Violation of a Traffic Control Device in Florida
Drivers frequently accrue traffic tickets due to a failure to obey traffic control devices. Traffic control devices are the road signs that direct you to obey a certain law, such as “No U-turns,” “Yield” commands, and everyday “STOP” signs. Don’t make the mistake of admitting guilt by paying the citation offhand just to have it out of the way. Points on your license can be detrimental to your driving record as over time they can multiply and lead to license revocation.
Our Orlando traffic ticket attorneys are knowledgeable about the several defenses available to combat a traffic violation. In many cases, working with a traffic ticket attorney to represent you in court can increase your chance of obtaining a favorable outcome and relieve unnecessary stress. A successful traffic ticket defense strategy can save your driving record and provide the opportunity to avoid the hefty fines that often accompany a guilty plea.
Examples of Traffic Control Device Violations
“Traffic control device” is a technical term for any of the many traffic signals, signs, and other devices you see on roads daily. Common traffic control device violations include:
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield at a yield sign
- Making an illegal U-turn
- Ignoring flashing lights
- Ignoring temporary signs
- Speeding
- Encroaching on a sidewalk
- Railroad crossing infractions
Penalties for Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device in Florida
On Central Florida’s hectic roadways, heavy traffic can drive anyone to take any measure possible to shave a few minutes off his commute. All too often, however, the actions that can save a person time are illegal and can quickly lead to an unwanted traffic ticket. Florida Statute § 316.04 clearly states:
“The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any official traffic control device applicable thereto, placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, unless otherwise directed by a police officer…”
A person who fails to obey a traffic control device can put their life and the lives of fellow drivers at risk, which is why penalties for these traffic violations seem harsh. In Florida, a citation for failure to obey a traffic control device is a three-point offense.
Driver’s license penalties can threaten driving privileges if they aren’t taken care of in a timely manner. Three points on a Florida driver’s license can leave a chronic traffic violator in a position to have his license suspended. Accumulating twelve points in a 12-month period merits license revocation.
Drivers Under 18 at Greater Risk of License Revocation in Florida
Drivers under 18 who violate these traffic laws face even stiffer penalties; all it takes for an underage driver to face a suspended license is six points. With three points gone right off the bat, that leaves room for just one more failure to obey traffic control device to go before an underage driver’s license is suspended.
Your best chance of having the fine reduced or even eliminated and keeping points off your license is through the acquisition of a seasoned traffic offense lawyer. The Orlando traffic violation lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm have over 100 years of combined experience that they can implement to help you keep your driving privileges. Attorney William Umansky has over 25 years of experience providing “second chances” to clients who have faced consequences for their alleged offenses and can do the same for you. Contact us today at 407-228-3838 for a free case evaluation.
