What penalties can result from failing to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk?

Failing to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk can lead to fines and points being added to your driving record because this action is considered a traffic violation. The law is designed to protect pedestrians, ensuring their safety while crossing the street. When a driver disregards this law, the penalties serve as a deterrent against such unsafe behavior.

Fines are typically imposed as a financial penalty for breaking the law, while points on a driving record are used to indicate that a driver has committed an offense. Accumulating points can lead to further consequences, such as increased insurance premiums or even the potential suspension of driving privileges, depending on the driver's overall record and the severity of the violations. This system encourages drivers to be more vigilant and aware of their responsibilities towards pedestrians.

While increased insurance rates can occur after multiple violations or accidents, they are not an immediate consequence of failing to stop for a pedestrian. Community service could be applicable in certain cases, but it is not the standard penalty for this type of traffic violation. The emphasis is on maintaining safety and adherence to traffic laws, which is why fines and points are the most relevant penalties in this situation.