Before You Forget, These Turns Can Get You a Ticket
It may have been years since you got your driver’s license. Or, maybe you just passed the test. There’s still a chance that you may not remember the law regarding which turns are legal. And, of course, which turns can get you a ticket.
According to a 2013 New Jersey State Police report, improper turns were only a contributing circumstance to a small number of fatal accident crashes. Of course, that doesn’t make them any less dangerous. Or, equally importantly, any less illegal. Violation of any traffic laws can result in a summons. Points and fines can all add up.
No Right Turn on Red
The “No Right Turn on Red” is a ticketed offense many drivers are faced with and understand. NJSA 39:4-115 deals with the general issue of left and right turns. Of course, you know the basics. You need to exhibit caution when making a turn. You also want to obey traffic signals and pay attention to any police officers directing intersection traffic. When it comes to turning right on red, drivers first need to come to full a stop. And, you can’t make the right on red if a sign tells you it isn’t permitted.
Of course, there is the remote chance that the “No Right on Red” sign was obscured or missing. In that case, you should let your attorney know as this may be a reason to fight your ticket.
Crossing Over Double Yellow Lines
It’s something that happens every day. You might even want to blame it on your GPS. You reach your destination on the left. The roadway is divided by double yellow lines. Is it legal to make that left turn? The yellow lines are intended to represent “no passing permitted.” The New Jersey statutes don’t seem to address the issue of crossing double lines to make a turn.
However, that’s not to say you can’t be ticketed under NJSA 39:4-123 and accused of failing to exercise caution when making the turn. This might be the case if you were involved in an accident. You could also be charged with failing to use turn signals under NJSA 39:4-126.
Questions about U-Turns
You might be under the impression that U-turns are generally frowned upon. Or, you may make them to quicken your route. Of course, you’re in New Jersey. And, you will almost always find a jughandle to help you turn back.
Here’s what you need to know about U-turns. Obviously, you can’t make them if there is a sign posted prohibiting them. NJSA 39:4-125 also disallows U-turns when a vehicle’s view is “obstructed within a distance of five hundred feet.” The distance applies to either direction.
Bottom line. If you’re making a U-turn in the Garden State, make sure you can see 500 feet ahead in either direction. Check for signs that make U-turns illegal. And, of course, always use caution when operating your vehicle.
Contact Us
Did you receive a ticket for an improper turn? At the Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafaljo, we can review the circumstances of the traffic citation and provide you information concerning fighting it. Give us a call to see how we can help.