4 Tips for Avoiding Traffic Tickets

It happens to everyone. We don’t think about how we’re driving or the problems with our cars until we see the flashing lights in our rearview mirror. At that point, there is not avoiding traffic tickets.

Nobody wants to get pulled over. Tickets mean paying money and losing points on your license. Getting in trouble for your driving increases the cost of your insurance. You don’t want to pay more than you have to.

There are plenty of tips out there to keep you safe, but what about tips to prevent you from getting pulled over. Don’t start the 2019 new year on the wrong foot. Take a look at the list below to keep yourself ticket-free this year by avoiding traffic tickets.

1. Don’t Speed

Of course, our #1 tip is about speeding. Everyone knows this is a sure-fire way to get into trouble. The Texas Department of Transportation says that Texan law sets the maximum speed at 70 mph; however there are some exceptions.

Speeding is a significant cause of accidents. Faster speeds mean slower reaction and braking times. Also, pay attention to school zones and speed limit changes when passing through town.

2. Don’t Use Your Cellphone

Sometimes cell phones are helpful when we are in the car. Especially when trying to navigate a new route or are looking up directions. However, cell phones have become an enormous driving distraction. Driving while on the phone is just plain dangerous.

If you’re talking or texting on your phone while driving, you’re distracted. This means you are not paying attention to the road or the other people around you. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, one in five crashes involves a distracted driver.

Driving while distracted can be fatal. A text message can wait. Pay attention to the road.

3. Follow the Rules of the Road

Following the rules includes some pretty big no-nos and a lot of different violations. You could be pulled over for running a red light at an intersection, pulling a U-turn in the middle of the road, and taking an illegal turn. Rules of the road are meant to be followed, so don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re exempt from obeying them.

4. Keep Up Vehicle Responsibilities

When it comes to keeping up your car’s maintenance and identification up to date, it’s important to take care of this earlier than later. Particularly in Texas, you can get pulled over for many things that fall under this category. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Broken Headlights or Taillights

Under Texan law, it is illegal to drive with a broken headlight or taillight. If you are pulled over for this, expect a fine.

Driving at night or in fog with missing headlights or taillights is dangerous (https://northwestautohouston.com/safety-tips-for-driving-at-night/). Other drivers may not be able to see you and having a missing light makes it harder for you to see the road.

Broken Turn Signal

You should always use your blinker to signal when you are taking a turn. If your turn signal is broken or you’re not using it, you can be fined.

Outdated Tags and License Plates

Registering your car with the state is essential. Having outdated tags could be a reason a police officer could pull you over. You should also be aware of your license plates.

Front and rear license plates are mandatory in Texas. They must be displayed clearly and must be visible at night. You should double check your plates before the next time you get on the road.

Cracked Windshield

Many people aren’t aware that a cracked windshield can be grounds for a fine. Most of the time tiny cracks are not an issue. However, if the crack is easily visible and obstructs the driver’s vision, then there is a problem.

If you notice a crack forming in your windshield, you should take care of it right away. A change in atmosphere or weather can cause the crack to grow. If you catch the crack early, you could have it filled in, saving you the hassle of replacing your entire windshield.

Loud Exhaust

If your car’s exhaust is excessively noisy, it could be considered a public disturbance. Plus, this could also be your car telling you that there’s a problem that needs to be fixed. Maybe your muffler is on its way out. Fixing this when the new sound begins will save you from paying a traffic fine.

If you do get pulled over at any time, remain calm. Listening and cooperating with the police officer will make the situation easier for you and them. If you receive a fine for a traffic violation make sure to pay it on time. If you feel you were wrongly accused, there is the option of appearing in court. But, it’s best to just avoid getting pulled over by following these tips for avoiding traffic tickets.

Remember that driving safely and taking care of your vehicle are proved ways to avoid traffic penalties. If you have a question or concern about the state of your car, come see us at Northwest Auto Center (281) 894-8880.