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Alabama drivers will have to make it a point to abide by the rules concerning two new laws on the books – OR it could result in costly fines come November 1st, when law enforcement officials across the state start writing tickets for violations.

Those laws actually went into effect back on September 1st; however, each had what was being called a 60 day “trial period” during which officers weren’t writing tickets only giving warnings.  Now, things are about to change as October comes to a close.

First Law:

Alabama’s new seat belt law requires everyone in a vehicle to buckle up.  Before – seat belts were only required for those in the front seat and minors in the backseat.  Failure for a back seat passenger to wear a seat belt will be considered a secondary violation, meaning that a ticket will only be written if the vehicle is stopped for another reason, such as speeding. If the unbuckled passenger is a licensed driver, they’ll get the ticket.  If NOT, then the driver will be issued the citation.

Second Law:

The Anti-Road Rage law will now prohibits vehicles from staying in the leftmost lane of the interstate for more than a mile and a half without passing another vehicle.  The law states there are exceptions in cases of heavy traffic congestion, inclement weather, road obstructions or if a driver is preparing to take an exit from the left lane. There are also exceptions for emergency vehicles.  Violators can receive a ticket for up to $200.

(AL.COM/www.al.com)