Pennsylvania has a set of laws in what's known as a Vehicle Code that prohibits licensed state motorists from committing moving and nonmoving violations while operating a vehicle. If a driver is pulled over for violating any of the infractions detailed in this code, they will most likely be cited with a traffic ticket.
One violation that people are commonly ticketed for is is the failure to stop at a stop sign - 75 Pa. Cons. Stat § 3323(b). Although most people may consider this traffic offense as no big deal, some motorists have suffered dire legal repercussions for being found guilty of this crime.
If you have recently been ticketed for failing to stop at a stop sign, you should consult with a knowledgeable traffic attorney who can help you figure out how to respond to a traffic citation. An attorney can assist you in weighing your options in an effort to avoid a disastrous outcome.
Failing to Stop at a Stop Sign in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, motorists are prohibited from doing the following while behind the wheel:
- Failing to make a full stop before the clearly marked stop line at a stop sign
- Failing to make a full stop before the crosswalk (if no line is present or is difficult to see)
- Failing to make a full stop at the point closest to the intersecting road before entering the road
If an officer recounts that he's seen you do any of those actions, you may be issued a citation.
Pennsylvania's Point System
A citation for this offense is 3 points in Pennsylvania's point system. The state's Department of Transportation, commonly referred to as PENNDOT, maintains the driving records of licensed motorists in the state. When a driver is found guilty of a traffic infraction, a number of “points” are marked on his or her driving record. When a driver reaches a total of six accumulated points, corrective action will be taken against a motorist.
It definitely isn't hard for a driver to accrue six points. The 3 points accrued from this offense coupled with the points attached to another common traffic offense, such as the failure to stop at a red light, for example, could result in six points, which means that legal repercussions will be imposed.
Penalties
The failure to stop at a stop sign will typically result in a fine ranging from $25 to $100. However, if this traffic offense brings you to six points, you could be required to take a driver's exam, attend a safe driving course, or get your license suspended for up to 30 days depending on your circumstances.
Philadelphia Traffic Attorney
Although traffic offenses may seem minuscule, in many cases they have to lead to serious legal repercussions. Acquired traffic offenses can compromise your driving privileges and your freedom if they aren't appropriately handled. Contact skilled traffic attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
