Disregarding a Traffic Control Device

Receiving a citation for disregarding a traffic control device is one of the most common citations Illinois drivers receive while on the road. It is considered a moving violation, so this ticket may result in points against your driver’s license if you are convicted, potentially contributing to a driver’s license suspension. Additionally, moving violation convictions can also lead to higher insurance premiums. However, it is punishable by a fine only and is not a misdemeanor traffic offense. 

What is a Traffic Control Device?

 A traffic control device can be anything from a traffic control light to a stop sign—essentially, anything that provides drivers with roadway instructions, such as when to stop or yield. The purpose of traffic control devices is to guide traffic and to maintain order on the road for safety purposes. 

Disregarding a traffic control device ticket can be issued after an accident or simply because a driver allegedly ran a red light. A driver will be issued a citation for disobeying a traffic control device when the driver does not follow the instructions of the device, such as stopping on red or failing to yield. In general, the law requires every driver to obey every traffic control device that is properly placed. The only exceptions to this rule are when you are a police officer or driving an emergency vehicle (such as an ambulance or police vehicle) under certain conditions. In some instances, a traffic control device, like a traffic light, may not be functioning or illuminated. In these cases, drivers are required to treat the intersection as a stop sign and come to a complete stop before proceeding, ensuring the way is clear and it is safe to move forward. 

Trying to Avoid Traffic Control Devices 

Sometimes, a driver might attempt to avoid a traffic control device by leaving the road and entering private property to get back onto the road, thereby bypassing traffic lights or stop signs. For example, cutting through a gas station to get back onto the road sooner to avoid a traffic light. This kind of maneuver is illegal, and an officer can issue a ticket for disregarding a traffic control device if they observe a driver engaging in such behavior. 

Possible Defenses 

There may be several possible defenses against a citation for disregarding a traffic control device. For instance, one defense could be that the traffic control device was not properly placed and was difficult to see. If the view of the traffic control device was obstructed or not visible, a driver cannot be faulted and may contest the citation in court. An example of such a defense might be a driver unable to see a yield sign because overgrown trees or bushes obstructed the sign. Similarly, if a large vehicle, such as a truck or bus, was parked in a way that blocked the view of a stop sign, this could also serve as a valid defense. If the court finds this argument persuasive, the disregarding a traffic control device ticket could be dismissed, and no points would be added to the driver’s license.