If you’ve been cited for failing to stay in your lane, and you're unsure what this means for your driving record and what steps to take next, you’ve come to the right place. 

Traffic laws can be tricky, and failing to address a traffic citation can lead to bigger problems, such as increased insurance rates or even license suspension.  

At Buss Law, I have helped countless drivers in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, resolve their tickets or citations and achieve the best possible outcome for their case.  

If you’ve been ticketed for failing to stay in your lane, reach out for clear, practical advice. You don’t have to deal with this alone—I’m here to help. 

What Does "Failure to Stay in Your Lane" Mean in Wisconsin?

Failure to stay in your lane is a traffic violation that occurs when a driver veers out of their designated lane of travel. This could happen for several reasons—perhaps you were distracted, didn’t signal when changing lanes, or wanted to avoid an obstacle.

Regardless of the cause, a citation can impact your driving record and finances. 

Wisconsin traffic laws require drivers to remain within their designated lane as much as possible, particularly on roadways with multiple lanes and heavy traffic.  

Lane discipline is not just a guideline—it’s a safety measure designed to prevent accidents. Drifting into another lane without proper signaling or awareness can increase the risk of collisions, putting you and other drivers at risk. Because of this, law enforcement officers are vigilant in issuing citations for lane-related violations. 

Understanding the law and your rights is the first step to addressing a citation. Let me walk you through Wisconsin traffic laws governing failure to stay in your lane.

Wisconsin Laws on Staying in Your Lane

Under Wisconsin law, traffic regulations about lane usage can be found within Chapter 346 of the Wisconsin Statutes.

The provision addressing failure to stay in your lane is found under 346.13(1), which states that on roadways divided into two or more clearly marked lanes, “the operator of a vehicle shall drive as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane or line of traffic and may not move from that lane or line until the operator has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety.” 

Here are a few scenarios where Wisconsin drivers might be cited for failing to stay in their lane: 

• Drifting into another lane without signaling, particularly on highways

• Making abrupt lane changes without checking for traffic in adjacent lanes 

• Crossing the centerline on two-lane roads, even momentarily 

• Driving in the shoulder lane unless expressly permitted (for example, during emergencies) 

• Failing to maintain proper control during inclement weather conditions or around construction zones 

Law enforcement officers may observe and document what they perceive as improper lane usage, especially if it led to or risked an accident. Penalties for failing to stay in your lane can include: 

• Fines and court costs 

• Points added to your driving record (typically 3-4 points for this offense) 

• Potential increases in your insurance premium 

The penalties could escalate depending on the circumstances, such as if the lane departure caused an accident. This makes it all the more important to understand your situation and respond appropriately. 

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Failure to Stay in Your Lane Ticket?

You might think traffic tickets are minor inconveniences, but the consequences can add up quickly. Paying the fine may seem like the simplest option, but doing so is essentially admitting guilt, which can result in points and increased insurance premiums.  

If your driving record already has points, a citation for failing to stay in your lane could bring you closer to a license suspension. 

This is where I can help. By taking a closer look at your ticket, the circumstances surrounding the offense, and the impact it could have, we will determine the best course of action.  

There may be an opportunity to have the ticket reduced to a lower offense, dismissed entirely, or resolved without impacting your record. 

Some common defenses in failure-to-stay-in-your-lane cases include: 

• Improper lane markings or obscured signage 

• Necessity due to unavoidable circumstances (e.g., avoiding a hazard or maneuvering around a stalled vehicle) 

• Lack of clear evidence from law enforcement, such as dashcam footage or credible witness testimony 

• Equipment issues, like a flat tire that caused unintentional drifting 

Each case is unique. I’ll explore every feasible avenue to protect your driving record and minimize penalties. 

Tips for Preventing Future Violations

The best way to handle traffic violations is to avoid them altogether. Here are some tips to help you stay in your lane and avoid future citations: 

• Stay alert: Avoid distractions like phone usage, loud music, or eating while driving. 

• Signal your intentions: Always use your turn signal when switching lanes to alert other drivers. 

• Avoid drowsy driving: Fatigue can impair your ability to maintain lane discipline. 

• Mind weather conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can make lanes slippery or hard to see—adjust your driving accordingly. 

• Obey speed limits: Speeding often causes loss of control and failure to stay in the correct lane. 

Traffic Citation Attorney Serving Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

If you’ve been cited for failure to stay in your lane or any other traffic offense, Buss Law is here to help clients across Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Together, we’ll review your ticket and explore your options for resolving it efficiently and with as little impact on your record as possible.

With personalized legal representation, I can handle the details so you can focus on moving forward. Contact me anytime to address your traffic citation today.