What is a Title 75 Violation in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes governs the rules of the road and traffic laws. Within this title, there are various sections that outline specific traffic violations, penalties, and procedures. A Title 75 violation is any infraction of the traffic laws and regulations outlined in this title. In this article, we will explore what constitutes a Title 75 violation, the different types of violations, and the consequences of being convicted.
What Constitutes a Title 75 Violation?
A Title 75 violation can take many forms, including:
- Moving violations: These are infractions that occur while a vehicle is in motion, such as speeding, running a red light, or failing to stop at a stop sign.
- Non-moving violations: These are infractions that occur when a vehicle is not in motion, such as parking in a no-parking zone, having an expired registration, or having an invalid license plate.
- Vehicle equipment violations: These are infractions related to the condition or equipment of a vehicle, such as having a broken taillight, having an expired inspection sticker, or having a vehicle that does not meet safety standards.
Types of Title 75 Violations
There are several types of Title 75 violations, including:
- Summary offenses: These are minor infractions that are punishable by a fine only. Examples include:
- Failing to stop at a stop sign
- Failing to yield at an intersection
- Parking in a no-parking zone
- Misdemeanors: These are more serious infractions that are punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Examples include:
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer
- Felonies: These are the most serious infractions and are punishable by imprisonment. Examples include:
- Homicide by vehicle
- Manslaughter by vehicle
- Aggravated assault by vehicle
Consequences of a Title 75 Violation
The consequences of a Title 75 violation depend on the specific violation and the individual’s driving record. Some possible consequences include:
- Fines: Fines can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the violation.
- License suspension: A driver’s license can be suspended or revoked for a period of time or permanently, depending on the severity of the violation and the individual’s driving record.
- Points: A driver can receive points on their license for certain violations, which can lead to increased insurance rates, license suspension, or even license revocation.
- Jail time: In some cases, a Title 75 violation can result in jail time, depending on the severity of the violation and the individual’s criminal history.
Defending Against a Title 75 Violation
If you have been charged with a Title 75 violation, it is important to take the charges seriously and defend yourself aggressively. Here are some ways to defend against a Title 75 violation:
- Challenging the evidence: If the evidence against you is weak or unreliable, you may be able to challenge it and have the charges dismissed.
- Claiming ignorance or mistake: If you were unaware of the traffic laws or made a genuine mistake, you may be able to argue that you did not intend to commit the violation.
- Showing mitigating circumstances: If you were driving under emergency circumstances or were forced to commit the violation due to circumstances beyond your control, you may be able to argue that the violation was justified.
Table: Title 75 Violations and Their Consequences
| Violation | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Summary Offense (e.g. parking in a no-parking zone) | Fine only (up to $200) |
| Misdemeanor (e.g. reckless driving) | Fine (up to $2,500) and/or imprisonment (up to 5 years) |
| Felony (e.g. homicide by vehicle) | Imprisonment (up to 20 years) |
| License Suspension | Up to 12 months (depending on the violation) |
Conclusion
A Title 75 violation in Pennsylvania is any infraction of the traffic laws and regulations outlined in Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. These violations can range from minor summary offenses to serious felonies, and the consequences of being convicted can be severe. If you have been charged with a Title 75 violation, it is important to take the charges seriously and defend yourself aggressively. By understanding the types of Title 75 violations, the consequences of being convicted, and the ways to defend against a Title 75 violation, you can protect your rights and avoid the penalties associated with a Title 75 violation.
