Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign - Vehicle Code § 22450

Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

What counts as a violation of Vehicle Code § 22450?

Vehicle Code § 22450 requires that all drivers come to a complete stop at the limit line when approaching a stop sign. 

This means that the driver of any vehicle approaching a stop sign at the entrance to, or within, an intersection must stop at a limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection.

What if there is no limit line?

Vehicle Code § 22450 states that if there is no limit line or crosswalk, the driver must stop at the entrance to the intersecting roadway.

What if there is a railroad crossing?

Under Vehicle Code § 22450, the driver of a vehicle approaching a stop sign at a railroad crossing must stop at a limit line, if marked, before crossing the first track or entrance to the railroad grade crossing.

What if the stop sign is not located at an intersection or railroad crossing?

Vehicle Code § 22450 permits the local authority to adopt rules and regulations by ordinance or resolution providing for the placement of a stop sign at any location on a highway under its jurisdiction where the stop sign would enhance traffic safety. Highways include public streets and roadways.

What is the punishment for a violation of Vehicle Code § 22450?

A violation under Vehicle Code § 22450 is an infraction punishable by fines of $234 and 1 DMV point. 

Do I need to hire an attorney if I was pulled over for a violation of Vehicle Code § 22450?

A violation of Vehicle Code § 22450 carries serious consequences including a DMV point that can significantly increase your car insurance premium. Hiring an experienced attorney who will go to court for you can help you to avoid these consequences. 

What happens if I get a “DMV point”?

DMV points can lead to a negligent operator license suspension if a driver incurs the following:

  • 4 points in 12 months;
  • 6 points in 24 months; or
  • 8 points in 36 months. 

What are the defenses to a violation of Vehicle Code § 22450?

  1. The stop sign was hidden from view and you could not see it 
  2. You did come to a complete stop