Criminal Defense Lawyers

Vehicle Code § 21651(b) VC – Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

Vehicle Code § 21651(b) VC – Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road

Have you recently been cited for driving on the wrong side of the road in California? If so, you’re likely feeling stressed and uncertain about what this means for your driving record and future. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how overwhelming traffic violations can be. With our experienced attorneys on your side, we can help you navigate this charge and work towards the best possible outcome.

What Exactly is Vehicle Code § 21651(b) VC?

Vehicle Code § 21651(b) VC makes it illegal to drive on the wrong side of a divided highway in California. Specifically, this law states:”It is unlawful to drive any vehicle upon a highway, except to the right of an intermittent barrier or a dividing section which separates two or more opposing lanes of traffic.”In simpler terms, this means you cannot drive on the left side of the road if there is a physical barrier or marked dividing section separating opposing lanes of traffic. This law aims to prevent head-on collisions and maintain the orderly flow of traffic on divided roads.Some key points to understand about VC 21651(b):

• It applies to divided highways with physical barriers or marked dividing sections
• Driving to the left of the divider is prohibited, even briefly
• Exceptions exist for authorized emergency vehicles and highway workers
• Violations can result in fines, points on your license, and potential misdemeanor charges

If you’ve been cited under this code section, don’t panic. Our experienced traffic attorneys at Spodek Law Group can review the details of your case and advise you on the best path forward. We have extensive experience defending against VC 21651(b) charges and other traffic violations throughout California.

Penalties for Violating VC 21651(b)

The consequences for driving on the wrong side of a divided highway can be quite serious in California. Potential penalties include:

As you can see, even a simple traffic violation like this can have major ramifications. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney in your corner. At Spodek Law Group, we’ll fight to minimize the impact on your driving record and finances.

Common Defenses Against VC 21651(b) Charges

While driving on the wrong side of the road is a serious offense, there are several potential defenses we can explore:

1. Lack of proper signage or road markings: If the dividing line or barrier was not clearly marked, we may be able to argue you were unaware you had crossed into oncoming lanes.
2. Emergency situation: If you had to swerve to avoid an accident or obstruction, this could justify briefly crossing the divider.
3. Authorized vehicle exception: Emergency vehicles and highway workers have exemptions to this law in certain situations.
4. Faulty evidence: We can scrutinize any photo or video evidence to look for inconsistencies or errors.
5. Mistake of fact: If you genuinely believed you were allowed to drive in that lane, this could be a valid defense.

Our skilled attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your citation to build the strongest possible defense. We understand the nuances of California traffic law and how to effectively challenge these charges.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

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2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Why Choose Spodek Law Group for Your VC 21651(b) Case?

When you’re facing a traffic violation that could impact your driving privileges and insurance rates, you need an experienced legal team on your side. Here’s why Spodek Law Group is the right choice:

• Extensive experience: We’ve successfully defended countless clients against VC 21651(b) charges and other traffic violations.
• Personalized approach: We take the time to understand the unique details of your case and tailor our strategy accordingly.
• Aggressive advocacy: We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
• Proven results: Our track record speaks for itself – we have a history of getting charges reduced or dismissed for our clients.
• Comprehensive knowledge: We stay up-to-date on all changes to California traffic laws to provide you with the most current and effective defense.

Don’t let a simple traffic mistake derail your life. Contact Spodek Law Group today at 212-300-5196 for a free consultation on your VC 21651(b) case. We’re here to guide you through this process and fight for your rights every step of the way.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

If you’ve been cited for driving on the wrong side of a divided highway, time is of the essence. The sooner you reach out to an experienced attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Here’s why:

1. Evidence preservation: Critical evidence like dashcam footage or witness statements can disappear quickly. We’ll work fast to gather and preserve any evidence that could help your case.
2. Avoiding default judgments: If you miss your court date or fail to respond to the citation, you could face additional penalties. We’ll ensure all deadlines are met.
3. Strategic planning: The more time we have to prepare your defense, the stronger it will be. Early intervention allows us to explore all possible avenues for challenging the charge.
4. Peace of mind: The stress of a pending traffic violation can be overwhelming. The sooner you have us on your side, the sooner you can relax knowing your case is in good hands.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Spodek Law Group today to start building your defense against VC 21651(b) charges.

Understanding the Long-Term Consequences

While a citation for driving on the wrong side of the road may seem like a minor issue, it can have far-reaching consequences if not handled properly. Consider the following potential long-term impacts:

Insurance Rate Increases

A conviction for violating VC 21651(b) can lead to a significant spike in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies view this offense as a sign of risky driving behavior, which could result in rate increases lasting for years.

Employment Implications

For those whose jobs involve driving, a violation of this nature could jeopardize your employment. Many employers conduct regular checks of driving records, and a VC 21651(b) conviction could raise red flags.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Consequences

If you hold a CDL, the stakes are even higher. A conviction could lead to license suspension or even disqualification, potentially ending your career as a professional driver.

Repeat Offender Risks

If you’ve had previous traffic violations, adding another to your record could push you into “negligent operator” territory. This could result in license suspension or revocation.At Spodek Law Group, we understand these long-term risks and fight aggressively to protect your future. We’ll work tirelessly to avoid a conviction and minimize any potential consequences.

The Legal Process for VC 21651(b) Cases

Navigating the legal system can be confusing and intimidating, especially if this is your first traffic violation. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

1. Citation Issued: You’ll receive a ticket at the time of the alleged violation.
2. Arraignment: This is your first court appearance where you’ll enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
3. Pre-Trial Conference: If you plead not guilty, this is where we’ll negotiate with the prosecutor and potentially resolve the case.
4. Trial: If a resolution isn’t reached, your case will go to trial where evidence is presented and a judge makes a ruling.
5. Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will determine your penalties.

Throughout this process, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial. At Spodek Law Group, we’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your options and advocating fiercely for your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions About VC 21651(b)

As we’ve worked with numerous clients facing VC 21651(b) charges, we’ve encountered many common questions. Here are some of the most frequent:Q: Can I just pay the fine and be done with it?A: While this is an option, it’s not always the best one. Paying the fine is an admission of guilt and will result in points on your license and potential insurance increases. We often recommend fighting the charge to avoid these consequences.Q: Will this affect my commercial driver’s license?A: Yes, a conviction for VC 21651(b) can have serious implications for CDL holders. It’s crucial to fight these charges to protect your professional driving career.Q: Can this charge be reduced to a less serious offense?A: In many cases, yes. We often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges to less severe violations that carry fewer points and lower fines.Q: What if I accidentally crossed the divider to avoid an accident?A: This could be a valid defense. If you had to swerve to avoid a collision or obstacle, we may be able to argue that your actions were necessary for safety reasons.Q: How long will this stay on my driving record?A: In California, most traffic violations remain on your record for 3 years. However, the impact on your insurance rates can last even longer.Remember, every case is unique. For personalized answers to your specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Spodek Law Group.

Why You Shouldn’t Face VC 21651(b) Charges Alone

It might be tempting to handle a traffic violation on your own, but when it comes to charges as serious as driving on the wrong side of a divided highway, professional legal representation is crucial. Here’s why:

1. Complex Legal System: Traffic law can be surprisingly complex. What seems like a straightforward violation often has nuances that only an experienced attorney will recognize.
2. Negotiation Skills: Our attorneys have established relationships with local prosecutors and know how to negotiate effectively for reduced charges or dismissals.
3. Understanding of Consequences: We can fully explain the potential short-term and long-term consequences of a conviction, helping you make informed decisions about your case.
4. Time and Stress Savings: Navigating the court system is time-consuming and stressful. We handle all the legwork, allowing you to focus on your daily life.
5. Better Outcomes: Statistically, those represented by attorneys tend to see better outcomes in traffic cases than those who represent themselves.

At Spodek Law Group, we’re not just lawyers – we’re your advocates, fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and your future. Don’t face these charges alone. Let us put our experience and expertise to work for you.

Contact Spodek Law Group Today

If you’re facing charges under Vehicle Code § 21651(b) VC for driving on the wrong side of a divided highway, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. At Spodek Law Group, we’re ready to start building your defense immediately.Our team of experienced traffic attorneys understands the nuances of California law and how to effectively challenge these charges. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your driving record, your finances, and your future.Don’t let a traffic violation derail your life. Contact Spodek Law Group today at 212-300-5196 for a free consultation. Let us fight for you and help you move past this challenging situation.Remember, when it comes to traffic violations, you have rights. Let Spodek Law Group help you assert those rights and work towards the best possible resolution of your case. Your future on the road starts with one call to our office. Don’t wait – contact us now and take the first step towards resolving your VC 21651(b) charges.