Pennsylvania's Vehicle Code prohibits licensed state drivers from commissioning moving and nonmoving violations while behind the wheel. If an officer catches a person committing any of the violations listed in this code, they will most likely be issued a citation.
One traffic offense that is listed in the Vehicle Code is following too closely behind a vehicle - 75 Pa. Cons. Stat § 3310. This traffic offense may seem minor to some drivers, but some people find themselves with issues such as higher insurance premiums, all due to the issuing of this citation.
If you have recently been ticketed for following too closely in Pennsylvania, you should consult with a knowledgeable traffic attorney that will help you weigh your options, and respond to this violation in a way that is appropriate and that will prevent potential dire legal repercussions.
Following Too Closely in Pennsylvania
According to Pennsylvania law, motorists are forbidden from following too closely or tailgating other drivers. A person is guilty of this offense when he or she drives behind a vehicle more closely than what is recommended and reasonable given the environment, speed of the vehicles and roadway conditions.
This law is heavily enforced upon CDL drivers, as tailgating is deemed a serious traffic offense for motorists in this profession.
Pennsylvania's Point System
When a person is found guilty of following too closely in the state, will be given three points on their driving record. Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation, also known as PENNDOT, accounts for the driving records of licensed state motorists. Once the commission of violation is established, a person will receive a series of “points” marked on his or her driving record.
This point system was developed to hold drivers accountable for their driving habits and give them a chance to improve before penalties are imposed. However, the state doesn't give motorists too many chances. Once a person receives six accumulated points on their record, corrective actions will be taken. Reaching the six-point mark isn't difficult (especially when officers have quotas to meet). A following too close traffic ticket paired with another common offense, such as the failure to stop at a stop sign, easily adds up to six points.
Penalties
Following too closely will usually result in a fine ranging from $25 to $100. If this traffic offense brings a driver to six points, he or she could potentially subject to attending a safe driving course, or getting their license suspended for up to 30 days depending on the circumstances.
As mentioned above, CDL drivers who have been found guilty of following too closely have technically committed a serious traffic offense. As a result, their CDL license may be suspended for a period of time.
Philadelphia Traffic Attorney
As you can see, seemingly petty traffic offenses can lead to harsh consequences if they aren't handled appropriately. If you have been cited for following too closely, you should consult with a skilled traffic attorney to help you minimize the chances of being penalized. Contact legal professional Joseph D. Lento today.
