Connecticut Motor Vehicle Violations on Highways
In Connecticut, as in many states, there are rules and laws around highway access. Violation of these laws could result in fines, points assessed against your driver’s license, and more. Learn about the common highway laws in this section.
Controlled Access Highway Violations
Connecticut’s controlled access highways are designed to maintain traffic flow and safety by restricting entry and exit points to designated ramps and interchanges. Under Connecticut General Statutes § 14-238a, drivers face significant penalties for violating these access restrictions.
Common violations include making U-turns, backing up on entrance or exit ramps, and crossing through median dividers. These actions not only disrupt traffic flow but create serious safety hazards for all highway users. Connecticut law enforcement strictly monitors these behaviors, particularly on busy highways like I-95, I-91, and I-84.
Penalties for controlled access highway violations typically begin with fines ranging from $50-$200 for first offenses. However, if these actions result in accidents or near-misses, drivers may face additional charges like reckless driving, substantially increasing potential penalties and insurance consequences. Courts consider these violations serious because they endanger multiple motorists traveling at high speeds.
Limited Access Highway Illegal Entry
Connecticut distinguishes limited access highways by their controlled entry and exit points. Under state law, entering these highways from unauthorized locations constitutes a specific violation that carries dedicated penalties.
Illegal entry violations often occur when drivers use emergency vehicle crossovers, maintenance access points, or cut through private property to access highways. Connecticut General Statutes prohibit these actions, recognizing the substantial danger they create for high-speed traffic that doesn’t anticipate vehicles merging from unexpected locations.
First-time offenders typically face fines between $100-$200, with penalties increasing for repeat violations. More serious cases, particularly those causing accidents or traffic disruptions, may result in license suspension proceedings. A conviction could also mean points added to your driving record, potentially triggering insurance surcharges lasting several years.
Divided Highway Violations
Connecticut’s divided highways feature physical barriers or clearly marked dividing sections between opposing traffic flows. Violations specific to these roadways include crossing medians, driving against traffic, and making improper turns across dividers.
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 14-237, drivers must observe divided highway restrictions and only cross at designated turning points or intersections. The law takes these violations particularly seriously due to the high risk of head-on collisions they create.
Penalties reflect this severity, with fines starting at $100-$250 for first offenses and potentially escalating to reckless driving charges in egregious cases. These violations often result in significant points on your driving record and may trigger automatic insurance premium increases.
Multi-Lane Highway Violations
Connecticut law establishes specific rules for proper lane usage on multi-lane highways. Statutes including § 14-230 and § 14-233 govern lane discipline, passing procedures, and proper signaling when changing lanes.
Common violations include improper lane changes without signaling, “lane hopping” through multiple lanes in one movement, and failure to keep right except when passing. Connecticut also enforces restrictions on left lane usage, requiring drivers to use it primarily for passing rather than continuous travel when other lanes are available.
Penalties typically start with fines between $50-$200 depending on the specific violation. While these might seem relatively minor compared to other traffic offenses, accumulated violations can substantially impact your driving record and insurance rates.
Your Connecticut Motor Vehicle Violations Lawyer
For all highway violations, legal representation can often negotiate reduced charges, minimize points assessed to your license, or identify procedural issues that might lead to case dismissal. We have handled highway violations before and can assist with your situation. Contact Mr. Speeding Ticket for more information.