Pennsylvania Red Light Violations: What You Need to Know
The Vehicle Code of Pennsylvania prohibits licensed motorists of the state from committing violations behind the wheel. By the way, this code prohibits motorists in both moving and non-moving vehicles. Any time a driver commits one of the infractions in the code, they get a traffic ticket.
Among the most prevalent moving violations are the failure to stop at red lights. Even if this seems like a minor traffic crime, some drivers might have to deal with serious legal repercussions due to the citation issue.
And if you fail to stop at a red light under the influence, you will need an experienced Pittsburgh DUI Attorney to help you. They will also be able to assist you in responding to traffic citations correctly to avoid further complications.
What is Pennsylvania’s Point System?
Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation (PennDOT) uses a point system that tracks traffic offenses. It was created to improve drivers’ safety by holding motorists accountable for their driving conduct. It also provides drivers with the chance to fix bad driving habits to prevent legal penalties.
When a state motorist with a license is found guilty of any traffic violation, a series of “points” is marked on the driving record. If a driver acquires 6 points, corrective action is required in due course. In PA, failing to stop at a red light is 3 points. So, this citation, combined with other traffic infractions, leads to legal consequences. Here, you need the services of an efficient Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer.
Here are other types of moving violations and their penalty points:
- Improper hill passing docks 4 points.
- Failure to stop at railroad crossings docks 4 points.
Besides moving violations, suspending driving privileges can be done for the following reasons:
- DUI
- Drug charges conviction
- Felony commission involving a vehicle
- Reckless driving
- Driving with a suspended license
PennDOT Traffic Infraction Penalties
If you run a red light, the fine can be anywhere between $25 and $100. If it pushes your points over 6, you will need to take a safety exam within 30 days. On passing the exam, 2 points will be erased from your record.
If this citation puts you at 6 points for the second time, you will need to face a DMV hearing with your Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer. The examiner in this case may suspend your license for 15 days. They might also order you to take a driver’s ed course.
If you accumulate 6 points subsequently, there will be another DMV hearing. However, the inevitable result of this hearing is the 30-day suspension of your license. There are no alternative penalties.
Defenses Against Traffic Violations in Pennsylvania
Many defenses are likely to be applied to traffic offense cases. Maybe external conditions obscured your view, and you didn’t notice the red light until it was too late. Or you’re sure your vehicle was at the intersection before the light changed to red. The more you discuss these details with your Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer, the more your chances of getting the offense dismissed increase.
There can be dire consequences of being convicted of a traffic offense. It can compromise your freedom and driving privileges if handled improperly. With the help of Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyers like Logue Law Group, you can avoid these issues. Contact us at sean@seanloguelaw.com today.