Violation of Traffic Control Device
To begin with, Florida Statutes section 316.074(1), considers a stop sign a traffic control device. Additionally, the law is very clear on stop signs. In fact, they don’t tell you roll through them, and they don’t tell you to just slow down. Actually, they tell you to stop, and if you don’t come to a complete stop, you can get a ticket.
Secondly, it depends on what county you’re in. But, if you plead guilty or they find you guilty of disobeying a traffic control device, the ticket will cost you a minimum of $150 plus surcharges. And, don’t get surprised if the fine and surcharges go well beyond $200. Also, if the violation occurred in a school or construction zone, expect to pay as much as double that amount.
Then, they will ding you at least three points off of your driver’s license. And, those points will increase your car insurance premiums even more. Fortunately, there is not a squad car at every corner. Yet, if there is one on the corner where you fail to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, you’ll want to contact us.
RHINO Lawyers
Thus, we are a tough, thick-skinned law firm. In fact, we offer a robust approach to traffic ticket defense and all Florida driver’s license issues. So, we know the importance of keeping you in the driver’s seat with a clean driving record.
By the way, moving violations can result in dramatically increased automobile insurance rates. As well as, large fines, and a suspended driver’s license. So, disputing your citation is your only chance of getting it dismissed, even if you think you are “guilty.”
Defenses for Violation of Traffic Control Device
First, we have several defenses available for the charge of violating a traffic control device. Hence, these are a few of them:
- Visibility: The traffic control sign must be clearly visible. As well as, unobstructed by vegetation, tree branches or construction machinery.
- The sign cannot appear twisted or have fallen over.
- Driving: The person cited must have been driving a motor vehicle. Also, he or she must also have approached a stop sign or other traffic control device.
- Complete Stop: The driver must have failed to come to a complete stop at the appropriate spot. In all honesty, it does not matter if it had a line or not. Thus, the determination of a complete stop is often made on whether the police officer saw a vehicle’s wheels stop moving. And, where they stopped moving.
