DRIVERS must make sure they comply with the ’50-foot ‘ plate rule to avoid an $100 fine.
The common plate error is easy to avoid and can save you from unnecessary fines.
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The ’50-foot’ plate rule refers to when a license plate becomes unreadable from 50 feet away, making the license plate illegible.
This could be caused by issues like loss of reflectivity, peeling, blistering, or discoloration.
It is illegal to operate a vehicle with an illegible plate in Pennsylvania, and motorists are paying the price.
The good news is, replacement plates can be easily requested from PennDOT free of charge.
To help citizens, Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver recently held a license plate replacement event, ensuring that everyone’s car’s complied with the law.
Culver said: “Replacing a damaged license plate is important for vehicle compliance and avoiding unnecessary fines.
“These events, held in partnership with local law enforcement, offer convenient, no-cost opportunities for residents to have their plates checked and get the replacement process started easily.”
The event was held on Thursday 8 May at Brown Avenue Park in Milton, Pennsylvania.
Milton Police Department Officer Brad Gaugler worked alongside Pennsylvania State Police trooper Sara Barrett to assist local residents.
The pair verified whether license plates were eligible or were in need of replacement.
Faulty plates are replaced for free provided that it has been verified by law enforcement or a certified inspection station.
Barrett said: “It’s important to have visible registration tags.”
“We see unreadable license plates all the time, but people can get them fixed and changed for free,” she added.
Those needing a replacement just have to fill out a form.
At the event, Wendy Dombroskie, a constituent relations specialist at Culver’s office, assisted people with their forms.
Dombroskie said: “This replacement event is free of charge.
“People drive through, we have the forms ready, they show their registration, the police verify that the plate needs to be replaced, and in a few weeks, their new plate arrives in the mail.”
Terry Campbell, Culver’s district director of Shamokin Dam said: “This also helps law enforcement get illegible plates off the road.
“We’re partnering with local law enforcement and the state police.”
Individuals who were unable to attend the events on the 1st and 8th of May can contact their senator or state police barracks to get an illegible plate verified and request a free replacement.
Proper conduct during a traffic stop
According to the ACLU, there are a few tips for ensuring a smooth traffic stop, no matter the violation.
- Stop the vehicle in a safe place away from traffic as soon as possible.
- Kill the engine, roll down the windows, and place your hands on the driving wheel. If it’s dark outside, turn on the interior lights to give the officer a good visual. If you’re in the passenger’s seat, keep your hands visible.
- Only reach for your purse or wallet, registration, and proof of insurance when instructed to by the officers. Do not reach for the glove box until prompted by the officer.
- Do not make sudden movements. Narrate everything you’re doing, ie, “I’m reaching for my purse in the backseat.”
- Keep your tone calm and respectful.
Source: ACLU