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Is Lane Splitting Considered a Traffic Violation in Illinois?

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Joliet, IL traffic violations attorney lane splitting

Motorcyclists define “lane splitting” as passing other vehicles -- whether moving or stationary -- on the left and the right simultaneously. This action puts the motorcycle between two lanes, hence the term. This can be dangerous to the motorcyclist as well as other drivers. Currently, California is the only state that allows motorcyclists to lane split. In Illinois, the action is classified as a traffic violation, and it could lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges if the action causes a serious collision.

Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Illinois?

Motorcycles are often more difficult to see on the road because they are smaller vehicles. If motorcyclists are lane splitting, they run the risk of causing an accident with injuries, because the drivers around them may not notice them and could possibly:

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What Are the Amendments to Illinois Traffic Laws For the New Decade?

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Will County traffic violation defense attorney

Ringing in the new year meant saying “hello” to a brand-new decade, as well as several new laws and amendments to current laws. In total, Illinois welcomed over 250 new laws and tax adjustments starting January 1, 2020. Roadway safety was not immune to the new legislation, and some changes have been made in an effort to reduce the number of accidents and injuries in the state. Illinois increased the penalties for several traffic violations and made a few existing laws more specific to cover different types of traffic-related crimes.

Higher Fines for Breaking Traffic Laws

According to Illinois State Police, a total of 27 squad cars were hit by other vehicles during traffic stops in 2019. In two of these 27 collisions, two troopers were killed. This is why Illinois has increased the penalty for violators of Scott’s Law. This rule states that drivers must move over and give enough room to police vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road with their blue and red emergency lights flashing. The law also applies to other emergency vehicles, and if drivers cannot give at least one lane of room to a vehicle on the side of the road, they should slow down, provide as much space as possible, and proceed with caution.

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What Are the Penalties for Driving Without a Valid License in Illinois?

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Will County traffic ticket defense attorney

It is an exciting right of passage for minors who are 15 years old to begin their journey to earn a driver’s license. All states require drivers to legally obtain a driver’s license or learner's permit before getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. A license is proof that a motorist completed the necessary coursework and tests for driving. It is also a useful tool for identification purposes. In case a driver is stopped by the police, he or she must show his or her license to the officer. However, if a license becomes invalid, or if a person decides to drive without the required identification, he or she can face misdemeanor punishments for a traffic violation. 

Why Is a License So Important?

It is an automatic penalty if anyone is pulled over and cannot produce a driver’s license. Even if a driver has a license, but it is not physically on him or her at the time of the traffic stop, he or she can be fined $500. This charge can be taken to court, and the fine can be dropped if the driver provides the license. In addition, drivers who refuse to produce a license at the time of a traffic stop will also be fined $500 and charged with a petty offense.

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What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Illinois?

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Will County traffic violation defense attorney

Obtaining a driver’s license is a rite of passage. However, there is an additional requirement before a motorist can get behind the wheel. The state of Illinois requires all vehicles to be insured before they are driven on public roadways. Insurance is an important tool that helps protect drivers from having to pay a lot of money for damages if they are involved in a car accident. Some people are turned off by the idea of paying for car insurance, because it can be expensive. However, not having mandatory coverage in Illinois can result in a traffic violation and more costly penalties.

What Is Mandatory Insurance in Illinois?

Insurance policies can be customized for each driver’s needs, but the state of Illinois does require a minimum amount of vehicle liability to be included with each policy:

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Can “Street Racing” Result in Felony Charges in Illinois?

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Plainfield, IL street racing criminal defense attorney

Roadways can generally be a dangerous place, but they become more unsafe when people decide to participate in “street racing.” This act can be defined as two or more cars racing down portions of a public road at speeds that surpass the legal limit. It is common for drivers to participate in street racing as a sport off of public roads. However, those drivers who take the competition to public streets -- where other drivers are not expecting it -- can face severe traffic violations if caught.

What Is Considered Street Racing?

The state of Illinois has a law against drivers who race their vehicles down public roadways. The law states that drivers on Illinois streets and highways are not permitted to:

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