How To Defeat a Tailgating Ticket in Victorville
What exactly is Tailgating?
Tailgating, or closely following the vehicle ahead of you, is a primary cause of rear-end collisions. According to the California Vehicle Code 21703, drivers of motor vehicles in Victorville, CA, must maintain a reasonable and prudent distance from the vehicle in front, considering the vehicle’s speed, traffic conditions, road conditions, and more. In simpler terms, if a driver follows another vehicle too closely beyond what’s considered reasonable, they can face legal consequences under California regulations. The adequate gap between your vehicle and the one in front can be influenced by various factors, including:
- Speed of the vehicles
- Spacing between other vehicles
- Travel direction of the vehicles
- Braking efficiency of the vehicles
- Road surface conditions
- Weather circumstances
- Driver attentiveness
As a general guideline, when driving at higher speeds, it’s essential to maintain a greater distance from the vehicle ahead.
Consequences of Tailgating
Regrettably, impatience or rushing may lead to unintentional tailgating. If you’re pulled over by law enforcement, you could be issued a citation for tailgating in Victorville, CA. This violation is classified as an infraction in compliance with California law, resulting in the following penalties:
- Fines amounting to $238
- Addition of 1 point to your DMV driving record
Although these penalties aren’t as severe as those for misdemeanors or felonies, they can still have adverse effects on your life. The points on your driving record must be reported to your insurance provider, often leading to increased insurance premiums for a few years. Additionally, accumulating a specific number of points within a certain time frame could result in the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges by the DMV. This can be problematic if your daily routine relies on commuting to work or school by car.
Defending Against Tailgating Charges
If you’re cited for tailgating, there are potential defenses you could employ in Victorville, CA, such as:
- Demonstrating that your driving distance was reasonable and prudent, given the specific circumstances
- Arguing that the vehicle in front was driving unlawfully
- Asserting that the law enforcement officer’s perspective of the vehicle spacing was unclear
For any of these defenses, it’s crucial to provide photographic or video evidence to support your claims. Moreover, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional before presenting these defenses on your own. Experienced attorneys possess insights into effective defense strategies, which can potentially lead to reduced charges through negotiations with prosecutors. Furthermore, having legal representation can save you from making a court appearance, as your attorney can represent you.
Naturally, the most effective way to avoid the inconvenience of a citation is to prevent tailgating altogether. Consider these tips for evading tailgating situations:
- Allocate sufficient time for your journey to avoid impulsive or closely-following driving behavior
- Maintain a pace that aligns with the flow of traffic, avoiding excessive speed or sluggish driving
- Concentrate on the road and minimize distractions
- Choose the appropriate lane based on your speed (slower traffic on the right, faster traffic on the left)
Contact Wallin & Klarich Today
If you received a ticket for tailgating, contact Wallin & Klarich as soon as possible to see how we can help. With 40+ years of experience, Wallin & Klarich is your best choice amongst Southern California criminal defense firms. Our attorneys have helped thousands of clients defend against traffic tickets, and we have the skills and resources to help you avoid fines and maintain your driving privileges.
With offices in Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, Victorville, Torrance, West Covina, Los Angeles, and San Diego, you are sure to find an available and convenient attorney near you.
Discover how our team can assist you. Contact us today, toll-free at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (760) 997-7887 for a free consultation with a skilled defense attorney.
