One of the most overlooked traffic laws in California is Vehicle Code (VC) 22108, which requires drivers to signal continuously for at least 100 feet before making a turn or lane change. In Monterey County, this violation often leads to citations, especially in busy areas like Salinas or along heavily traveled highways such as U.S. Route 101.
What Does VC 22108 Require?
VC 22108 mandates that drivers signal their intention to turn or change lanes for at least 100 feet before doing so. This rule ensures other drivers and pedestrians are aware of your movements, promoting safety on the road. A common misunderstanding is that a brief flick of the turn signal is sufficient—under VC 22108, that’s not the case.
Monterey County Enforcement of VC 22108
In Monterey County, law enforcement officers actively monitor for VC 22108 violations. Busy urban intersections in cities like Salinas and Monterey are frequent hotspots for citations. Additionally, officers patrolling highways often cite drivers for failing to signal properly before lane changes, especially during peak traffic hours.
Some drivers are caught off guard when cited for a Monterey County signal violation because they believe their brief signal was enough. However, officers often rely on subjective observations, such as whether the signal lasted for the required 100 feet or was activated too late to provide adequate warning.
Penalties for Violating VC 22108
A Monterey County signal violation can lead to:
- Fines: The base fine is relatively low, but when court fees and surcharges are added, the total can exceed $200.
- Points on Your License: A VC 22108 violation results in one point on your driving record, potentially increasing your insurance premiums.
- Traffic School: You may be eligible to attend traffic school to keep the point off your record.
Defending Against a VC 22108 Ticket
Contesting a Monterey County signal violation may seem daunting, but an experienced attorney can make a difference. Key defenses might include:
- Proving that road conditions or surrounding traffic made it unsafe to signal for the full 100 feet.
- Challenging the officer’s subjective judgment about the length of your signal.
- Examining whether the officer had a clear view of your actions during the alleged violation.
Even if the evidence against you seems strong, an attorney can often negotiate reduced penalties or ensure your eligibility for traffic school.
Call to Action
Don’t let a Monterey County signal violation tarnish your driving record. At Chris Cain Law, we specialize in fighting traffic tickets, including VC 22108 citations. Call us at (831) 296-0060 today for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your record and keep your insurance rates low.