A common situation when we’re stuck on traffic is honking the horn. It isn’t like suddenly in a traffic jam in the middle of the cars, all the vehicle congestion will disappear and we’ll start to move forward. Or is common to sound it when you’re pick someone up or a car is performing an incorrect movement, it gets us upset. But, can you get a ticket for honking in traffic jams?
Maybe you will be surprised or maybe you already know, but the misusing of the car horn will cost you a ticket… In The United States this offense is part of the traffic laws to regulate the use of car horns in traffic jams or congested situations. These laws may vary according to local jurisdictions.
How much is the fine for honking in a traffic jam?
The fine to pay for honking a car horn in a traffic jam may be different according to a particular state or city. In some places, fines may range from 50 to 200 USD or more, depending on the situation and regulations of the place. The use of car horns should be used to alert drivers and pedestrians of your presence or to warn of imminent danger.
Some common regulations are mentioned below:
- Do not honk your horn at a blind person.
- Car horns should not be used excessively or unnecessarily in traffic jams.
- The use of the horn is prohibited near hospitals, schools, or residential areas during late hours.
On the other hand, the Spanish Traffic Law, article 110 establishes that the “acoustic signals that are not strident, and their unmotivated or exaggerated use is prohibited”. (Spanish Traffic Law, n.d.). We must accept the fact that honking won’t solve traffic congestion, and noise only produces irritation due very high volume, generating a noise pollution, stress and anger.
Tips to avoid honking and a ticket…
- Avoid honking in a traffic jam.
- Do you really need to sound the horn? If the answer is yes, just do it for a very short time and to prevent an accident.
- Keep calm and patience.
- Don’t be nervous neither angry with other drivers.
- If you need to get other driver’s attention, use indicator lamps, gestures or movements with your hand (always with respect).
- Remember that the use of the horn can be dangerous, distracting other drivers and causing accidents.
Now, you already know the consequences, we hope you understand and apply our tips to avoid a ticket and cause a discomfort. Remember that honking won’t help you to get out of the traffic jam faster.
