Last Updated on June 5, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Ticket Defense Attorney
Being pulled over for a traffic violation can be unsettling, and sometimes the reason cited by law enforcement can feel ambiguous. One such common reason is “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane.” While it might seem like a straightforward traffic offense, the legal interpretation in Texas is more nuanced than many drivers realize. If you’ve received a Failure to Maintain a Single Lane traffic ticket in Texas, understanding the law and your options is crucial.
At The Beltz Law Group, we regularly defend drivers across North Texas who have been cited for this violation. We know that these tickets are often used as a pretext for a traffic stop, and that simply paying them can lead to unnecessary convictions on your driving record.
What Does “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” Mean in Texas Law?
The offense of “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” is outlined in the Texas Transportation Code Section 545.060. This statute generally states that an operator on a roadway divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic:
- Shall drive as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane; and
- May not move from the lane unless that movement can be made safely.
The key phrase here, and the subject of significant legal debate, is “unless that movement can be made safely.”
The Crucial Legal Precedent: When “Weaving” Becomes a Violation
Many drivers intuitively understand that it’s nearly impossible to drive a perfectly straight line without occasionally touching or crossing a lane divider, especially on long stretches, in bad weather, or when navigating curves. This common driving behavior leads to a vital question: Is merely touching or crossing a lane line enough to justify a traffic stop and a “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” ticket?
Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney
Texas case law, particularly in cases like Hernandez v. State, 983 S.W.2d 867 (Tex. App.—Austin 1998, pet. ref’d) and its progeny, has clarified this issue. These rulings establish that a vehicle’s movement out of a single lane, without more, is generally not a traffic offense unless that movement is also unsafe.
As the courts have noted, “Driving is, in and of itself, a controlled weaving.” The legislative history of this statute indicates that a traffic violation for straying over a lane marker occurs only when the vehicle’s movement poses some form of danger or unsafeness to other drivers. An officer must typically be able to articulate why the movement was unsafe – for example, that it caused another vehicle to brake or swerve, or occurred in an area where it created an immediate hazard.
Consequences of a “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” Conviction
While a “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” ticket is typically a Class C misdemeanor (punishable by fine), a conviction on your record can still have undesirable consequences:
- Impact on Driving Record: A conviction goes on your permanent driving record. While Texas no longer assesses points or surcharges for most traffic offenses, multiple convictions or certain serious violations can still contribute to your driver’s license being suspended.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Your auto insurance provider may view a conviction as an increased risk, potentially leading to higher premiums for years.
- Pretextual Stop Issues: Because this violation is sometimes used as a pretext, a conviction could be linked to more serious charges if the stop led to further investigation (e.g., DWI). Winning this initial traffic case can sometimes undermine the basis for any subsequent charges.
Defending Your “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” Ticket in Texas
If you’ve received a traffic ticket for “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, Garland, Irving, McKinney, Frisco, or any other surrounding community in North Texas, it’s crucial to understand your legal options. Do not simply pay the ticket without consulting with a legal professional.
The attorneys at The Beltz Law Group have extensive experience defending traffic tickets across North Texas municipal and justice courts. We understand the specific nuances of Texas Transportation Code Section 545.060 and the relevant case law. We can help you:
- Evaluate the Officer’s Justification: We will scrutinize the details of the police report and the officer’s testimony to determine if the alleged lane deviation truly met the “unsafe” standard required for a lawful stop and ticket.
- Challenge the Evidence: We will look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate for Dismissal or Favorable Outcome: If a dismissal isn’t possible, we will negotiate with the prosecutor for alternatives like deferred disposition, which keeps the conviction off your permanent driving record.
- Represent You in Court: Our attorneys can appear in court on your behalf, saving you time and the stress of dealing with the court system directly.
Don’t let a “Failure to Maintain a Single Lane” ticket negatively impact your driving record and insurance rates. Contact The Beltz Law Group today to discuss your options and build a strong defense. Our experienced traffic ticket attorneys are ready to provide the legal guidance you need.
Call us now at 214-321-4105 for a free consultation.
