Carolina Squat Ban Takes Full Effect May 10th
Back on November 12, 2023, the Carolina Squat ban was put into place in South Carolina. This means it is illegal to operate a “squatted” vehicle in South Carolina, per SC Code Section 56-5-4445. As someone who lives in South Carolina, I was wondering when they would enforce the ban because since the law passed, I have still seen many squatted vehicles on the roads.
What Is The Carolina Squat Ban?
The definition of a “squatted” vehicle means a vehicle where the front or rear fender is raised four or more inches higher than the other. After the vote was passed, it was determined that South Carolina law enforcement would only be able to issue warning citations for the first six months.
And now that six-month mark is upon us. The warning period for the Carolina Squat will end on May 9th, 2024. Starting on May 10th, 2024, drivers will receive a ticket for a violation. This new law will include the following penalties for violations:
- $100 fine for the first offense – this is a misdemeanor.
- $200 fine for the second offense
- $300 fine and a 12-month license suspension, starting from the date of conviction, by the Department of Motor Vehicles for a third offense.
If you want to read more on the legislation regarding the Carolina Squat ban, click here.
Other Traffic Laws In South Carolina
There are laws regarding distracted driving in South Carolina. It is unlawful to “use a wireless electronic communication device to compose, send, or read a text-based communication while operating a motor vehicle on the public streets and highways of this State. SC Code Section 56-5-3890.” This is similar to laws in Georgia that ban the use of a cell phone while operating a vehicle.
It’s up to you to operate your vehicle safely, and distractions can cause accidents. In addition to not using your phone while driving, you should also avoid arguments or stressful conversations with passengers.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety also says you should avoid eating while driving. You should also ensure children are properly and safely buckled, and pets should be secured as well.
In 2021, a law was passed called the Move Right Law. This requires drivers to only use the left-hand lane to pass, and slower traffic to keep right. While it’s not a criminal offense, it is considered a civil violation that could result in a $25 fine. More on that law here.
There’s another law regarding changing lanes, and that’s the Move Over Law. This asks drivers to slow down and move a lane away from emergency vehicles on the side of the road. There are also laws pertaining to speeding in a work zone, seat belt usage, and school bus laws. See more South Carolina traffic laws HERE.
To check out traffic laws in Georgia, click here.
Roadside Frustrations: 8 Most Annoying Habits Of Other Drivers
The Lane Hogger
You know the type. They leisurely cruise along in the left lane, seemingly oblivious to the growing line of cars behind them. They show no intention of moving over, despite signs clearly indicating slower traffic should keep right. It’s as if they believe they own that lane and everyone else is just passing through.
The Indecisive Merge Master
You’re approaching a merging lane, diligently signaling your intention to merge, when suddenly you spot them—the driver who can’t seem to commit to either accelerating to merge or slowing down to let you in. They teeter on the edge of indecision, causing a chaotic dance of hesitant maneuvering that disrupts the flow of traffic.
The Tailgater
We’ve all encountered the driver who seemingly has a vendetta against personal space. They ride your bumper with an intensity that could rival a race car driver. Whether they’re running late or simply have a persistent need to assert dominance, their tailgating antics create an anxiety-inducing experience.
The Incessant Honker
Honking is meant to be a communication tool, a gentle reminder to draw attention to potential dangers or to express gratitude. However, a special breed of drivers wield their horns like a weapon of mass annoyance. They honk at the slightest inconvenience, from a fraction-of-a-second delay at a green light to a cautious pedestrian exercising their right of way.
The Distracted Doodler
We’re all aware of the dangers of distracted driving, yet some individuals choose to engage in activities outside the confines of a moving vehicle. From applying makeup and eating full meals to scrolling through social media or engaging in animated conversations, these drivers treat their cars as mobile living rooms. Their lack of focus puts us all at risk, and we can’t help but wonder if they have forgotten that driving requires undivided attention.
The Fast Lane Snail
The left lane, aka the fast lane, is meant for, well, going fast. But there’s always that one driver who decides to take a leisurely Sunday drive right there, blocking everyone else behind them. This forces other drivers to undertake risky maneuvers to overtake them, leading to frustration and potentially dangerous situations.
The Traffic Rule Ignorer
Traffic rules exist for a reason. To maintain order, safety, and efficiency on the roads. However, some drivers seemingly view these rules as mere suggestions. They run red lights, ignore stop signs, and make illegal U-turns with complete disregard for the potential consequences. Their actions create chaos and put everyone around them at risk.
The Turn Signal Skippers
It’s like these drivers believe that turn signals are optional car accessories. They change lanes or make turns without a single blinker in sight, leaving the rest of us to play mind readers and guess their next move.
