Have you checked the latest data on car accidents?

According to recent statistics, over six million vehicular accidents occur annually, three million people sustain injuries, and 90 people on average die in crashes each day.

Car accidents aren’t your only worry. You could be pulled over for DUIs, speeding, running a stop sign, broken taillights, or worse. Are you prepared in the event of a traffic stop?

Having a basic knowledge of traffic law is necessary for all drivers. While laws vary from state-to-state, the following traffic laws are true across state lines.

Don’t Drink and Drive

This traffic law may seem obvious, but more than one million drivers are arrested for driving under the influence.

DUIs are a leading cause of fatal car crashes, which typically lead to manslaughter charges. Depending on the degree, vehicular manslaughter may warrant three to fifteen years in prison. Repeat offenders may be sentenced to twenty years in some cases.

Non-fatal cases may also lead to jail time. Often, offenders are sentenced to probation, traffic school, and community service. Repeat DUI offenders are more likely to get jail time, regardless of the degree.

No Speeding!

You just got a new car; of course, you’re ready to feel the wind in your air, but not so fast!

Driving over the speed limit is sure to land you in hot water with a traffic cop. Cops are also known to park on the side of the road, catching speedy drivers in the act. Don’t let that happen to you.

Always drive at or under the speed limit. Of course, driving too slow is a problem. Maintain a reasonable distance between cars, and avoid riding a car’s “tail.”

Speeding tickets aren’t as severe as DUI citations and arrests. However, speeding is another leading cause of fatal car crashes, which also results in manslaughter convictions.

Speeding ticket amounts vary between cities and states. Drivers can expect to pay $150 to $200 on average; however, these amounts depend on where you’re speeding.

For example, if you’re caught speeding in a school zone, expect to pay more than your average speeding ticket.

The more you drive over the speed limit, the greater your ticket amount. In some states, driving 30 mph over the limit may result in a $400 fine or worse!

Do you still have a need for speed? If fines alone aren’t enough to convince you to slow down, higher insurance rates will. Every mark on your traffic record increases your auto insurance rates.

Traffic Law Resources

Navigating the post-traffic incident process can be challenging. The first step is to research your options.

Start with free legal services like on-campus legal advice, legal glossary websites, and Q&A sites. This attorney is one example of the various traffic lawyers available.

You could also apply for legal aid through your city or non-profit organizations. Ensure you have enough materials to prove your case!

Buckle Up

Brush up on your traffic law basics before putting the keys in the ignition. Remember these points as you gather more resources on driver’s safety.

Don’t fall victim to outdated laws. Stay updated with the latest legal blogs.