HOUSTON -- It's a horrible feeling to see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror. You weren't speeding. You didn't run a red light.

A recent court decision means many motorists could be stopped for an offense that is so common they may not realize they're breaking the law.

It's a license plate frame. Many of the frames on vehicles around Houston could now get drivers stopped, fined and possibly arrested.

They seem harmless. They show spirit for alma maters and give car dealers plugs.

Since 2003, if the frames cover any portion of a license plate's number, design or artwork, they're illegal.

Until now, police could only ticket a driver if they were already stopped on suspicion of another offense.

In February, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals handed down a ruling that allows police to stop motorists solely for the frame violation.

Police can search a driver's car and even make an arrest.

Take a look at the frame on your plate, if you have one. Are they covering the words, "Lone Star State?" Are they covering part of any of the artwork? If they are, you could get in big trouble for it.

What should motorists do to avoid being stopped for a license plate frame?

The best bet is to remove the frames and use basic nuts and bolts.