Traffic laws exist to protect you and all other drivers and pedestrians out on the roads. While it may seem simple to follow the laws of the road, many of the six million car accidents occurring each year are caused by traffic violations.
The lawyers at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford have handled enough car accident injury cases in Southeastern Pennsylvania to know that breaking traffic laws can have tragic results. As a driver, it is essential to remember that you hold a legal responsibility to obey laws to protect you and other travelers. The following are the top five most consistently broken traffic laws in Pennsylvania.
1. Breaking the Speed Limit
Possibly the most frequently broken traffic law by most drivers, the speed limit is a law, not a suggestion. While many people will say that it is okay to go five or ten miles over the speed limit, the reality is that you can be ticketed for going even one mile over.
Speeding, especially in extreme cases, can cause deadly accidents as it often leads to reckless driving. This also applies to people driving too slowly. The minimum speed limit law states that a driver must not drive at a speed that would impede the natural flow of traffic.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has always been an issue among drivers, but now with smartphones, smartwatches, and more, it seems easier to become distracted while operating a motor vehicle. One of the most common causes of distracted driving in the State of Pennsylvania is texting; it is best to keep your phone out of reach while you drive so as not to be tempted.
3. Improper Turns
To safely direct traffic at intersections, signs and signals are installed so drivers know which way they can legally turn and when. When all drivers follow the traffic signals and signs, it ensures that everyone can get through the intersection safely.
While this is the ideal, it is an unfortunate fact that many people ignore this law. Whether rolling through a stop sign or running a red light, they are putting themself and all other people, drivers and pedestrians, at risk when they make an improper turn.
4. Illegally Passing Other Drivers
While it is common to pass other drivers while out on the roads, it is important to remember the rules for safely passing another car. In Pennsylvania, the general rule for passing vehicles is to do so on the left while ensuring that you clear the other vehicle safely. You do not want to cut anyone off, as that can easily cause an accident. Keep in mind you should also not be drastically increasing your speed while passing another driver.
5. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of alcohol is one of the most dangerous things any driver can do. Aside from the fines and consequences drivers caught driving under the influence face, including losing their license, breaking this traffic law has proved to have deadly results when it comes to accidents involving a drunk driver.
Seek the Help of Experienced Car Accident Injury Lawyers
As drivers, we all want to assume that our fellow drivers follow the rules to keep us all safe on the roads. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, and there are traffic laws that are broken and lead to accidents almost every day.
When you need the help of lawyers with extensive experience, reach out to the car accident injury lawyers at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford. Servicing the Southeastern Pennsylvania area, our award-winning law firm will provide you the specialized care you need to build your claim. For a free consultation, contact us here or call (215) 822-7575.
