Road rules are not just meant to prevent chaotic scenes that lead to a traffic snarl up, but to also keep everyone safe. No road user would want to get stuck in traffic as it wastes both fuel and time. Again, no road user would want to bring harm to themselves or the other drivers too.
But despite this, drivers don’t seem to follow the driving laws and act as though they are the only ones on the road. According to one lawyer from Naqvi Law, a majority of road accident lawsuits that they receive arise from drivers not following the laws; whether it’s taking a wide turn, following another driver too closely, distraction, drunk/drug driving or aggressive driving. All these seem quite normal, but have the potential of changing someone’s life for good. A simple DUI case, for instance, can cost someone their driving license, and money too, but that’s only, to say the least. Sometimes, DUI cases (and other driving mistakes) involve fatalities.
When we talk about traffic laws violation, we are not only referring to other drivers. In fact, you may also be breaking a rule or two in your effort to get to your daily endeavors (whether it’s work or meeting) on time. The reality of the matter is there are some laws that all of us break and get away with – even though we shouldn’t.
The six driving rules we most commonly break:
Speed limits
Most airports, towns, crowded areas and industrial places have fixed speed limits that should be adhered to for free traffic flow. The limits are also designed to prevent accidents – and ensuing lawsuits. Despite this, many of us still violate the restrictions.
Driving without insurance and license
All competent drivers require a valid and updated driving license and insurance. But some of us don’t carry driver’s licenses or fail to update them. Although many get away with it, it is a violation of traffic laws. In fact, if you happen to get into an accident and injure someone else, you may find yourself in a significant financial crisis when they file a case against you for compensation.
Driving under influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious traffic offense and is punishable by law. If you are caught DUI, you will be taken to court and charged with drunk or drug driving. In Nevada, you may spend two days to six months in jail or 24 to 96 hours of community service. You may pay fines ranging from $400 to $1,000 plus court fees (around $600). You may also be subject to a 185-day suspension of your driver’s license plus a $35 civil penalty fee.
Driving without seat belts
Seat belts are meant to keep us safe in case of an accident as they hold us down to the chair. But despite the enforcement of laws regarding their use, many drivers and passengers still ignore their use.
Distracted driving
The chances of crashing and death are 23 times higher for distracted driving. Distractions include texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, singing or listening to music, shaving, applying makeup, trying to retrieve something, rubbernecking and trying to read a map, book or newspaper while driving.
Aggressive driving
Stressed out drivers and inexperienced drivers tend to enjoy running stop signs, making illegal U-turns, failing to yield to others and burn out. The fun stops when someone is injured.