Red Light / Stop Sign violations

The Traffic Control Signals law, or Failure to Stop at a Red Signal is found in the PA Vehicle code under section 3112. It is a three (3) point moving violation if convicted. It states that a vehicle that faces a steady red signal alone shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or before entering the intersection and shall remain stopped until it is appropriate to proceed. Bottom line: If the traffic light turns red while you are still in the intersection, you can be found guilty of this offense.

Many of my clients tell me that they believed the traffic signal was yellow when they entered the intersection and as such, they did not feel that they were guilty of going through a red light. However, in order to be found Not Guilty, the vehicle must clear the intersection before the signal turns red. If the light turned red while your vehicle was still in the intersection, then it is a violation of the Traffic Control Signals law.

That being said, it is always worthwhile to plead Not Guilty and go to court to either fight the ticket or try to obtain a reduction to zero points. Many judges will permit us to attend the court hearing on your behalf, so you may not even have to attend the court hearing in order to get your points reduced. Additionally, we offer a money-back guarantee on most violations where if we are unable to negotiate a reduction in points, we will gladly refund your entire fee.

The offense of “Duties at a Stop Sign” is found in section 3323(b) of the PA Vehicle Code and states that driver approaching a stop sign shall stop at a clearly marked stop line or, if there is no stop line, then at a point where the driver has a clear view of approaching traffic before entering the intersection. It further states that the driver shall yield to a vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another roadway so closely as to constitute a hazard. If you are convicted of a stop sign violation, three (3) points will be assessed to your driving record.

This offense covers a stop sign violation in 2 different scenarios. The first, and most common scenario is when a driver does not come to a complete stop at a stop sign and does what is commonly referred to as a “Rolling Stop” or a “California Stop”. If you do not come to a complete stop, then you can be found guilty of Failing to Stop at a Stop Sign.

The second scenario involves a motorist’s “Duty” at a Stop Sign and many clients are confused why they received this ticket when they in fact did bring their vehicle to a complete stop. “Duties at Stop Signs” occurs when a motorist does actually stop at a stop sign, but fails to recognize that another vehicle is approaching and pulls out unsafely in front of that vehicle. This usually occurs at an intersection that is not controlled by a 4 way stop, which the motorist does not realize and pulls out in front of another vehicle, typically resulting in a crash or other evasive maneuver. It is a three (3) point offense if found guilty.

If you are cited with a Stop Sign moving violation you should follow the instructions on the ticket and plead Not Guilty. You only have 10 days to enter a plea of either guilty or not guilty and failure enter a plea within 10 days can lead to an automatic license suspension from Penndot.

The attorneys at Ellis B. Klein & Associates have a 99% success rate in reducing points on most moving violations. If we are unable to reduce the points on your moving violation then we will refund your fee in full. Additionally, many judges will permit us to appear in court for you, so you may not have to even go to court to get your points reduced. Call us BEFORE paying the fine.

*Source: Avvo.com Client Reviews

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Posted by Jack

Had a stop sign charge put up on me by the local police. I did not want any more points on my driving record/we had recently bumped back down to more affordable car insurance after a year of paying nearly double a premium that we were used to paying. Found him to be an awesome lawyer. Great prompt communication, knowledge about traffic court workings/options on how to proceed, and getting the most ideal result for you at a reasonable price. Even though I wasn't able to attend my hearing since I was scheduled to work the same day which it was scheduled, he represented me on my behalf that day & was able to bump it down to a 0-point non-moving violation. As such, glowing reviews of him are highly justified. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for representation. Thanks again!

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Posted by Susan

I hired Ellis Klein to help with my careless driving citation. I was scared that I might get points on my license, which I cannot afford. Ellis was able to put me in ease within first 5 minutes. I was impressed by the professionalism and knowledge he has. His company is very quick in responding and doing the job they are hired for. I didn’t even have to go to court and they took care of my case so I did not have any points on my license. So very pleased.

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Posted by Mr. Meyers

I am glad I hired Ellis B. Klein to represent me for my car accident hearing. After the accident I didn't know which lawyer to hire. I contacted Ellis and I found him to be cordial and knowledgeable. His fees seemed reasonable and he was prompt in responding. During the day of the hearing, he was friendly, professional, and thorough in explaining the process and the situation as he saw it. His legal expertise and advice was beneficial in helping resolve my situation. Both before and during the hearing, he exhibited his professional skills. Both my wife and I would recommend him highly and would use him again.

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Posted by Maria

I was accused of driving through the red light. I hired attorney Ellis Klein and he was able to get my case dismissed! I'm forever grateful for your professionalism and tenacity. Thank you.