Missing or Severely Damaged Bumper
A CVC 28071 citation means your vehicle bumper was missing or in a condition that made it a safety hazard. California law requires bumpers on passenger vehicles. Repairing or replacing the bumper and having the correction certified resolves this violation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation.
Fine After Correction
The base fine is $25 after correction is certified. Without correction, surcharges significantly increase the total.
Who Can Certify
Any law enforcement officer or licensed inspection station can certify this correction after the bumper is repaired or replaced.
Act before the deadline to avoid conversion to a standard infraction.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Assess whether the bumper can be repaired or needs full replacement.
- 2
Have the bumper repaired or replaced at a licensed body shop.
- 3
Confirm the bumper is properly secured and does not pose a safety hazard.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer or inspection station sign the certificate of correction on your citation.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does a cracked or dented bumper always result in a citation?
- Minor cosmetic damage alone may not result in a CVC 28071 citation. The law focuses on bumpers that create a safety hazard. A bumper that is hanging loose, missing entirely, or has sharp edges exposing other people to injury is more likely to be cited.
This guide covers passenger vehicle violations. Drivers operating under a commercial license should consult their employer or a licensed attorney.
This guide provides general procedural information only. It is not legal advice. For questions specific to your citation, contact the court listed on your ticket.
Also have a moving violation on your ticket?
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