From parking on the wrong side to using a cellphone while driving, there are many ways you may be inadvertently breaking the law when driving. These seemingly minor offenses can result in hefty fines, which can add up quickly if you're not careful. While you can't always avoid tickets, there are some ways to minimize your chances of getting fined. Here are 8 ways to avoid hefty fines when driving in the US.
Not only is speeding dangerous, but it's also expensive. The cost of a speeding ticket depends on the state you're in, but it can be $200 or more. And if you're caught going over 20 mph over the limit, you could end up with a suspended license. So obeying the posted speed limit is one of the best ways to avoid costly fines.
If you’ve received a speeding ticket, consider taking these steps:
If you're caught driving without insurance, you could be fined up to $500. Additionally, if you cause an accident while uninsured, you may be liable for any damages. So it's important to make sure you have adequate insurance coverage before hitting the road.
If you can't afford insurance, consider these options:
Wearing your seatbelt is not only a good way to avoid hefty fines, but it's also necessary to stay safe on the road. In most states, adults can be fined up to $50 for not wearing a seatbelt. And if you're caught driving with a child who isn't properly secured, you could be fined up to $500. So make sure everyone in your car is buckled up before you start driving. If you're not sure how to properly buckle a child in a car seat, consult your local DMV or police department. You can also consider using a license plate blocker to avoid traffic tickets.
If you're caught driving with an expired license, you could be fined up to $200. Furthermore, if your license has expired for more than a year, you could face jail time. So make sure your license is up-to-date before getting behind the wheel. If your license has expired, you'll need to visit your local DMV to renew it. Depending on your state's requirements, you may also need to take a written or driving test.
Parking in a handicapped area can lead to fines up to $500. So park in such spots only if you have a proper permit. If you're disabled and need to use a handicap spot, you'll need a permit from your local DMV. Once you have the permit, ensure it's properly displayed on your car before parking in a handicap spot.
Running a red light can lead to a fine of $100 or more. And if you cause an accident while running a red light, you could be held liable for any damages. You should come to a complete stop at red lights and yield to oncoming traffic before proceeding.
Making an illegal U-turn can result in a fine of $100 or more. So only make U-turns when it's safe and legal to do so. When making a U-turn, always yield to oncoming traffic and use your turn signal to let other drivers know what you're doing.
Getting fined on a busy day can be frustrating. Save the trouble of getting fined on the road by following the above-mentioned tips.
