Can I get a ticket in GA for switching lanes in an intersection? Here’s what the law says
For most, driving is like second nature between daily commutes to work, home and anything in between. Despite that, there are some less acknowledged rules for the more dangerous parts of the road, such as intersections.
Consequences for violating certain traffic laws vary depending on how or when a vehicle turns, merges, yields, etc. However, switching lanes in a busy area like an intersection can lead to some legal issues for drivers if they aren’t cautious.
Is changing lanes in an intersection illegal?
Changing lanes in the middle of an intersection isn’t technically considered an illegal action itself, but it could be considered dangerous when proper signaling is not given or when reasonable safety while driving is not exercised.
The code Section 40-6-123 prohibits the turning or changing of lanes in unsafe or improper conditions, stating:
“No person shall turn a vehicle at an intersection unless the vehicle is in proper position upon the roadway as required in Code Section 40-6-120 or turn a vehicle to enter a private road or driveway or otherwise turn a vehicle from a direct course or change lanes or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety.”
Switching lanes within an intersection can be dangerous because other vehicles may be relying on a cleared lane so that they can exit the intersection safely. If a driver is caught merging at the risk of others or without the use of a turning signal, the driver could be charged with failure to signal or even reckless driving in some extreme cases.
Can you be ticketed for violating these codes?
Per its omission from Georgia traffic laws, the act of switching lanes while in an intersection in fact not illegal, but Georgia law classifies the offenses of failure to signal and failure to maintain lane as misdemeanors, which could result in a ticket and maximum fines of $1,000. Minimum fines can range between $100 to $200.
Additionally, if an accident occurs as a result of either code violation, then the driver of the vehicle in violation could be at fault and subject to legal action, according to multiple Georgia law firms.
Violating either code can result in a 3-point offense on the driver’s record (refer to Georgia’s point system), which could be especially harmful for younger drivers. Exceeding 15 points within 24 months through the violation of certain traffic laws could lead to a suspended license for drivers over 21.
The point system is more strictly enforced upon drivers aged 15 to 20, as the limit is set at a four-point limit across 24 months before license suspension.
This story was originally published July 26, 2025 at 6:00 AM.