7 Must-Know North Carolina Traffic Laws

In order to ensure the safety of others, every driver should have a confident understanding of traffic laws in the state they are driving. The old adage remains true: Ignorance of the law is not an excuse to break it. Cotton Law Firm, located in Fayetteville, NC, has compiled 7 of the state’s traffic laws that you may not know but definitely should!

If you have questions about the traffic laws in North Carolina or need legal assistance regarding a traffic-related charge, contact the experts at Cotton Law Firm today!

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that distracted driving accounted for 27% of all crashes in 2015. With such a large number of incidents, it is no surprise that activities like texting or emailing while driving is illegal for drivers of any age. 

Fender Bender Law

If you get into a minor accident in North Carolina–meaning you have not suffered any injuries and your car suffered only minor damage and is still able to be driven–you are required to pull your car over to the shoulder or side of the road. Failure to comply could result in a fine and court fees.

Slow Driving

Of course, speeding can get you a ticket. In North Carolina, however, if you drive slow enough to impede the flow of traffic or endanger others who are complying with the posted speed limit can also get you into trouble, especially if you are in the left lane.

Quick Clearance

Somewhat related to the fender bender and highway parking laws, the quick clearance law allows for police or other first responders to clear vehicles from the road in emergency and other necessary situations, such as cars parked in front of hydrants, over crosswalks or in other dangerous spots.

Move Over Law

The Move Over Law requires motorists to slow down and move over when passing an emergency vehicle with their flashing lights on, especially in cases where an officer is making a traffic stop on the side of the road. This law is incredibly important, as it drastically increases the safety of officers during their stops. Failure to comply with this law will result in a $250 fine.

Get Legal Assistance With A Traffic Violation

The legal system is full of complexities. Attaining the help of a traffic attorney can ensure that all of your bases are covered and can lead to lower charges, a fair sentence, and in some cases, can even get your charges dropped completely. Don’t try to navigate through the legal system alone. Get the help you need by calling one of our attorneys at Cotton Law Firm to schedule a consultation if you have received a traffic violation in or around the Fayetteville area.