Summer is road trip season. Whether you’re heading to the Jersey Shore, visiting family, exploring Pennsylvania’s beautiful state parks, or taking a cross-country vacation, a little preparation can help you avoid legal headaches along the way.
Unfortunately, many drivers don’t realize how quickly a simple traffic stop, speeding ticket, or distracted driving citation can become much more serious. From Pennsylvania’s strict DUI laws to the state’s point system and new enforcement initiatives, understanding the rules before you travel can save you time, money, and potentially your driver’s license.
Here are some important things every driver should know before heading out this summer.
Traffic Enforcement Is Increasing
Law enforcement agencies across Pennsylvania and throughout the country continue to increase traffic enforcement efforts, particularly during the busy summer travel season.
Drivers most likely to be stopped include:
Many communities also utilize automated speed and red-light cameras, especially in school zones and areas with a history of serious crashes. Remember that automated citations are generally issued to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Put the Phone Away
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of crashes nationwide.
Pennsylvania law prohibits drivers from using an Interactive Wireless Communication Device to send, read, write, or otherwise use text-based communications while operating a vehicle. Drivers can receive a $50 fine, plus court costs and additional fees, simply for holding or using a phone while the vehicle is in motion—even when stopped in traffic or at a red light.
Distracted driving includes much more than texting. Common distractions include:
In the most tragic situations, distracted driving can lead to devastating consequences. A driver convicted of vehicular homicide involving distracted driving may face up to five additional years in prison.
Every Traffic Ticket Can Affect Your License
Many drivers simply pay a traffic ticket without realizing the long-term consequences.
PennDOT maintains a driving record for every licensed Pennsylvania driver. Certain moving violations add points to your driving record, and those points can quickly create problems.
Once your driving record reaches six points, PennDOT begins taking corrective action, including requiring a written examination and additional monitoring.
Too many points can lead to:
Even seemingly minor violations can add up over time.
Before paying a traffic ticket, it’s worth speaking with an experienced traffic attorney who can explain your options and the potential impact on your driving record.
Pennsylvania Is Modernizing Insurance Verification
Pennsylvania is also updating how it verifies automobile insurance.
A new law requires PennDOT to implement an Online Liability Verification (OLV) system that allows law enforcement and PennDOT to instantly confirm whether a vehicle has active insurance coverage.
Rather than relying on mailed paperwork and manual reporting, the new real-time verification system is expected to be fully operational by 2027.
The takeaway is simple: always make sure your insurance remains active and current.
Don’t Believe Every Driving Myth
You’ve probably heard someone say that red cars get pulled over more often.
Interestingly, statistics tell a different story.
According to the National Motorists Association:
Of course, vehicle color doesn’t determine whether you’ll receive a ticket—your driving behavior does.
Speeding Still Tops the List
Some vehicles appear more frequently on speeding ticket statistics than others.
Top 10 Vehicle Models with the Highest Percentage of Speeding Tickets
According to the most recent nationwide analysis available:
- 1
Subaru BRZ – 23.9%
- 2
Hyundai Genesis Coupe – 21.9%
- 3
Volkswagen Golf GTI – 18.8%
- 4
Chevrolet Cruze Limited – 17.9%
- 5
Nissan 350Z – 17.6%
- 6
Subaru WRX – 16.9%
- 7
Scion tC – 15.8%
- 8
Scion FR-S – 15.2%
- 9
Chevrolet Malibu Limited – 14.5%
- 10
Toyota Yaris iA – 14.5%
If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Bucks County, don’t automatically plead guilty by paying the fine. A conviction may add points to your Pennsylvania driving record and increase your insurance costs. Contact Keith J. Williams Law to discuss your options before making a decision.
Traveling to Another State? Know the Marijuana Laws
Many travelers assume that because recreational marijuana is legal in numerous states, driving after using marijuana is also legal.
That assumption can be extremely costly.
Nearly all of Pennsylvania’s neighboring states have legalized recreational marijuana in some form. However, Pennsylvania law still makes it illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana.
In fact, you may be charged with a marijuana-related DUI even if:
If you’re traveling this summer, understand the laws of every state you plan to visit—and remember that crossing state lines doesn’t eliminate Pennsylvania’s DUI laws when you return.
A DUI Doesn’t Stay in One State
Many people believe a DUI received while traveling somehow “stays” in that state.
It doesn’t.
Summer Recreation Doesn’t Mean DUI Laws Take a Vacation
Many people associate DUI laws only with cars and trucks. Pennsylvania law is much broader.
It is illegal to consume alcohol while driving any vehicle, making no distinction between a motor vehicle and a vehicle that you power yourself manually.
You may face DUI charges while operating:
You can even be arrested if your vehicle isn’t moving. Pennsylvania law focuses on whether you were in “actual physical control” of the vehicle—not simply whether it was traveling down the road or the water.
Visiting National Parks?
Many people don’t realize that DUI arrests occurring on federal property are prosecuted under federal law.
Pennsylvania’s national treasures—including Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Valley Forge National Historical Park, and Gettysburg National Military Park—draw millions of visitors every summer.
Know that law enforcement agencies regularly conduct DUI patrols and checkpoints in and around these popular destinations.
Should you be arrested for DUI on federal property, know that federal DUI cases often involve different procedures and significantly harsher consequences than state prosecutions.
If Something Goes Wrong, Keith J. Williams Law Is Ready to Help
Even the safest drivers can find themselves facing unexpected legal problems while traveling.
Whether you’ve received a traffic ticket, accumulated license points, been charged with distracted driving, were involved in an accident, or are facing DUI charges, having experienced legal representation can make a significant difference.
Enjoy Your Summer—Drive Smart
Summer should be filled with family vacations, weekend getaways, and memorable adventures—not court dates or driver’s license problems.
Plan ahead, stay alert, obey the rules of the road, and if you find yourself facing a traffic violation or DUI charge, Keith J. Williams Law is here to help protect your rights and your future.
