Pennsylvania’s holiday traffic can both test your patience and your knowledge of the state’s driving laws. Each year, thousands of motorists encounter citations for violations they never saw coming. Before joining the holiday rush on The Keystone State’s roadways, familiarize yourself with these five surprising traffic infractions that could result in unwelcome fines.
Improper lane changes
State law requires drivers to signal for at least 100 feet before changing lanes. When the highway slows to a crawl, drivers may be tempted to try anything to move forward. Zigzagging quickly across lanes, or “weaving,” is often considered careless driving.
The fines for such a violation start at $25 but can exceed $100 with added fees. It also adds a 3-point penalty on your license, potentially increasing your insurance rates.
Mall parking area violations
The scramble for convenient parking spots at crowded shopping centers can lead to numerous overlooked violations:
- Parking in fire lanes (even “just for a minute”)
- Blocking handicapped access aisles
- Parking in reserved spaces
- Creating makeshift parking spaces in non-designated areas
- Double parking while waiting for spaces
These actions generally count as actual traffic violations, not just shopping center rules. Fines for handicapped parking violations can reach $250, while fire lane violations typically cost $50-$150 depending on the municipality.
Snow-covered vehicle operation
Drivers must remove all snow and ice from their vehicles before driving. This includes the roof, hood, trunk and all windows.
If snow or ice dislodges from your vehicle and causes injury or death, you face fines between $200 and $1,000. Even without causing harm, officers can issue citations with fines starting at $50.
Obstructed vision
You have a car full of festive shopping bags, decorations or perhaps even a large Christmas tree tied to the roof. You need to take extra care that these items do not block your vision.
State law prohibits any obstruction that materially interferes with the driver’s view through the windshield or side windows. That tall stack of presents on your back seat shelf or a dangling air freshener obscuring your sightline could lead to citation for causing or nearly causing an accident.
Failure to yield to pedestrians
Shopping districts and downtown areas see massive increases in foot traffic during the holidays. Pedestrians often rush across busy intersections, sometimes stepping into the crosswalk before you expect them.
Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within any crosswalk, marked or unmarked, if the pedestrian is already in the driver’s lane or the immediate adjacent lane. Failure to yield is a serious offense.
This violation is taken very seriously because it prioritizes safety over traffic flow, carrying two points on your record.
What to do after receiving a citation?
Contending with a traffic ticket in Pennsylvania can be stressful, but refrain from simply paying the fine and accepting the points. Every traffic violation results in points on your record and potentially higher insurance premiums, impacting your long-term finances.
You have the right to challenge the citation, question the officer’s methods and seek a reduction in points or a dismissal of the charge. An experienced legal professional can help you address the alleged traffic violation and protect your driving record during this holiday season and beyond.