By Natalie Moritz | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed November 20, 2023
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Understanding state traffic laws and motor vehicle safety guidelines is a must for Alabama motorists to stay safe on the roads. A refresher on basic driving rules can also help you avoid a ticket and fine from a police officer.
In this article, you can learn more about Alabama traffic law, motor vehicle safety, and common traffic violations.
Use the following driving manuals and vehicle codes:
The driving manuals and vehicle codes in the bullets above cover several topics. The links at the end of this article also go in-depth about state-specific traffic and driving laws. Learn more about:
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Department of Public Safety is the drivers' go-to for several resources, including:
The Motor Vehicle Division at the Alabama Department of Revenue provides the following services:
Visit Alabama Arise for commuter resources and public transit information.
Drive Safe Alabama at the Alabama Department of Transportation provides online road safety resources and statistics.
Find common traffic laws and links to their statutes in the table below.
| Drinking & Driving Violations | Driving while under influence of alcohol, controlled substances(AL Code 32-5A-191) |
|---|---|
| Driving on the Right Side | Driving on right side of roadway; exceptions(AL Code 32-5A-80) |
| Driving Without a License / With a Suspended License | License required (AL Code 32-6-1)Penalties - Violations in general (AL Code 32-6-18) |
| Driving Without Insurance / With Insufficient Insurance | Liability insurance required (AL Code 32-7A-4) |
| Driving Without Registration / With Expired Registration | Licenses & Registration (AL Code Title 32, Ch. 6) |
| Illegal U-Turn | Turning movements and required signals (AL Code 32-5A-133) |
| Leaving the Scene of an Accident / Hit & Run | Motor Vehicle Accidents (AL Code Title 32, Ch. 10) |
| Mechanical Violations | Regulation of Operation of Motor Vehicles: Equipment (AL Code Title 32, Ch. 5, Article 9) |
| Move Over Law | Moving over or reducing speed when approaching law enforcement or emergency vehicles (AL Code 32-5A-58.2) |
| Reckless Driving | Reckless driving (AL Code 32-5A-190) |
| Running a Red Light / Stop Sign | Obedience to traffic-control devices (AL Code 32-5A-31) |
| Seat Belt / Child Restraint Violations | Alabama Safety Belt Act (AL Code Title 32, Ch. 5B) |
| Speeding | Reasonable and prudent speed (AL Code 32-5A-170)Maximum limits (AL Code 32-5A-171) |
| Unlawful Vehicle Modifications | Regulation of Operation of Motor Vehicles: Equipment (AL Code Title 32, Ch. 5, Article 9)Window Tinting(AL Code Title 32, Ch. 5C) |
If you have been ticketed for an Alabama traffic offense, you can contact a traffic ticket attorney in your area. A lawyer with experience in local state laws can review the details of your citation. This may save you a costly fine and keep points off your driver's license. In some cases, it can even prevent a driver's license suspension and a spike in your auto insurance premiums.
If you have been charged with a more serious offense, like a DUI or reckless driving, consider contacting a criminal defense attorney. A skilled attorney can review the circumstances of your charge, challenge evidence, and negotiate with the prosecution.
Contact a qualified traffic ticket attorney to help you get the best result possible.
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many traffic ticket attorneys offer free consultations.