Pulled Over for Equipment Violations in Los Angeles

Getting pulled over is never fun, but it can feel especially frustrating when it’s for something minor like an equipment violation. If you’ve been stopped in LA for a broken taillight or expired registration, you’re not alone. Equipment violations make up a decent chunk of all traffic stops here. But there are some things to keep in mind that might help you deal with it better. Let’s break it down:

What counts as an equipment violation?

Basically anything to do with your vehicle being out of compliance. This includes:

• Broken or non-working lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, etc.)
• Cracked windshield
• Loud exhaust system
• Tinted windows that are too dark
• Missing or obscured license plates
• Expired registration tags
• Modifications that aren’t street legal

So things that could make your car unsafe or not road-ready. If a cop spots any of these, they can pull you over even if you weren’t otherwise driving recklessly.

Why do cops bother with this stuff?

Some say it’s just an excuse to go fishing for other violations. But police claim it’s about traffic safety – vehicles that aren’t properly maintained or equipped can be hazardous. Of course, it also generates revenue from citations. And minor stops are opportunities to inspect the car and driver more closely. So there may be multiple motives behind equipment stops.

What happens when you get pulled over?

The usual routine:

1. Pull over safely when signaled.
2. Roll down window and turn off car.
3. Cop approaches and asks for license and registration.
4. Explain reason for the stop.
5. Decide whether to issue a warning or citation.

With equipment violations, they’ll also likely take a walk around your car to inspect the issue up close. Don’t get out of your vehicle unless instructed to do so.

Can you fight an equipment violation ticket?

You can always contest a citation in court. For equipment violations, common defenses include:

• The equipment was working properly at the time.
• You fixed the issue right away, so dismiss ticket.
• The equipment is allowable by law.
• You have proof of prior inspection showing equipment compliant.

Evidence like dashcam footage or repair receipts will help. But know that cops usually verify the violation before writing the ticket. So you’ll have to prove the equipment was operable and compliant at the actual time of the stop.

What if you just pay the fine?

The good news is equipment violation fines are relatively low in California – generally $25-$250. Points aren’t added to your license either. But any traffic conviction stays on your record for 3 years and can raise insurance rates. Paying is the easiest option, but not always the best long-term.

Can you get the ticket dismissed?

There are a few options for getting an equipment ticket dismissed:

• Traffic school – Plead guilty and complete an online traffic course to remove citation from record.
• Fix-it dismissal – Correct violation and show proof in court for dismissal.
• Trial by written declaration – Contest ticket by mail and avoid an in-person trial.

Talk to a traffic lawyer to understand the best path for your situation. Getting the ticket dropped means no fine, no point, no insurance impact.

Are equipment stops legal?

Yes – as long as the initial reason for the stop was a suspected equipment violation. Cops can’t pull you over just to fish around for other crimes without cause. But they can initiate a traffic stop if they reasonably believe your vehicle has faulty equipment. Some key points on legality:

• Officer needs “probable cause” that a violation occurred to legally stop you.
• Violation doesn’t have to be major – even slight defects justify a stop.
• Once stopped, officer can expand investigation if other offenses observed.
• Controversial “pretext stops” now limited in California.

The standard for initiating equipment stops is fairly low compared to other traffic violations. But there are some constraints – like the recent limits placed on LAPD.

What if the officer was wrong?

Cops make mistakes too. Even with proper training, it’s easy to misjudge if a taillight is working properly at night or whether window tint is too dark. If you’re positive your vehicle was in compliance when stopped, don’t be afraid to challenge the citation. Just stay calm and cooperative during the actual stop, then fight the ticket in court later.

How can you prevent equipment stops?

Getting pulled over is largely out of your control. But you can reduce the odds by:

• Regularly inspecting lights, signals, glass, tags, etc.
• Fixing any issues immediately.
• Keeping vehicle well-maintained.
• Renewing registration on time.
• Using bumper stickers sparingly.
• Driving an older model car – cops target flashy vehicles.

And of course following traffic laws in general and avoiding known speed traps reduces your risk of getting stopped.

What if you feel profiled?

Racial profiling and bias are real issues with traffic stops. Equipment stops can be part of this problem. Don’t argue during the stop itself – stay calm and get the officer’s badge number. File a complaint or contact the ACLU later if you feel unfairly targeted. Groups like the LA Legal Defense Foundation also fight discriminatory policing practices.

The bottom line

Minor stops may seem ridiculous, but don’t take equipment violations lightly. Pay attention to your car’s maintenance, know your rights, and consult a traffic attorney if challenging a citation. With some preparation, you can smoothly deal with equipment stops in LA.