Traffic Enforcement Penalties
- 1/28If you run a red light at a traffic signal
Illinois enforces strict red light compliance. Even without traffic, a violation leads to penalties and points.
When an officer directs traffic against a signal
Law enforcement overrides signals. Disobeying their command is a violation and may result in a citation.
While ignoring a Do Not Enter sign on one way street
Entering a one way the wrong way is dangerous. Expect fines, points, and possible license suspension on repeat.
If you are stopped without proof of insurance
Driving without proof of insurance in Illinois results in citations and possible towing of the vehicle.
When pulled over and refusing to provide license
Refusing lawful requests is obstruction. Officers may arrest and issue charges for non compliance.
While speeding in a posted school zone
Illinois enforces higher penalties for school zone violations, especially when children are present.
If your license is suspended but you still drive
Driving with a suspended license is a criminal violation in Illinois and results in jail time and longer suspension.
At a checkpoint, you refuse to take a breath test
Under implied consent law, refusal results in automatic suspension, even if not convicted of DUI.
While driving 25 mph over the posted limit
Excessive speeding over 25 mph can lead to reckless driving charges, higher points, and court appearances.
When failing to stop at a flashing red signal
Flashing red means a full stop. Rolling through is treated the same as running a stop sign.
If you disobey a temporary construction sign
Construction signage is enforceable. Violating it endangers workers and leads to increased fines.
While texting at a green light in traffic
Handheld use while driving is illegal in Illinois. Even at lights, distraction citations may be issued.
When ignoring a yield sign and causing near collision
Drivers must slow or stop at yield signs. Failing to do so can result in fines and insurance penalties.
At a stop sign with no other cars present
A complete stop is required regardless of traffic presence. Rolling stops are enforced and ticketed.
If you accumulate 7 or more demerit points
The Illinois MVD will suspend your license once point thresholds are reached due to repeated violations.
While failing to yield to an emergency vehicle
Drivers must pull over and stop. Failing to yield puts lives at risk and results in high fines and points.
If you are found street racing on city roads
Street racing is a criminal traffic offense in Illinois. It leads to arrest, license suspension, and court action.
When stopped for DUI with BAC of 0.10%
The legal BAC limit is 0.08%. Anything over results in DUI charges, fines, and license suspension.
Turning left at a signal where left turn is prohibited
Signs banning turns must be obeyed. Violating these leads to citations, especially in intersections.
While tailgating at high speeds on 40mph
Following too closely is unsafe, especially at freeway speeds. It can trigger aggressive driving penalties.
When found driving with expired plates
Driving with expired registration results in tickets and your vehicle may be temporarily impounded.
If you are found passing a stopped school bus
Passing a bus with red lights flashing is a serious offense. Your license may be suspended on repeat violation.
When involved in a crash and you flee the scene
Leaving without reporting is a criminal traffic violation. It leads to arrest and license revocation.
If you ignore flashing yellow pedestrian signs
Pedestrian signs must be obeyed. Failing to slow or yield puts people at risk and results in fines.
While parked in a handicap space without permit
Unauthorized parking in reserved spots is strictly enforced. You will face large fines and potential towing.
If a second DUI is committed within 5 years
Repeat DUI leads to harsher sentencing including jail, alcohol education, and multi year license suspension.
When you drive away from a traffic stop without permission
Leaving during a lawful stop is considered fleeing. It triggers serious charges and possible arrest.
At night, you drive without headlights
Headlights must be on from dusk to dawn. Driving without them reduces visibility and is ticketable.