Drivers can only cross parallel lines on a roadway in California in specific circumstances. Drivers who cross the lines outside of these approved circumstances can get a ticket under California Vehicle Code Section 21460: Crossing Double Yellow Lines.
Note that, despite the name of this section of the legal code, this law also applies to double white lines. Drivers given a ticket for crossing double yellow (or white) lines can face fines and a point on their driver’s license.
You can learn more about this part of the California vehicle code with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer.
What Actions Lead to a VC 21460 Ticket?
The police may hand out VC 21460 tickets to any driver they accuse of driving to the left of double parallel lines, including both white and yellow lines. Drivers are also prohibited from crossing double parallel lines (with one line broken) unless they’re passing another vehicle.
Are There Exceptions to VC 21460 Rules?
California allows drivers to cross double parallel lines in a few situations, providing exceptions to the rules stated in VC 21460. You may cross double parallel lines (of white or yellow) if you are:
- Making a left turn from an intersection
- Turning from a private road or driveway
- Performing a U-turn
Drivers performing one of these approved maneuvers should not get a ticket for crossing double yellow lines. However, drivers must only perform these maneuvers if they have yielded to oncoming traffic and assessed the situation to ensure they have enough space.
Can You Face Tickets for Multiple Traffic Violations?
The police may issue tickets for multiple traffic violations at the same time.
For example, in some circumstances, drivers accused of crossing double lines may also get a ticket for CA Vehicle Code § 23103 Reckless Driving or CA Vehicle Code 23152 (a) – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.
These offenses can have more severe consequences than a VC 21460 ticket, so it’s essential to contact a criminal defense law firm quickly if you are arrested.
What Are the Penalties for Crossing Double Yellow Lines?
A ticket for California Vehicle Code Section 21460: Crossing Double Yellow Lines can result in a fine of several hundred dollars and a point on your driver’s license.
Drivers who accumulate too many points on their license in a set period can have their driving privileges suspended.
Additionally, getting a point on your license will likely increase your insurance rates. Therefore, it’s essential to take these tickets seriously.
Can You Just Wait for a VC 21460 Ticket to Go Away?
Traffic tickets do not go away on their own in California. Instead, drivers who ignore a ticket from a police officer may face additional legal charges under CA Vehicle Code 40508a – Failure to Appear for a Traffic Ticket.
If you do not address a traffic ticket, you could face jail time and higher fines. A criminal defense law firm can help you determine the steps you need to take.
What Defenses Work for VC 21460 Tickets?
A lawyer may explore several defenses to help with a California Vehicle Code Section 21460: Crossing Double Yellow Lines ticket. In some cases, attorneys work to show that:
- You legally crossed double yellow lines to make a turn
- You crossed double yellow lines due to an emergency situation
- Someone falsely accused you of crossing double yellow lines
The specific defense used by an attorney will depend on your circumstances. Contacting a lawyer right away will allow them to assess your situation and provide personalized advice about what you should do after getting a ticket.
In some situations, attorneys can get the ticket dropped so you don’t have to pay a fine or get a point on your license. Taking this step can allow you to move forward with your life and get back your peace of mind.
What if You Face DUI Charges with a VC 21460 Ticket?
The police may want to test your blood alcohol content (BAC) after stopping you for allegedly crossing double yellow lines. In some cases, this can result in a DUI charge along with a VC 21460 ticket.
In this situation, you can count on a lawyer to help with both accusations. In some cases, lawyers can handle these DUI charges by arguing that the police stopped you without reasonable cause or that they violated your rights.
An attorney can also dispute the results of BAC tests and go over relevant DUI defenses.
Get Help with a Ticket for Crossing Double Yellow Lines
You can get legal help handling a California Vehicle Code Section 21460: Crossing Double Yellow Lines ticket, even if it comes with DUI accusations.
Our team can help you find a Los Angeles DUI lawyer to help with all your legal needs when you call or complete our online contact form.