Missing Bumper
A CVC 28071 citation means your passenger vehicle did not have a front and a rear bumper. Vehicle Code 28071 requires both on passenger vehicles registered in California. It does not apply to a vehicle that state or federal law requires to have an energy absorption system, or to a vehicle first sold without a bumper. Putting the missing bumper back on, then getting the correction signed off, resolves this violation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation.
Fee After Correction
These steps apply when your ticket was issued as correctable. An officer does not issue it that way if there is evidence of fraud or persistent neglect, the violation presents an immediate safety hazard, or you cannot promptly correct it (Vehicle Code 40610(b)). When the court accepts your proof of correction, the court clerk collects a $25 fee for each corrected violation (Vehicle Code 40611). There is no fee if the agency that cited you handles the correction and nothing is sent to the court (Vehicle Code 40611(c)). Without proof of correction, you may owe the full fine. Check your notice or ask your court for the amount.
Who Can Certify
A police department, the CHP, a sheriff, a marshal or another agency that enforces the Vehicle Code can certify this correction after the bumper is repaired or replaced.
The court must dismiss a corrected violation when you deliver proof of correction on or before the date on your ticket (Vehicle Code 40522). After that date it may not accept the correction, and you may owe the full fine. If you fail to appear without good cause, the court may add a civil assessment of up to $100 after mailing you a warning notice (Penal Code 1214.1). Willfully failing to appear, or willfully failing to deliver proof of correction, is a misdemeanor (Vehicle Code 40508 and 40616). If you need more time, ask the court before the date passes.
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 vehicle has both a front and a rear bumper, securely attached.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer 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
- Is a cracked or dented bumper a violation?
- Vehicle Code 28071 requires the vehicle to be equipped with a front and a rear bumper. It says nothing about dents or cracks. If your ticket names a different problem, follow what the ticket says or ask the court.
This guide covers passenger vehicles. Some rules differ for commercial vehicles and truck tractors (for example, where registration tabs go under Vehicle Code 5204(a)). If you were driving one, check with your 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.
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