Traffic Lights & Road Signs

Traffic Lights and Road Signs Offences in England and Wales

 

Understanding the Law

 

In England and Wales, adhering to traffic lights and road signs is essential for maintaining road safety and order.

 

The laws governing these offences are outlined in the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Highway Code.

 

Failing to comply with traffic lights and road signs can lead to serious consequences, including fines, penalty points, and even disqualification from driving.

 

Common Traffic Lights and Road Signs Offences

 

Some of the most common offences related to traffic lights and road signs include:

 

- Ignoring a Red Light: Failing to stop at a red traffic light. Ignoring a red traffic light is perhaps the most common road offence, but you can also face prosecution for ignoring amber lights with a red signal, if you fail to stop, or if your vehicle is over the line and police think you should have stopped.

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- Ignoring Stop or Give Way Signs: Not stopping or giving way when required.

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- Disobeying No Entry Signs: Entering a road or area where entry is prohibited.

If you ignore mandatory traffic signs and road markings, like “Give Way”, “Stop” and double white lines, you can also face prosecution for a road offence.

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- Violating Speed Limit Signs: Exceeding the sign posted speed limit.

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- Ignoring Lane or Turn Signs: Failing to follow lane or directional instructions.

 

These offences can be detected by traffic cameras or police officers, and penalties are imposed to deter dangerous driving.

 

Penalties for Traffic Lights and Road Signs Offences

 

The penalties for failing to comply with traffic lights and road signs can vary depending on the severity of the offence.

 

Common penalties include:

 

Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN):

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  - A fine of £100

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  - 3 penalty points on your driving licence

 

Court Penalties:

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  - A fine of up to £1,000

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  - Between 3 to 6 penalty points on your driving licence

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  - Possible disqualification from driving

 

More severe offences, such as dangerous driving resulting from ignoring traffic signals, can lead to harsher penalties, including imprisonment.

 

Defending Against Traffic Lights and Road Signs Offences

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Joe Rawlings can analyse all the evidence against you and put forward an effective defence to prevent you from being prosecuted or convicted

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Joe can assess the specifics of your case and explore possible defences.

 

These might include:

 

- Proving that the traffic lights or signs were not visible or obscured

Absent, non-conforming or damaged signs may provide a defence, but the rules are complex and detailed. It depends on the wording of the legislation and the nature of the defect.

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- Demonstrating that you had a legitimate reason for disobeying the signal or sign (e.g., to avoid an accident)

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- Questioning the accuracy or legality of the evidence presented against you

 

Get in touch with Joe Rawlings

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With increasingly complex junctions, signs & road markings, even the most cautious motorist can be at risk of a fine or penalty points.

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Don’t risk penalty points, or even disqualification from driving for a traffic light or road sign offence.

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If you have been accused of a traffic lights or road signs offence, contact Joe Rawlings today for expert legal assistance.

 

Joe specialises in defending traffic offences and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.