Safety while driving is incredibly important, and violating traffic rules and regulations can put the safety of everyone at risk. While some car accidents are unavoidable, speeding or running a red light can increase the risk of getting into an accident (and a traffic ticket). Listed below are five of the most common traffic violations in the United States. 

Speeding 

Speeding is a very common traffic violation, and although, it may be common to speed, speeding can lead to serious consequences like license suspensions and accidents. According to attorney Jason Dunkle, “speeding ticket may seem like a minor infraction, but a conviction could result in serious penalties including loss of your license, fines, increased insurance premiums and even jail time.” The National Highway Traffic Safety states that speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities. When a person is driving at a high speed, they have less time to react to unexpected situations on the road, like other cars, pedestrians, or road hazards. If an accident happens while speeding, the chances of death or more severe injuries increase tremendously. 

Running a Red Light or Stop Sign 

Running red lights or stop signs are common traffic violations that can result in accidents and injuries. If a driver runs a red light, they can collide with vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists in the intersection. This can result in serious injuries or even death. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, running a red light was responsible for 846 deaths in 2019. Drivers who run a red light may be distracted, impatient, or simply unaware of the traffic violation. It’s important to always stay alert and remain patient while driving. 

Driving Without a Seat Belt 

 Wearing a seatbelt is a simple, but effective, way to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident. However, many drivers still fail to wear their seatbelts. Driving without a seatbelt can result in a fine and points on one’s license, and it is also a safety risk. If an accident happens while the driver doesn’t have a seatbelt, the unbelted driver can be thrown from the vehicle or collide with other passengers or objects inside the vehicle. The NHTSA states that seatbelts saved an estimated 14,955 lives in 2017. In order to stay safe and avoid fines, drivers (and passengers) should always wear a seatbelt.

Texting while Driving

Using a phone while driving is a very common but dangerous (and illegal) habit that can lead to serious consequences. If one is caught texting, talking, or using a phone while driving, they can receive a ticket, and points on one’s license, and it is a major safety risk. Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents on the road. It’s important for drivers to put their phone on, not disturb or turn it off when driving as well as avoid other activities like eating. 

Driving Under the Influence  

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense and a serious traffic violation. A person can receive a DUI is when they drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Driving while intoxicated can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even in death. In 2020, 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers which accounted for 30% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. This equates to one person dying every 45 minutes due to someone driving under the influence. This serious crime can result in fines and jail time. 

Drivers should take traffic laws seriously as violating them is a serious issue on the road. By obeying traffic laws, drivers can help keep themselves and others safe on the road. It is essential that drivers drive at a safe speed, follow traffic signals, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence.