Fort Lauderdale Failure to Use a Turn Signal Attorneys
Receiving a ticket for a noncriminal traffic infraction is not the same as being charged with a criminal offense that may result in prison time. However, handling the ticket, and facing the consequences that come with it, is very frustrating, inconvenient, and unnerving. For example, you may have to appear in court, pay court fines and costs, and may have points added to your license after receiving a ticket for failure to signal. Fortunately, a Fort Lauderdale failure to use a turn signal attorney can help with your ticket and the consequences you may face.
What Does it Mean to Fail to Signal?
The Florida Statutes outline when drivers are required to use their turn signals. Under the law, it is illegal for anyone to turn their vehicle right or left unless and until the motion can be made safely and even then, the appropriate turn signals must be used. The law also states that drivers must signal their intention to turn right or left at least 100 feet before making a turn. Cyclists do not have to use hand signals continuously if the hand is necessary to control or operate the bike.
Additionally, no driver can stop or decrease their speed suddenly without first signaling appropriately to any driver nearby, when it is reasonable to do so. For example, if a driver suddenly approached a multi-vehicle accident and had to stop suddenly to avoid becoming involved in it, they would not be found guilty of failing to signal when stopping.
The statutes also dictate that drivers must use signals when turning, overtaking, or passing a vehicle and may not be used on one side only, on disabled or parked vehicles, or as a courtesy to signal to other drivers approaching from the rear. Essentially, the signals used cannot confuse other drivers. Signals should only be used to indicate which way a driver is moving, and not as a way to communicate with other motorists. A Fort Lauderdale failure to use a turn signal attorney can advise on when a person may receive a ticket for failing to signal.
What to Do if Charged with Failure to Use Turn Signal
If you receive a ticket for failing to use a turn signal, it is a non-criminal traffic violation. This means that you can appear in court and fight the ticket, or you can pay the fine and fee. The fee is sometimes substantial and can cause you significant financial stress, increased insurance premiums, and points added to your driver’s license. A attorney can represent you in court, fight your ticket, and help you avoid the other consequences of a ticket.
Call Our Fort Lauderdale Failure to Use a Turn Signal Attorney Today
If you have received a ticket for failing to use a turn signal, our Fort Lauderdale failure to use a turn signal attorney at Meldon Law can assist with your case. Call us today at 800-373-8000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about your legal options.