March 15, 2013
In case you are not aware, the fines imposed for moving violations dramatically increased on January 6, 2011. California has a budget crisis and legislators in Sacramento decided to substantially increase the fines as a creative method to obtain more revenue for the state. Of course everyone should obey driving laws, but the penalties should be appropriate for the offense committed. Nevertheless, one should be aware of the hefty fines for violations.
Traffic Ticket Fines (Effective 01/06/2011)
VC 14600(A) | $214 | Failure to notify DMV of address change within 10 days. |
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction. | ||
VC 16028(A) | $796 | Failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility (insurance). |
Note: This fine may be reduced with proof of insurance on or after the violation date. | ||
VC 21453(A) | $436 | Failure to stop at a red signal. |
VC 22349 | $214 | Unsafe speed, 1 to 15 miles over the limit. |
VC 22350 | $328 | Unsafe speed, 16 to 25 miles over the limit. |
VC 22454(A) | $616 | Passing a school bus with flashing red signals. |
VC 23123(A) | $148 | Driving while using a wireless phone not hands free, first offense. |
VC 23123(B) | $256 | Driving while using a wireless phone not hands free, each subsequent offense. |
VC 23123.5 | $148 | Driving while using a wireless device to send, read or write text. |
VC 23124 | $148 | Minor driving while using a wireless phone. |
VC 22500 | $976 | Parking in a bus loading area. |
VC 22507(A) | $976 | Violation of disabled parking provisions, first offense. |
VC 22507(B) | $1876 | Violation of disabled parking provisions, second offense. |
VC 26708 | $178 | Unlawful material on vehicle windows. |
VC 27150 | $178 | Adequate muffler required. |
VC 27315 | $148 | Mandatory use of seat belts. |
VC 27360 | $436 | Mandatory use of passenger child restraints. |
Note: This fine may be reduced by completing a court authorized child seat diversion program. | ||
VC 27400 | $178 | Headsets or earplugs covering both ears. |
VC 27803 | $178 | Violation of motorcycle safety helmet requirements. |
VC 4000 | $256 | No evidence of current registration. |
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction. | ||
VC 5200 | $178 | Proper display of license plates. |
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction. | ||
VC 9400 | $178 | Commercial weight fees due. |
Here are some tips to help you avoid getting a moving violation.
1. Avoid driving. This may seem absurd, but a sure way to avoid a moving violation is to avoid driving, or at least cut down on it. Walk or bike if you are just going to a nearby store or establishment. Of course, there are other ways to avoid moving violations, but this habit will also help you save money on gas.
2. Know and follow traffic rules. A simple rule of the road: don’t break traffic laws, and you will not get a ticket. The problem is many people really don’t know much about traffic laws and ignorance can never be an excuse. You may find it laborious to read The California Driver Handbook and the 2011 Vehicle Code but it’s worth the effort.
3. Learn defensive driving. Aggressive driving can irritate other drivers and can put you in a dangerous situation. For example, getting into a race after someone overtook you in the road will most likely get the attention of the highway patrol.
4. Always be alert. Whenever you are in the road, always be on the lookout for road signs, particularly regulatory and warning signs. Following road signs will help you avoid moving violations but also keep you safe.
5. Be responsible. Never text or eat while driving since it will pose a safety risk to you and other drivers. Anything that distracts your attention from the road ahead makes you more vulnerable to road accidents and increases the potential to face charges for moving violations.
Automobile insurance is compulsory in California. For excellent auto insurance rates and coverage contact us at 1-800-585-1776.