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334-333-3333Driving safely means more than just stopping at red lights. Other traffic laws, such as wearing a seatbelt or not driving with distractions, are equally crucial to road safety. Unfortunately, some drivers ignore these laws, leading to dangerous situations and numerous accidents.
There were 144,263 traffic crashes in Alabama in 2022, resulting in more than 986 fatalities and 37,935 injuries. 57% of those who died weren’t wearing a seatbelt, and 67 deaths were associated with distracted driving.
Understanding and adhering to all traffic regulations can reduce the risk of accidents and keep roads safe. If you’re involved in a car crash, contact our Alabama car accident lawyers at The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers for legal advice.
Texting while driving is illegal in Alabama, but it remains one of the most frequently ignored rules. Many drivers still text behind the wheel, underestimating the danger or believing they can safely multitask. This oversight increases the risk of accidents, often with severe or fatal consequences.
To combat this risky behavior, Alabama imposes fines of up to $150 and adds points to driver’s licenses.
Alabama law requires all front-seat occupants to wear a seatbelt and passengers aged 15 and younger to be belted in regardless of their seating position. Despite this, many drivers and passengers neglect to buckle up, increasing the risk of severe injury or death in an accident.
Failing to wear a seatbelt can result in a $25 fine and, more critically, can lead to preventable injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash.
Speed limits are set to ensure the safety of all road users. However, speeding is a common violation in Alabama, often due to driver carelessness or willful ignoring of the rules. Whether on highways or residential streets, exceeding the speed limit can lead to devastating accidents. In 2022, over 6,000 crashes involved speeding, 126 of them fatal.
Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. Penalties for speeding can include hefty fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance rates. For instance, street racing can result in a $500 fine and 5 days in jail for a first conviction.
Traffic signs are essential for regulating traffic flow and ensuring safety. However, many drivers ignore or misinterpret these signs, leading to dangerous situations. Commonly ignored signs include stop signs, yield signs, and no-entry signs. Alabama saw 6,159 accidents and 25 deaths in 2022 due to failure to heed a sign, signal, or officer.
Failing to adhere to these signs can cause collisions and disrupt the orderly movement of traffic. Penalties for ignoring traffic signs can include fines, points on your driving record, and license suspension in severe cases.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most dangerous traffic violations. Despite strict laws and severe penalties, DUI remains an issue in Alabama, with 3,895 accidents and 97 deaths in 2022.
The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Alabama is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over. Many drivers continue to ignore DUI laws, often due to overconfidence in their driving abilities or a misjudgment of their level of impairment. Penalties for DUI can include hefty fines, imprisonment, and loss of driving privileges.
Ignoring a red light endangers all road users, including the driver, other motorists, and pedestrians. The consequences can be severe, leading to deadly intersection collisions. To deter this risky behavior, penalties for running a red light in Alabama include fines, points on the driver’s record, and civil settlements if the violation results in an accident.
Stopping for pedestrians is essential for safety, especially at crosswalks where they have the right-of-way. In Alabama, drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but this rule is often ignored due to distractions or impatience. Drivers who fail to stop put pedestrians at serious risk.
Legal consequences include fines, points on driving records, and higher insurance premiums. Civil liabilities can also be severe if a pedestrian is injured, making the driver responsible for injuries and other damages.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a traffic accident, seek legal advice as soon as possible. The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers specialize in handling traffic accident cases and can help protect your rights. We understand the complexities of traffic laws and the consequences of non-compliance. Our experienced team will fight for the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us explain your legal options and secure the financial support you need for your injuries.
