough to drive.
So if you’re going to drink, be responsible and follow these crucial tips for avoiding DUI. Your life may depend on it.
If you are apprehended for DUI, immediately call a DUI attorney and do not make any statements to the authorities without your lawyer present. Legal representation will ensure that your rights are protected, and your best interests are pursued.
Speeding
Speeding is a major road safety hazard. The faster you’re going, the less time you have to react to potential dangers on the road. That can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there were 10,136 fatal crashes due to speeding in 2020, killing 11,258 people. That is a daily average of 30 people killed.
You can expect to pay a significant fine if caught speeding. But if your speeding causes injuries or fatalities, you can face jail time. In most states, the maximum speed limit is 55 miles per hour. But even driving at this speed can be dangerous under certain conditions, such as heavy traffic or bad weather.
In addition to the danger it poses to drivers and passengers, speeding also contributes to congestion and increases the wear and tear on vehicles. If you find yourself constantly pushing the limit, it might be time to reassess your driving habits.
So, even if you’re in a hurry, it’s always better to play it safe and obey the posted speed limit. Remember, it’s always better to arrive alive than to arrive late.
Running a Red Light
Running a red light is another risky move that can result in a costly ticket — or much worse. If caught running a red light, you could be facing a fine of up to $1,000. And if you cause an accident because you ran a red light, you could be looking at jail time.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2019, red-light running caused around 143,000 injuries and 846 deaths. More than half were pedestrians, cyclists, and people in other cars among those killed.
Slowing down and stopping at red lights also helps promote smooth traffic flow. Strong traffic signals allow drivers to move smoothly throughout an intersection without worrying about potential collisions or gridlock. That makes your commute as safe and efficient as possible.
Also, slowing down and stopping is essential for maintaining a good fuel economy. Accelerating too quickly or riding the brakes will use more of your gas. If you want to stay safe and save money on gas, remember these essential tips: slow down and stop whenever you see a red light or stop sign ahead.
Driving Without Insurance
Finally, one of the most financially devastating traffic violations you can commit is driving without insurance. If caught driving without insurance, you could face a fine of up to $5,000. Not only that, but you could also have your driver’s license suspended.
Even worse, if you get in an accident without insurance, you may not be able to afford the consequences. A minor fender bender, for example, could result in thousands of dollars in damages. If you cause injuries or worse, fatalities, you could face damages that may drive you to bankruptcy.
Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you always have adequate auto insurance coverage before getting behind the wheel. There are various types of coverage, such as liability insurance and personal injury protection (PIP), so it’s best to research and find a policy that meets your individual needs.
Drive Safely
While no one wants to get pulled over for a traffic violation, it’s essential to be aware of the consequences of breaking the law. If caught committing one of these four violations, you could be facing some severe penalties. So, drive safely and obey the law — it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
