Is It Illegal to Cut Through a Parking Lot in Texas?
When you’re in a hurry in Texas traffic, you’re probably looking for ways to speed up your trip while obeying the law. Although it may seem like a good idea when you’re in a rush, is it illegal to cut through a parking lot in Texas?
A Texas car accident lawyer from Texas Law Dog describes the laws that apply to whether you can drive through a parking lot, what legal trouble you could face for doing so, and this action might be used against you to show negligence if you harm someone in an accident in a parking lot.
Cutting Through a Parking Lot in Texas Can Carry Consequences
Along with paying a fine or potentially going to jail, a traffic violation can cause more problems. If you already have multiple offenses on your record, you could lose your driver’s license. Also, your insurance company might decide to increase your premiums or refuse to insure you any longer.
One of the most severe risks of driving through a parking lot is that of causing injury to others. You may hit a pedestrian or cause an accident with another vehicle. People hurt by someone recklessly driving through a parking lot may choose to work with a Texas personal injury lawyer to hold you accountable for their injuries.
Texas Law Usually Forbids Cutting Through a Parking Lot
Under Texas Transportation Code §545.423, it is illegal to drive through a parking lot with the intent of avoiding traffic. If you don’t stop or park, you could be subject to a fine between $25 and $299 for a first offense. Repeat offenders are subject to a fine between $100 and $200.
Cutting through a parking lot is a misdemeanor traffic offense. However, while it is illegal to drive through a parking lot to avoid a traffic light, you may have an excuse that helps you avoid a charge. If you were trying to avoid an accident or are going to a hospital emergency room, you can provide proof of these circumstances to the officer or in traffic court.
Depending on how severe your actions were, a police officer may give you a ticket, or they might arrest you. If you broke other laws or were driving under the influence of alcohol, you could end up behind bars for multiple violations. This law also applies to driving through private property to avoid traffic signals, even if the area isn’t a parking area.
You Have Options if You’re Hurt by Someone Illegally Driving Through a Parking Lot
Most folks in parking lots are concentrating on where they are going, even if they watch out for drivers. People expect cars and trucks to slow down, stop, and obey traffic laws, so they can be taken surprise by someone who does not know it is illegal to cut through a parking lot in Texas. These individuals can suffer serious injuries from someone who is in too big of a rush.
When that happens, victims can turn to the Texas Law Dog and our group of experienced, trained, and diligent personal injury attorneys. We explain the Texas car accident claim process to you so you understand your options and how to act on them. We work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve from someone who broke the law and hurt you.
You must act quickly to build your case by collecting evidence, identifying the at-fault parties, and demonstrating their negligence. Under Chapter 16 of the Civil Code and Remedies, Texas only allows you two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit against those responsible. Our attorneys will also help you negotiate with insurance companies while developing your case for court if necessary.
Driving Illegally Through a Parking Lot Can Harm Your Defense in a Car Accident Claim
If you cut through a parking lot to avoid a traffic light or sign and hurt someone in an accident, you’ll probably deal with more than just a misdemeanor fine. You could wind up paying an insurance claim for their injuries or facing a personal injury lawsuit. Successful lawsuits depend on robust evidence of negligence, and illegally cutting through a parking lot can support that claim.
If your insurance company has to pay a claim resulting from your bad driving behavior, they’re likely to increase your premiums. If the plaintiff takes you to court, it will work against you if they can show evidence of how you broke the law.
Your ticket, the police officer’s statement, witness testimony, and parking lot surveillance video can demonstrate negligence, so you pay for all the plaintiff’s damages.
Don’t Take Chances with the Law in Texas
Is it illegal to cut through a parking lot? The short answer is yes. Unless you have proof of an emergency, you will likely have to pay heavy fines if you are arrested and ticketed. Instead of taking that chance, familiarize yourself with the law and always follow it.
If you’ve been hurt by someone who broke the law by driving illegally through a parking lot or caused a car accident anywhere in the Lone Star State, contact the Texas Law Dog to discuss your case during a free initial consultation.
We have the skills, background, and fierce approach to craft a strong case on your behalf and hold wrongdoers accountable. Schedule a meeting with a Texas car accident lawyer today.