Our society relies on cars to get around more than just about any other place on earth. So, it’s not exactly news that millions of people get pulled over each year for moving violations. These offenses are so prevalent that, in Illinois, traffic court sees more cases than any other court in the state. Even longtime drivers need reminders to avoid breaking the law and getting a ticket.
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, making it a good time to refresh your understanding of common moving violations – as well as the behaviors that will help you avoid them.
Not Following Illinois & Wisconsin Rules of the Road
A frequent cause of moving violations is simply disobeying traffic signs and red lights. However, these kinds of infractions can lead to serious accidents that may result in property damage or even fatalities, not to mention fines.
Chapter 4 in this Illinois Rules of the Road guide outlines the various traffic laws every driver should know, explaining how to follow each one. Anyone who is unclear on speed limits, highway protocol, and other vital driving guidelines should refer to the guide for a refresher. Meanwhile, keep in mind basic but important ways to avoid a moving violation:
- Stay alert at all times
- Arrange for other means of transportation if you haven’t slept
- Be extra cautious when approaching intersections
- Don’t cut corners – follow all posted signs
- Remain calm and patient – traffic is unpredictable
Don’t Speed: Be Patient Behind the Wheel
One of the most common reasons people get moving violations is by speeding. Yet exceeding the speed limit is known to increase the risk of accidents and injuries, not only to the driver and passengers but also to others on the road. As a rule, remain calm and don’t let your impatience get the better of you.
To avoid speeding violations, drivers should stay mindful of speed limits. In Wisconsin, the speed limit on rural interstate highways is typically 70 mph, at least 5 mph higher than on most Illinois highways. If you drive between the states, keep an eye out for those changes. You should also adjust your speed to road conditions and go slower if necessary.
Even Small Traffic Violations Can Cost You
One deterrence might be to remember that even the smaller, “petty” offenses can cost you. Running a stop sign can result in a ticket of up to $1,000 in Illinois. And being stopped by a traffic officer will only delay you further, making you wish you had paid attention and followed the speed limit.
If you hit another car or injure someone due to a petty offense, you could be charged with a crime on top of being ticketed. No one wants to be involved in an accident. But in the rush to get to work on time, people make mistakes. That’s why it is wise to take a breath before driving, even if you are running late.
The Different Types of Distracted Driving
We’ve all seen the ads about the risks of texting while driving. However, there are many ways to be distracted, not all of them involving a phone. Simply removing a hand from the wheel compromises the attention of a driver. If you reach to get something from your bag, that is considered both a manual and cognitive distraction. Glancing at your bag while doing it is yet a third type of distraction, the visual kind.
Consider the many sources of distractions in a vehicle that most drivers experience:
- Pets and small children
- Smart phones
- Music and programs from devices or the radio
- Passengers conversing
- Interacting with your dashboard and features such as window controls
- Actions like drinking coffee or eating while driving
Penalties to Discourage Distracted Driving
Using a mobile device while driving has become a major contributor to moving violations, too. All states have penalties to discourage drivers from these types of behaviors. In Illinois, if you are in an accident while looking at your phone, you can face steep fines and have your license suspended, not to mention facing higher insurance premiums when you start driving again.
A lot of easy adjustments can help you avoid penalties for distracted driving:
- Organize your belongings before you turn the car on
- Adjust your seat and mirrors while still parked
- Stay off the phone while driving
- Use hands-free devices
- Keep your windshield clean
- Stay focused on the road at all times
- Make sure passengers know not to distract you
Avoid Parking Violations: Go to CFSC Auto Services in Illinois & Wisconsin
Only you have control over your driving behavior. However, CFSC Auto Services in Illinois and Wisconsin can help you avoid other fines associated with parking tickets. Our license services help you update your:
- Auto title and transfers
- Vehicle plates and registration
- City stickers and other routine auto tasks
Don’t get a pricey parking violation because you missed a deadline. Visit your local CFSC Auto Services today to keep your plates and stickers up to date!