Do You Always Stop at a Stop Sign?
Stop signs are one of the most recognizable traffic control devices, yet they are also among the most frequently ignored. Many drivers perform a “rolling stop,” slowing down but never coming to a complete stop. While some may see this as harmless, under Texas law, failing to stop fully at a stop sign is a violation that can result in tickets, fines, points on your license, and even accidents that cause serious injuries.
If you have ever wondered whether you really need to stop at every stop sign—or what happens if you don’t—this article will walk you through the law, the risks, and what it means for both drivers and pedestrians.
Texas Stop Sign Law: The Basics
Under the Texas Transportation Code §544.010, drivers are required to come to a complete stop at a stop sign. This means:
Your vehicle must fully cease movement before the marked stop line, crosswalk, or intersection.
A “rolling stop” (sometimes called a “California stop”) does not count as a legal stop.
Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and other vehicles already in the intersection.
In short, the law is clear: you must always stop at a stop sign. Anything less can result in penalties.
Common Reasons Drivers Fail to Stop
Even though the law is straightforward, many drivers cut corners when it comes to stop signs. Common reasons include:
Rushing: Being late for work, appointments, or errands.
Empty roads: Assuming it’s safe if no other cars or pedestrians are visible.
Habit: Drivers who frequently pass through the same neighborhood may develop bad habits.
Distraction: Phones, radios, or conversations can cause drivers to overlook stop signs.
Unfortunately, what seems like saving a few seconds can have serious consequences.
Penalties for Failing to Stop at a Stop Sign in Texas
Ignoring a stop sign is more than just a minor mistake—it can carry legal and financial consequences. Possible penalties include:
Traffic ticket fines: Typically between $150 and $200, depending on the county or city.
Court costs and fees: Added to the fine, raising the total amount owed.
Points on your license: A stop sign violation can add two points, which stay on your record for three years.
Increased insurance rates: Insurance companies often raise rates after traffic violations.
License suspension: Repeated violations can lead to suspension or revocation.
If the violation leads to an accident, the penalties—and potential liability—are far more severe.
Stop Sign Violations and Car Accidents
Running or rolling through a stop sign is one of the leading causes of intersection collisions. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 40% of all crashes in the U.S. occur at intersections, and stop sign violations are a major contributor.
Common types of accidents caused by stop sign violations include:
T-bone collisions: When one driver fails to stop and strikes another vehicle crossing the intersection.
Rear-end crashes: When a driver assumes the car in front will keep moving but it stops instead.
Pedestrian and cyclist accidents: Stop signs often exist to protect people crossing the street.
These crashes can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and even fatalities.
Stop Signs and Right-of-Way Rules
Stopping at a stop sign isn’t just about your car—it’s about understanding who has the right-of-way once you’re stopped.
Four-way stops: The first vehicle to stop is the first to proceed. If two vehicles stop at the same time, the driver to the right has the right-of-way.
Two-way stops: Drivers must stop and yield to cross-traffic that does not have a stop sign.
Pedestrians: Always have the right-of-way in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Failing to respect right-of-way rules after stopping can still cause dangerous accidents.
The Role of Stop Signs in Road Safety
Stop signs are placed at intersections for a reason—they are meant to prevent collisions and regulate traffic flow. Ignoring them undermines road safety for everyone.
Protecting neighborhoods: Residential areas often use stop signs to slow down traffic where children play or people walk their dogs.
Preventing high-speed crashes: At busy intersections, stop signs force drivers to reduce speed and check for oncoming traffic.
Enhancing visibility: Stop signs are often used where obstructions—like trees, fences, or parked cars—make it difficult to see approaching vehicles.
Every stop sign is installed with safety in mind. Skipping one puts lives at risk.
Can You Fight a Stop Sign Ticket in Texas?
Yes, it’s possible to contest a stop sign ticket, but it can be challenging. Some defenses include:
Improper signage: If the stop sign was obscured by vegetation or missing altogether.
Unclear intersection: In rare cases, intersections may not be clearly marked.
Emergency situations: If stopping would have posed a greater danger.
However, these defenses are not always successful. In most cases, the law favors full stops.
Stop Sign Violations and Personal Injury Claims
If someone runs a stop sign and causes an accident, they can be held liable for damages. These damages may include:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Property damage
Pain and suffering
In Texas, personal injury claims after stop sign accidents often hinge on proving negligence. A driver who fails to stop at a clearly posted stop sign is typically considered negligent.
Safety Tips for Drivers at Stop Signs
To stay safe—and avoid tickets—follow these best practices at every stop sign:
Come to a full stop at the line, even if no one else is around.
Look both ways twice before proceeding.
Check for pedestrians and cyclists, not just cars.
Count to two or three seconds to ensure a full stop.
Avoid distractions that could cause you to miss a stop sign.
Why “Rolling Stops” Are Dangerous
Many drivers believe a rolling stop is harmless if no one else is nearby. The truth is, rolling stops:
Reduce your reaction time.
Increase the chance of missing a pedestrian or cyclist.
Can cause confusion with other drivers about right-of-way.
Are easily spotted by law enforcement.
A full stop ensures that you actually process the intersection and its risks.
Carrollton Injury Law: Protecting Victims of Stop Sign Accidents
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident caused by a driver who failed to stop at a stop sign, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Carrollton Injury Law, we put Personal back into Personal Injury Law by standing beside clients during some of the hardest times in their lives.
Our team helps clients:
Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
Determine fault and prove negligence.
Negotiate with insurance companies.
Seek maximum compensation for medical bills, lost income, and suffering.
You don’t have to face this process alone—support is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you always have to stop at a stop sign in Texas?
Yes. Texas law requires a complete stop at every stop sign, regardless of traffic conditions.
What happens if I do a rolling stop?
A rolling stop is considered a violation. You could receive a ticket, fines, and points on your license.
Can I get arrested for running a stop sign?
Typically, no—it is usually a traffic violation, not a criminal offense. However, if running a stop sign causes an accident resulting in injury or death, criminal charges may apply.
How much is a stop sign ticket in Texas?
The fine usually ranges from $150 to $200, plus court costs and potential increases in insurance premiums.
If someone runs a stop sign and hits me, who is at fault?
In most cases, the driver who failed to stop is considered negligent and may be liable for damages.
Final Thoughts
The law is clear: you must always stop at a stop sign. More importantly, stopping fully saves lives. Rolling through or ignoring stop signs can cause catastrophic accidents that affect drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and families forever.
If you were injured in a stop sign accident in Carrollton or anywhere in Texas, don’t wait to understand your legal options. Reach out to a dedicated injury lawyer who will fight for your rights and help you pursue fair compensation.
