Section 21461 of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) requires drivers to obey traffic signs and signals, including temporary ones.
However, even the most attentive driver can make mistakes and end up with a ticket for violating CVC 21461. Here’s what you can be fined for, how it could affect you, and the best ways to handle the charges.
21461a VC: Common Infractions
CVC 21461a includes many different actions and scenarios drivers encounter all the time, making it easier to break the law – even unintentionally.
Here are some examples of actions that could result in a CVC 21461 ticket:
- Running a red light. Entering an intersection after the traffic signal turns red violates CVC 21461. If you’re caught on camera, you may receive a red light camera ticket.
- Ignoring a stop sign. If a driver fails to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, they are violating CVC 21461.
- Disobeying a yield sign. Not yielding to other vehicles or pedestrians as required by a yield sign can result in a CVC 21461 ticket.
- Ignoring a railroad crossing signal. Failure to stop at a railroad crossing when the signal indicates that a train is approaching goes against CVC 21461.
- Making improper lane changes: Merging onto a freeway without yielding, cutting off other drivers, weaving through traffic, and other unsafe lane changes can get you fined.
- Speeding: Exceeding the posted speed limit is a violation of 21461a VC and, in some cases, may lead to reckless driving charges.
- Ignoring flashing warning signals in school zones: Lights, beacons, and other flashing signals in school zones alert drivers that children may be present. Slow down and pay extra attention to your surroundings, or you may end up with a ticket.
Most violations of CVC 21461 are punishable under specific sections of the California Vehicle Code. These sections outline the fines, demerit points, and other legal consequences for disregarding California road signs and signals.
For instance, if someone runs a red light, they may face penalties under CVC 21453. Running a red light violates CVC 21453, which is part of the broader rule in CVC 21461 that requires drivers to follow traffic signals. But tickets are issued under CVC 21453 because it spells out the penalties for running a red.
The Consequences of a 21461 CVC Ticket
Drivers who disobey traffic signs and signals are typically charged with an infraction. Per California law, infractions are punishable by one demerit point and a base fine, plus court and administrative fees.
Read: How Does the DMV Point System Work in California?
Expect more severe penalties if you disregard a traffic sign or signal and cause an accident. In such cases, you may face higher fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
That said, let’s discuss the potential consequences of a 21461 CVC ticket:
Traffic Fines
Wondering, “How much is a ticket for 21461a VC violations?” The answer is $238, plus court costs and other fees that vary based on where you received the ticket.
Demerit Points
Violating CVC 21461 will result in one point on your driver’s license. The point will stay on your record for at least 36 months, depending on what you are charged with.
On the positive side, you can attend traffic school to “mask” that point and maintain a clean driving record. This option is available to California drivers charged with traffic infractions, including those that fall under CVC 21461.
Read: Is Traffic School Worth It?
Traffic school can help you keep a clean driving record, prevent insurance increases, and more!
Higher Insurance Rates
The points on your record are visible to insurance carriers and can result in higher annual premiums for up to three years.
For example, a red light ticket can increase your car insurance rates by around 42% per month. So, if your monthly rate is $183, you’ll pay $260 after receiving the ticket (assuming it goes on your record). That’s an extra $924 per year!
License Suspension
Demerit points add up over time, which may result in license suspension. The California DMV will take away your driving privileges if you accrue:
- 4 points within a year
- 6 points within two years
- 8 points within three years
Let’s suppose you already have three points on your record. If you miss a stop sign and receive a ticket, you’ll get one more point. When that happens, you’ll lose your driver’s license unless you dismiss the ticket or complete traffic school.
21461 CVC Violations: What to Do about Them
There are three ways to deal with a CVC 21461 ticket, depending on your individual circumstances. Here’s what you should know about each option.
Pay It
This option is quick and easy, but the points will go on your record and potentially affect your insurance premiums. Most California courts accept online payments, but you can also pay your fine in person or by mail.
Check your ticket or access this page to find the court in charge of your case. Next, visit its website to see the available payment options.
Fight It
If you believe you were wrongfully cited and have evidence to support it, consider fighting the ticket in court. Follow the steps below:
- Plead not guilty. Check the back of your ticket for instructions on how to plead not guilty, along with the court’s contact details. You’ll need to pay the ticket fine as bail, but if you win your case, the money will be refunded.
- Understand the violation. Make sure you understand the specifics of the offense you’re charged with, including the circumstances surrounding your alleged violation. Review the location and condition of the traffic signal or sign — and any other relevant factors. For example, you cannot be found guilty of disregarding a traffic sign that was illegible or obscured.
- Gather evidence. Collect evidence in your favor, including photos, videos, witness statements, or other documentation. The goal is to show that the violation was unwarranted or that the traffic signal or sign was either malfunctioning or not visible.
- Present your case. During the trial, present your case clearly and concisely, providing any evidence or testimony that supports your position. Be respectful and professional throughout the proceedings.
- Consider a plea deal: If you plead not guilty and fight your ticket in court, you may request a plea deal with the prosecutor, even during the trial. This can be a viable option if your chances of winning are slim.
Failure to appear in court for a traffic ticket can lead to more serious charges. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking in front of a judge, request a trial by written declaration or ask a lawyer to represent you.
How to Request a Trial by Written Declaration
A trial by written declaration (TBWD) is a legal process that allows you to contest a traffic ticket without appearing in court. At its core, it’s a letter you write to the judge to present your version of the events, along with supporting evidence.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Request a trial by written declaration. Fill out Form TR-205 with your name and contact information. Also, provide a detailed and factual explanation of the events leading up to the alleged violation. Include relevant evidence like dashcam footage and photos of the traffic sign or signal.
- Argue your case. Provide a legal argument supporting your case. Explain why the citation was not warranted and how the evidence supports your innocence. Strengthen your argument by referencing the California Vehicle Code or other applicable laws that reinforce your position.
- Pay bail: The court may ask you to pay the fine and fees (“full bail”) associated with your ticket. Do it before the due date on the citation. The court will refund you the bail amount if the verdict is in your favor.
- Submit the TBWD. Sign, date, and submit your written declaration to the court online, by mail, or in person before the deadline specified by the court. The officer who issued your ticket will also submit their own written declaration. Then the judge will review both sides of the case.
- Wait for the verdict. After reaching a verdict, the court will send you a notice of ruling by mail. If found guilty, you can appeal by requesting a trial de novo, which is a new trial in front of a judge.
Note that your case may be dismissed if the police officer doesn’t submit a statement. This is one of the reasons many drivers opt for a trial by written declaration.
Go to Traffic School
If you have a simple CVC 21461, traffic school is often the best – and least expensive – option. Traffic school costs far less than an insurance increase, it’s easy, and it’ll allow you to hide the point associated with your ticket from your insurance carrier.
All you have to do is meet a few traffic school eligibility requirements:
- Hold a non-commercial driver’s license.
- Have not completed traffic school within the past 18 months.
- The ticket was issued for a one-point moving violation.
- The offense didn’t occur while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The court will send you a written notice soon after you receive a ticket for violating CVC 21461. Check this letter to see if you’re eligible for traffic school and how much time you have to finish the course. Alternatively, contact the court to inquire about your eligibility.
If you qualify, sign up for a state-approved course like the one at Best Online Traffic School. By enrolling online, you can finish the course in less than three hours (unlike in-person classes, which take eight hours.) Then, all you have to do is pay the traffic school administrative fee and sign up for a course. Easy!
Read: Is Traffic School Worth It?
Why Choose Best Online Traffic School?
Best Online Traffic School is easy (99% of our students pass the course on their first try), affordable, and loaded with perks that other traffic schools can’t match.
These include:
✅ Study at your own pace from any device.
✅ 24/7 live chat support.
✅ Audio read-along in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
✅ Free, unlimited course retakes.
✅ Free instant electronic certificate.
✅ Pay only after you pass the final test
✅ Same-day submission to the court and DMV
Wondering how much traffic school costs? We charge an all-inclusive flat fee of only $27.99. This rate covers your study materials, course retakes, and everything else — and you only pay after you pass.
Don’t let a CVC 21461 ticket skyrocket your insurance rates. Start traffic school for FREE today.
FAQs about CVC 21461a
Is there anything else you want to know about CVC 21461a? Below are some questions we commonly receive from our students:
What is considered a traffic control signal?
A traffic control signal is any device used to direct the movement of vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians, such as:
• Traffic lights (red, yellow, green)
• Flashing lights (e.g., at intersections)
• Pedestrian signals
• Arrow signals for right/left turns
• Railway signals
When can you disobey a traffic control signal?
Per California law, drivers can disobey traffic control signals only in specific situations:
• When directed by a police officer.
• When official signage redirects traffic against the signal (e.g., in construction zones).
• When a traffic light is malfunctioning (in such cases, drivers must treat the intersection as a four-way stop).
You may also disobey traffic signals to avoid an immediate hazard like a reckless driver or a falling tree. However, if you’re pulled over, you’ll need to explain your actions.
Note that emergency vehicles may disregard traffic control signals when responding to emergencies, but only if it’s safe to do so.
Is 21461a a moving violation?
Yes, any offenses committed under section 21461a VC are considered moving violations. Therefore, they can result in demerit points and affect your driving record.