Vehicle Code 21460 Crossing Double Yellow Lines on California’s Roads refers to the lines across the state. With so much traffic, confusion can arise, especially regarding road markings like double yellow lines. Maybe you’ve unintentionally crossed them or simply want to be a more informed driver. That guide is here to help!
We understand that navigating traffic laws can be stressful. That piece aims to explain California Vehicle Code clearly and straightforwardly about Section 21460. But remember, only an experienced Burbank car accident lawyer from Simmrin Law Group can answer specific questions regarding your case.
Explanation of What Double Yellow Lines Signify on the Road
Imagine you’re cruising down a busy highway, focused on the road ahead. Suddenly, you see a set of bold yellow lines painted down the center. These aren’t just random stripes – they’re there for a crucial reason: your safety and the safety of others.
Think of double yellow lines as a clear and present message from the road itself. They act as a divider, separating traffic traveling in opposite directions. These lines are especially important on high-speed roads, where even a small mistake can have serious consequences. For instance, a man crossed a double line and caused a severe accident in Moreno Valley.
Defining California VC 21460
According to California Vehicle Code Section 21460, it is a violation to cross double parallel solid yellow lines at any time. Your Burbank car accident lawyer can explain in detail. However, there are some exceptions for crossing double white lines, including if the driver is:
- Turning left at an intersection
- Turning out of a driveway or private road
- Making a U-turn
Additionally, a driver can cross double parallel lines where one is broken if the broken line is the first line they cross and they are crossing to pass a vehicle in front of them before reentering their lane.
Penalties for Crossing Double Yellow Lines
Crossing double yellow lines is an infraction under VC 21460. A violation can result in a fine of $234 and a point on your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record. Additionally, you could face a negligent operator license suspension if you collect too many points within a specific period.
A negligent driver suspension will occur if you accumulate the following:
- Four points within 12 months
- Six points within 24 months
- Eight points within 36 months
In addition to a potential suspension of your license, points on your driving record are reported to your insurance provider. As a result, you could potentially face years of increased insurance rates.
Benefits of Attending Traffic School
You will not be required to attend traffic school after receiving a ticket for crossing double yellow lines under California VC Section 21460. However, it might be in your best interest to do so anyway. By attending traffic school, you will likely be able to avoid getting a point added to your license.
That can be crucial, especially if you are close to having enough points for a negligent driver’s license suspension. Here’s how attending traffic school can benefit you:
- Save money. Traffic school fees are typically much lower than the cost of a traffic ticket.
- Reduce points on your license. In many cases, completing traffic school allows you to get points removed from your driving record.
- Become a safer driver. These courses offer valuable reminders and updates on traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and safe road etiquette.
- A fresh start. Let’s be honest; sometimes, we all make mistakes. Traffic school allows you to learn from your ticket and move forward with a clean slate.
If you’ve received a traffic ticket, don’t feel discouraged. Traffic school can be a valuable tool in minimizing the impact and even turning it into a positive learning experience. So, consider attending traffic school – it might be the perfect way to get back on track and become a more informed and responsible driver.
Failure to Appear
The last thing you want to do if you receive a ticket under Vehicle Code 21460 is to ignore it. The consequences for this course of action can be far more severe and may include a jail sentence. When ticketed in California, a driver is required to sign a written promise to appear in court.
Failure to appear is a violation of California Vehicle Code 40508. That is a misdemeanor offense in California. If you are found guilty of willfully failing to appear in court, you could face:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Summary probation
You can be found guilty of violation VC40508, even if you were not guilty of the underlying offense for which you were initially ticketed.
Defenses Against a Vehicle Code 21460 Ticket
There are many potential defenses that you might be able to use if you are facing a Vehicle Code 21460 ticket. Some of the most common defenses include:
Exception
As mentioned, there are exceptions for crossing double parallel lines in some situations. For example, if you crossed a double white line while committing a legal U-turn, you should not have been ticketed for violating VC 21460.
Emergency
There are some emergencies where you may have been justified in crossing a double parallel line. For instance, if you crossed the line to avoid a collision, you have not violated Vehicle Code 21460.
No Violation
Sometimes, police officers make mistakes. Perhaps you crossed a double yellow line to pass a vehicle in front of you in an area where the line nearest you was broken. The police officer may have been mistaken about where the pass occurred and thought you passed further down the road where both yellow lines were solid.
It can be challenging to beat a traffic ticket without evidence to support your case. If you can provide witnesses, photographs, or video surveillance, your odds of getting your ticket thrown out will increase dramatically.
California Vehicle Code Section 21460: Crossing Double Yellow Lines FAQ
California’s roads keep us all connected, but navigating traffic laws can sometimes feel like a confusing maze. This section tackles common questions about California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 21460, helping you understand the rules of the road regarding double yellow lines.
Can I Ever Cross Double Yellow Lines?
Yes, there are exceptions. CVC 21460 allows crossing if the lines are broken on your side of the road to indicate designated passing zones. You can also cross to enter a driveway or parking lot, but only if it’s safe and legal to do so.
What Happens if a Police Officer Sees Me Cross Double Yellow Lines?
That can result in a hefty fine and points added to your driving record. In some cases, especially if it causes an accident, more serious consequences might apply.
I Accidentally Crossed the Double Yellow Lines. What Should I Do?
If you receive a ticket for violating CVC 21460, it’s a smart move to consult with a Burbank traffic ticket lawyer. An attorney from Simmrin Law Group can review your case, explore potential defenses based on the specific circumstances, and advise you on the best course of action.
Can Attending Traffic School Help With a Ticket for Crossing Double Yellow Lines?
In many cases, yes. Completing traffic school allows you to get points removed from your driving record in some situations. That can make a big difference when it comes to future insurance premiums and potential license suspensions.
I’m Not Sure if the Double Yellow Lines Were Broken on My Side. What Should I Do?
If you’re unsure about the specific road markings where you received the ticket, a Burbank traffic ticket lawyer can help clarify the situation and determine the best legal approach for your case.
Will a Traffic Ticket for Crossing Double Yellow Lines Increase My Insurance Rates?
It’s a possibility. Insurance companies track driving records, and points from traffic violations can lead to higher premiums. Traffic school completion, however, can sometimes help offset these increases.
Is There a Time Limit to Contest a Traffic Ticket for Crossing Double Yellow Lines?
Yes, there is. Each court has its own deadline for contesting a ticket. Don’t delay! Contacting a Burbank traffic ticket lawyer as soon as possible after receiving your ticket is important to ensure you meet all deadlines and have the opportunity to fight the citation.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer Today at No Cost
Simmrin Law Group offers free consultations with experienced Burbank traffic ticket lawyers. During this consultation, you can discuss the details of your citation, explore potential defense options based on your specific circumstances, and get clear answers to your questions.
Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to navigating the legal system. Contact us today for a free consultation. A Burbank traffic ticket lawyer can be your advocate throughout this process, ensuring your rights are protected and exploring all available options to minimize the impact of the citation.