This statute is the failure to observe a traffic signal. There are two levels to this statute:
- Failing to observe a traffic signal and,
- Failing to observe a traffic signal in a safe corridor, construction zone or a 65 MPH area.
- Failing to observe the signal will normally cost a person $81 in New Jersey. But if a person ignores the signal in a safe corridor, construction zone, or a 65 MPH zone it will cost them $136. It is also a 2-point violation.
The most common example that falls under this statute is running a red light. Though oftentimes, people think there is no harm done in pushing a yellow light as it turns red, the truth is, this act is very dangerous, and law enforcement will act accordingly if they catch you doing so. Saying the light was yellow does not constitute a defense under New Jersey law, as yellow lights essentially mean you have to slow down and stop, not punch it through to make the changing light.
You should also understand that this statute applies to pedestrians as well. This means that if you ignore traffic lights and signs and law enforcement sees you do so, there is a very good chance they will approach and ticket you. Though this may not seem like a big deal initially, the truth is, it’s more than a simple fine. If you are caught, as mentioned above, you will receive 2 points on your license, which can have a detrimental effect on your insurance premiums for years to come, especially if you have prior offenses on your record. Additionally, if you have already accumulated a substantial amount of points on your license at the time you are convicted with this 2-point offense, you may face a license suspension.
License suspensions can cause you to lose your job, especially if you generally have to drive a great distance every day and no longer have a means of returning to work. Rather obviously, this is extremely serious, and if you are at risk of receiving a license suspension, you must retain the services of an experienced traffic violation defense attorney.
The Law Office of Carl Spector has been assisting New Jerseyans with their legal matters, both criminal and traffic, for years, which is why we know we have the experience and skill needed to defend you. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, there is no question about it–you need an attorney who will aggressively represent your rights, from start to finish. Do not let unwarranted or undeserved traffic violations affect you for years down the road.
Our firm is here to effectively combat your charges to have them mitigated, or, in some cases, dropped altogether. Why simply plead guilty when there is a better, less costly alternative? Our firm is more than prepared to help you through the legal process going forward–all you have to do is ask. Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector today for strong legal representation you can trust.
