Have you ever forgotten to use your turn signal or signaled too late before making a turn? In California, proper signaling isn’t just a courtesy—it’s the law. California Vehicle Code Section 22108: Failure to Signal Before Turning or changing lanes is the law that requires signaling.
Let’s break down what this law means, why it’s important, and what could happen if you’re caught violating it. If you’ve been charged with this crime, contact our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Simmrin Law Group.
Our lawyers are not afraid to appear in court. Our founder, Michal Simmrin, has helped defend clients in over 100 criminal trials, from homicide to traffic violations like this one. Find out how we can help you with a free consultation.
Understanding California Vehicle Code 22108
The law is concise but crucial for road safety. Here’s what it states:
Drivers must give a signal of intention to turn right or left continuously during the last 100 feet traveled before turning
This simple requirement plays a significant role in preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow. Proper signaling:
- Alerts other drivers of your intentions
- Gives pedestrians and cyclists time to react
- Helps prevent accidents at intersections
Consequences of Failing to Signal Properly
If you’re caught violating Vehicle Code 22108, you may face:
- A traffic citation
- Fines associated with the violation
- Points on your driving record
- Potential increases in insurance premiums
- Additional charges and consequences if you cause a crash
Understanding Points on Your California Driving Record
When you’re cited for a traffic violation in California, including failing to signal properly, you may receive points on your driving record. Here’s what you need to know:
How the Point System Works
California uses a point system to track driving violations. Most moving violations, including improper signaling, add one point to your record. More serious offenses, like reckless driving, can add two points.
Points typically stay on your record for three years from the date of the violation. Accumulating too many points can lead to severe penalties:
- Four points in 12 months, six points in 24 months, or eight points in 36 months can result in license suspension
- Your insurance rates may increase significantly with each point
- With too many points, you may be labeled a “negligent operator,” and you could lose your driving privileges.
Removing Points from Your Record
There are ways to address points on your record:
- Attending traffic school can sometimes prevent points from being added
- Maintaining a clean driving record over time will eventually clear old points
- Successfully contesting a ticket can prevent points from being added
Understanding the California DMV point system underscores the importance of contesting even minor violations like failure to signal. Each point can have long-lasting impacts on your driving privileges and insurance costs.
Possible Defenses Against a Failure to Signal Charge
If you’ve been cited for failing to signal properly, some defenses our lawyers may use include:
Mechanical Failure
You might argue that:
- Your vehicle’s turn signals were malfunctioning
- You were unaware of the malfunction at the time
Emergency Maneuver
In some cases, you might claim that:
- You had to make a sudden turn to avoid a hazard
- There wasn’t time to signal for the full 100 feet
Obscured View
You could potentially argue that:
- The officer’s view was obstructed, leading to a mistaken observation
- Environmental factors (like heavy rain) made your signal less visible
The “100 Feet” Rule: What It Means in Practice
Understanding what 100 feet looks like on the road is something new drivers need to learn. Here’s a practical way to think about it:
- 100 feet is about the length of six to seven parked cars
- At 30 mph, you cover 100 feet in just over two seconds
- Always err on the side of signaling earlier rather than later
What to Do if You’re Cited for Failing to Signal
If you receive a citation for violating Vehicle Code 22108, here’s what to do:
- Remain calm and cooperate with the officer. You must identify yourself to them in California.
- Don’t admit fault, but be respectful
- Note the exact location and circumstances
- Consider your options for contesting the ticket by speaking with a criminal defense attorney.
How Simmrin Law Group Can Help
At Simmrin Law Group, we understand that even minor traffic violations can have significant consequences. If you’ve been cited for failing to signal properly or any other traffic violation, we’re here to assist you. Our experienced traffic attorneys can:
- Analyze the specifics of your case
- Explain your rights and potential defenses
- Investigate the circumstances of your citation
- Challenge the evidence against you when appropriate
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties
- Represent you in court to potentially minimize fines or points on your license
Don’t let a citation for improper signaling impact your driving record or lead to unnecessary fines. Contact Simmrin Law Group today for a consultation. Let us help you navigate California’s traffic laws, explore all possible defenses, and protect your driving privileges.