Whether you’re driving down I-35 in Dallas or cruising around the streets of San Antonio, Texas roads can be busy and unpredictable. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with a traffic violation. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common traffic violations Texans face and how to avoid them.
The Impact of Traffic Violations on Texas Drivers
In Texas, a traffic violation can lead to more than just a slap on the wrist. Beyond the immediate fines, a ticket can also raise your car insurance premiums, sometimes for years. You might wonder: How much does my car insurance go up after a ticket? According to NerdWallet, car insurance costs usually go up about 25% after receiving a ticket. Plus, If you accumulate too many tickets, you could face even more serious repercussions like a suspended license. A seemingly minor ticket can spiral into bigger issues, so it’s important to drive carefully and follow the rules to avoid these long-term financial headaches.
Common Texas Traffic Tickets and Violations
Knowing what the common infractions in Texas are can help you avoid them and keep your record clean. Here are a few of the most frequent violations drivers face in the Lone Star State:
- Speeding: It’s easy to go over the speed limit, especially on Texas’s wide highways, but speeding is one of the most common reasons drivers get tickets. Keep an eye on those speed limit signs to avoid an unnecessary fine.
- Running red lights: Intersections can be tricky, and trying to beat a red light might seem tempting. But running a red light is dangerous and can lead to a costly ticket, especially with red-light cameras in many areas.
- Failure to stop at stop signs: Missing a stop sign or not coming to a complete stop is another frequent violation. Always make sure to stop fully, even if the road looks clear.
- Driving without a seatbelt: Texas takes seatbelt safety seriously. It’s an easy fix, but it still happens a lot. If you’re not buckled up, whether driving or riding as a passenger, you could end up with a ticket.
- Not yielding: Sometimes it’s easy to forget to yield when you’re merging or at an intersection, but failing to give the right of way can lead to accidents or tickets. Just take a moment to slow down and let other drivers go.
Understanding the Consequences of Traffic Violations in Texas
In Texas, the consequences of traffic violations can quickly escalate, impacting both your wallet and your driving privileges. How much are traffic tickets in Texas? Fines for common infractions vary depending on the municipality. For example, here are some of the ticket costs for the city of Houston:
- Speeding violations: $224-$534
- Moving violations (accident involved): $309
- Moving violations (no accident involved): $169-$289
- Seat belt violations: $184-$334
But fines are just the beginning. Too many violations in a short period could result in a suspended license. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, your license may be suspended if you’re convicted of four or more moving violations within 12 months or seven within 24 months. Receiving multiple violations tied to a restriction on your driver’s license can also lead to a suspension.
As mentioned before, another thing to consider is your car insurance in Texas. Insurance companies keep a close eye on your driving record, and having traffic violations can lead to higher premiums. Even just one ticket can cause your insurance rates to go up, potentially costing you hundreds of dollars more each year.
How to Avoid Driving Tickets in Texas
Avoiding traffic tickets in Texas is easier than you might think with a little awareness and some smart driving habits. Here are some practical tips to help you stay ticket-free:
- Stick to speed limits and pay attention to road signs: It might seem obvious, but the simplest way to avoid a ticket is to follow the posted speed limits and obey traffic signs. Texas highways can be wide and open, making it tempting to speed, but staying within the limit can save you from hefty fines.
- Practice defensive driving: Defensive driving means being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential problems before they happen. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, be cautious at intersections, and avoid sudden lane changes.
- Use technology to your advantage: There are plenty of apps, like Waze and Google Maps, that provide real-time updates on traffic, speed limits, and even speed traps. These tools can help you stay informed and avoid speeding or missing important road signs.
The Role of Defensive Defense Courses in Texas
Taking a defensive driving course in Texas is a smart way to up your driving game, whether you want to refresh your skills or take care of a traffic ticket.
One of the best things about these courses is that they teach you how to handle tricky situations on the road. You’ll learn how to spot potential hazards, react faster, and make safer choices while driving—skills that can help you avoid future tickets.
There are also some financial perks. Completing a defensive driving course can often help you get a recent ticket dismissed so it won’t show up on your driving record. Plus, many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who take these courses.
Conclusion
Traffic tickets in Texas can really add up, but the good news is that you can avoid those unnecessary headaches by staying informed and practicing safe driving habits.
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