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What is a Traffic Control Device? 

Traffic control devices are legally installed devices, such as; warning signs, signals, or pavement markings. These types of devices are put in place by an authority of a public body or officials having jurisdiction for regulating, warning, and/or guiding traffic.

The Florida Statute § 316.04 states “The driver of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any official traffic control device applicable thereto, placed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter unless otherwise directed by a police officer…”

Violation of a Traffic Control Device 

Amidst heavy traffic and hectic roadways, it’s no secret that Florida roadways can become overwhelming for even the most experienced and cautious drivers. An individual who fails to obey a traffic control device, whether it was a simple mistake or not, may end up with an unwanted traffic ticket. In Florida, drivers can receive a ‘violation of a traffic control device’ for any of the following:

  • Running a red light
  • Running a stop sign
  • Passing in a no-passing zone
  • Speeding
  • Failing to yield
  • Encroaching on a sidewalk
  • Going the wrong way on a one-way street
  • Ignoring flashing lights
  • Making an illegal U-turn

 

What is the Fine for a Violation of a Traffic Control Device?

While fines for violation of a traffic control device vary among counties, the base fine for this type of ticket in Florida is $158.00. Depending on the county you live in, additional fees can be added to this amount. In some counties, you can face up to $300 in fines for a violation of a traffic control device.

 

How Many Points Does a Violation of a Traffic Control Device add to your License? 

This type of ticket will add 3 points to your license. This can put chronic traffic violaters in a position of having their license suspended if the violation is not taken care of promptly.

 

What are Your Options?

When you receive a violation of a traffic control device, you have 3 options:

  • Pay the ticket and accept the 3 points on your license: While paying a ticket and accepting points added to your license may seem like the ‘easiest’ option, it is crucial to consider that points added to your license are no small matter. Keep in mind that accumulating just 12 points within a year can lead to license revocation.
  • Attend driving school: If you are eligible, you can attend driving school to remove the points from your license. However, you can only attend driving school once a year, and a maximum of five times. Although you will still be required to pay your fines and find the time to attend your online courses, the completion of the driving school will remove the points on your driving record.
  • Hire an experienced traffic attorney: When fighting a traffic ticket, you are able to argue your case however, if you are not familiar with Florida traffic laws this will very seldom lead to a positive outcome. An experienced traffic attorney knows Florida traffic laws and can quickly think on their feet in a courtroom. When you hire an attorney, they will go through great lengths to assist you in removing points on your license, as well as avoiding fees.

 

Hire an Experienced Attorney 

If you have received a ticket for a violation of a traffic control device, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to get through this matter. At Rivera Law, our traffic ticket attorneys have been helping clients for over twenty years and we will be glad to help you! Call our office at 561-651-9322 for your consultation today!