Making an Illegal or Improper Turn is usually a split-second decision and is considered a minor offense. However, while it is a prepayable offense, it is a moving violation. As a result, a conviction will appear on your driving record and may impact insurance rates. It is a 3-point offense and will remain on your driving record for 3 years. There are steps you can take to avoid a loss of points and insurance rate increases and hiring an attorney is the first step. We regularly handle these cases in the Fairfax County General District Court, Fairfax City General District Court, Town of Vienna Court, and Town of Herndon Court. Give us a call at 703-273-4100 or use the contact form and we can discuss your available options. Many of these cases can be lowered to something better.
Illegal U-Turns in Fairfax County
It is illegal to make a U-Turn unless it is at an intersection. If the area you plan to make the U-Turn is not an intersection then it would violate §46.2-845. In addition, even there is an intersection, the statute articulates that a U-Turn cannot be made in areas where you cannot be seen by others within 500 feet (such as at the crest of a hill or curve). Of course, if it is an intersection, pay close attention for that No U-Turn sign. In most cases in Fairfax County we can get a no U-Turn reduced to a no-point offense with proper preparation.
Other Illegal Turns in Fairfax County
In these cases, many people are either accidentally in a turn lane but meaning to go straight or are in a turn lane but do not stay in that lane as they make their turn (called a "wide turn"). §46.2-846 governs this section and it is worth a read. Essentially, whichever lane you're in, the law requires you to drive within that lane and keep your vehicle to the right of the lane.
How an Attorney can Help
Hiring a traffic ticket lawyer can help you avoid a loss of points and insurance rate increases by either working towards a reduction or dismissal of the charge. Many times, the improper turn charge can reduced to a no-point non-moving violation by negotiation. Give us a call or use the contact form to contact us and we would be happy to discuss your case and give you a good idea of what to expect.
In most illegal turn cases in Fairfax County, we can appear on your behalf so you don't have to miss work or other obligations. We will stay in touch with you during the court hearing and let you know how things look and, if necessary, will continue the hearing so you can be present if it is decided that is necessary. However, in most cases, we can simply handle the case for you and you will not need to appear in court.