Traffic violations can carry penalties ranging from a $100 fine for a parking violation to a prison sentence for a serious moving violation. Yet in the hustle of commuting to work or making sure the kids get to school on time, these concerns have a way of taking a back seat to more pressing ones. That is, until you see a ticket on your windshield or lights flashing in your rear view mirror.
Even though most people consider themselves above average drivers, the fact is that billions of dollars are generated each year across the country because drivers are caught breaking the law. In Illinois, a speeding ticket could cost you up to $1,500, according to BankRate – not to mention endanger your life and the lives of those around you. The good news is it is possible to avoid getting ticketed, not just by reading and abiding by parking meters, but also by staying on top of the many infractions that cause drivers to get penalized each day.
Keep Your Car Legal, Registered and Looking Good
It’s vital to keep registration tags current. But you don’t need to wait in line at the DMV or Secretary of State’s Office to keep your tags and stickers up to snuff. CFSC Auto Services throughout the Midwest will handle those things for you and answer any questions you have about stickers, deadlines, and other details required by the state. issue a ticket. Make sure to repair cracked windows and replace bald tires, as these can often be the basis for a ticket.
Some drivers believe that even small things like keeping their car clean and taking care of minor repairs will keep the attention of law enforcement away from their vehicle. Whether a shappy-looking vehicle will draw more eyes on you is debatable, but it might signal to some people that it isn’t safe to drive.
Carry Auto Insurance in Illinois and Elsewhere
In states like Illinois, the law dictates that all motor vehicles must be registered and operated there to be covered by liability insurance. This type of insurance typically covers property damage, and possibly medical coverage for injuries, if you are involved in an accident. If you’re struggling to afford insurance, talk to an agent about your options. There may be a lower cost option available.
Educate Yourself About Common Moving Violations
A few types of moving violations bring in the most revenue because they are so commonly made. Here are three to keep in mind the next time you’re running behind schedule and tempted to disregard the rules of the road.
Disobeying Street Signs
Thanks to red light cameras, more people are being caught than ever before for running red lights. But disobeying any signs could get you in trouble. Be sure you’re familiar with all the signage where you drive and that you abide by them.
Speeding
Do you know the speed limit on all of the roads you take? Millions of drivers get speeding tickets each day, some of whom may not be aware that they were going too fast. Remember that the amount a driver is fined may depend on different factors, including how many miles over the limit they were traveling, whether they were in a construction or school zone, and their local laws.
DUIs and Distracted Driving
Many different factors can cause someone to drive recklessly. Driving while excessively tired is sometimes just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Add texting to the mix, and it’s no wonder that distracted driving is one of the biggest culprits. Even having loud, distracting passengers in the vehicle can cause you to
Take Care of Auto & Financial Needs at CFSC Auto Services
Your nearby CFSC Auto Services can take care of other routine auto service needs, as well as financial needs like check cashing and electronic money transfers. Whether to register your new vehicle, pick up your plates or transfer your title, we can handle it for you in minutes.
It’s important to develop smart habits as a driver. Stop by your nearest CFSC location or check us out online to find out what else we can do for you today.