When you hear the words “hustle and bustle,” you may equate them with the Christmas season. However, there is something to be said for the price of haste. Assuredly, it’s not good ole Saint Nick who is intent on handing you a traffic ticket.
To take it a step further, “dashing through the snow,” should come with some disclaimers. For starters, there is the issue of stopping and obeying traffic signals. No doubt they are there for a reason. At the very least, safety is paramount when it comes to motor vehicle operation.
Why do drivers ignore traffic signals? For some, there might be some pressing business that seemingly transcends New Jersey traffic law. Others might not think there is any purpose in waiting and don’t understand why they should be required to stop for even a brief moment. Of course, it could be as simple as a mistake in judgment.
Whatever the reason may be, hundreds of New Jersey residents get caught running red lights every year, and hundreds more may get away with ignoring them. As a matter of fact, the problem is so bad that some communities have even advocated for the return of red-light cameras.
Even though New Jersey has eliminated the much-maligned red-light cameras, running traffic lights is still one of the most common types of moving violations in New Jersey.
Haste Makes Waste (of Money in Traffic Fines)
When it comes to intersections, there are a few laws on the books that you need to obey. Otherwise, you could find out quickly that haste makes waste. Here’s a breakdown of some important New Jersey laws to keep in mind:
- NJSA 39:4-80: When an intersection is controlled by a police officer, you must take direction as far as moving your vehicle
- NJSA 39:4-80.1: Under New Jersey law, there are also penalties for failing to obey hand signals from crossing guards.
- NJSA 39:4-81: A traffic ticket marked in violation of this law means that you failed to obey a traffic signal. If the light has malfunctioned, you were expected to treat the intersection as though it was a controlled by a Stop sign. In case you are uncertain about the colors used for traffic lights, you may want to review NJSA 39:4-105.
Meanwhile, you might want to think about the impact of any of these offenses on your pocket. Just because you don’t have to worry about red light cameras doesn’t mean you can’t be charged with running a red light.
What does a traffic ticket for a red light cost? First of all, it’s not just the amount of the fine, which can be as high as $200. You will be hit with court costs and also face hikes to your insurance premium. All in all, it could amount to a lot of money. Of course, there is also the possibility that you could lose your license as a result of an over-accumulation of motor vehicle points.
Contact Our Experienced NJ Traffic Lawyers Now
At the Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafaljo, our attorneys have decades of experience in helping clients faced with motor vehicle violations. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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