Unlawful Traverse of a Pattern California Vehicle Code § 2818
Temporary rerouting of traffic can be a major pain for many California drivers
Not only are they inconvenient, but they can be downright confusing. Traveling Between barricades, flares, electronic beacons, and the ever popular orange traffic cones it can be hard to figure out the intended path.
If you simply follow the cars in front of you, maneuvering around these obstacles is usually a piece of cake. However, if the drivers in front of you have no idea where they’re going, or if they misinterpret the meaning of the obstacles, or if you’re the lead driver and can’t figure it out, there could be an issue.
Now, you need to remember that there are actually reasons traffic is temporarily rerouted and it usually has to do with some type of roadway emergency or road construction project.
It really doesn’t matter what reason why a reroute is implemented for, you are required to follow the new traffic flow design regardless of pathway or length.
What is CVC 2818?
California Vehicle Code 2818 states:
“it is unlawful to traverse an electronic beacon pattern, a flare pattern, cone pattern, or combination of electric beacon, flare, or cone patterns, provided for the regulation of traffic, or provided in a situation where public safety personnel are engaged in traffic control or emergency scene management.”
You might find this surprising, but this also covers things like traffic rerouting for festivals and concerts, or any other kind of event where out of the ordinary traffic routing takes place.
If you see any type of object, whether it be lights, signs, cones or barricades, no matter where they are, you need to follow the route which is indicated. If these guidelines are not followed you could easily find yourself handing over your license, registration and proof of insurance to someone driving a car with flashing lights on its roof.
What are the Consequences?
If you are cited for CVC 2818, you run the risk of a $238 fine and a point being added to your driving record.
There is a lot involved with these citations, and our team is here to assist. Learn more about your options with the ticket with a free ticket review.