California Traffic Ticket Types

Speeding violations include exceeding posted speed limits, driving too fast for conditions, or exceeding the maximum speed limit on highways. These are the most common traffic violations in California.

Red light camera tickets are issued when a vehicle is photographed entering an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red. These automated enforcement systems capture both photo and video evidence.

Red light violations issued by a police officer occur when you fail to stop at a red signal. These tickets may include officer testimony about the violation.

Failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign is one of the most common traffic violations. The law requires vehicles to stop at the limit line, crosswalk, or intersection.

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited in California. This includes texting, calling, or using apps without hands-free functionality.

Carpool lane violations occur when a vehicle uses an HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lane without the required number of occupants or during restricted hours.

Crossing a center divider or median is illegal and dangerous. This violation typically occurs when drivers make illegal U-turns or cross into opposing traffic lanes.

When emergency vehicles approach with lights and sirens activated, all vehicles must yield the right of way and move to the right edge of the roadway.

Failure to yield at intersections is a common cause of accidents. Drivers must follow right-of-way rules at all intersections, whether controlled or uncontrolled.

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. Pedestrian safety violations carry significant penalties and insurance consequences.

A flashing red signal requires vehicles to stop completely before proceeding, treating it the same as a stop sign. Failure to stop completely is a violation.

Tailgating or following too closely is dangerous and illegal. Drivers must maintain a safe following distance based on speed and road conditions.

Driving too slowly can impede the normal flow of traffic and is a violation. Minimum speed limits must be observed on highways and freeways.

Vehicles must stop when approaching railroad crossings with active signals, gates, or visible trains. These violations carry serious safety and legal consequences.

Many intersections have time-restricted turn prohibitions. Violating these posted restrictions during specified hours is a citable offense.

Stopping on the highway or freeway for non-emergency reasons is illegal and dangerous. Vehicles should only stop when absolutely necessary.

Various other traffic sign violations include failing to obey regulatory, warning, or guide signs posted throughout California roadways.

Crossing double yellow lines to pass is illegal except in specific circumstances. These markings indicate where passing is unsafe.

Turns must be made from the proper lane. Making a turn from the wrong lane is dangerous and can cause accidents.

U-turns in business districts are restricted in many areas. These violations often occur at intersections without proper signage allowing such maneuvers.

Making a U-turn where prohibited by posted signs is illegal. Always check for "No U-Turn" signs before attempting this maneuver.

Lane changes must be made safely with proper signaling. Unsafe lane changes that affect other vehicles are a common cause of accidents.