Pennsylvania adheres to its Vehicle Code - a number of laws that forbid state motorists from committing moving and nonmoving violations while behind the wheel of a vehicle. Officers who witness these violations either from observation or as a result of an accident will likely issue a motorist with a traffic ticket.
Although many people may think that being cited with a traffic violation is no big deal, one too many tickets can lead to unfavorable circumstances. A tainted driving record, rising insurance premiums, costly fines, or even the suspension or revocation of a person's driver's license are potential consequences for acquiring traffic tickets. The stakes are even higher for commercial drivers whose livelihood depends on maintaining a squeaky clean driving record.
If you have recently been ticketed for failing to stop for a yield sign - 75 Pa. Cons. Stat § 3323(c), you should consult with a knowledgeable traffic attorney who can help you figure out the best suitable way to respond to a traffic citation. With the help of a legal professional, you will be able to avoid dire legal repercussions.
Failure to Stop for a Yield Sign in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, a driver approaching a yield sign must slow down to a reasonable speed. If it is required to maintain the safety of drivers, a driver should stop before entering a crosswalk or intersection where they can see oncoming traffic. After either slowing down or stopping, a driver must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in an intersection or approaching from another road.
Motorists who drive past a yield sign and are involved in a car accident afterward will indefinitely be cited with the failure to yield. This accident will be categorized as a “prima facie,” or evidence that you committed this traffic offense. The only way to disprove this claim is to fight a ticket in court with the help of a legal professional.
Pennsylvania's Point System
Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation maintains and updates the driving records of licensed state motorists. When a driver is found guilty of a traffic violation, a series of “points” will be marked on his or her driving record. The number of points added to a driving record depends solely on the traffic offense committed. If a driver reaches six points, administrative penalties will be imposed upon a motorist.
Although the point system was created to hold drivers accountable for their habits and give them a chance to improve, the state doesn't give too many chances. Failing to yield amounts to three points on a person's driving record. This traffic offense coupled with another common violation, such as failing to stop at a stop sign (which is also 30 points) could lead to serious penalties.
Penalties
The failure to yield at a yield sign will typically result in a fine ranging from $25 to $100. However, if this traffic offense brings a driver to six points, they could be ordered to attend a driver's safety course, or endure a license suspension for up to 30 days depending on the circumstances.
Philadelphia Traffic Attorney
Don't let a traffic ticket jeopardize your driving privileges or send your insurance premiums sky high. Skilled traffic attorney Joseph D. Lento is here to help you respond to traffic citations appropriately. Contact him today.
