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Traffic Violation

Traffic Violation Definition

Traffic violations occur when drivers violate traffic laws while controlling their vehicle on streets or highways. Traffic violations are quite common in the United States. In fact, 90% of Americans that are over 16 years of age that have a driver’s license end up with more than one traffic violation

What Are the Most Common Types of Traffic Violations & How Much Do They Cost? 

The most common types of traffic violations are running red lights, speeding, reckless driving, and DUIs. Depending on the severity of the traffic violation, a fee will be designated. The fee designated will depend on the state where the traffic violation took place. Each local law enforcement agency has its own regulations about what each ticket will cost. It is essential for drivers to be aware of these different fees before driving irresponsibly. 

What Is Strict Liability? 

Many traffic violations are issued as "strict liability" offenses. What "strict liability" means is that there is no particular criminal intent required to prove a person is guilty of the offense. The only proof required is that the person did commit the prohibited act. Strict-liability traffic offenses usually include traffic offenses such as: 

  • Speeding.
  • Failure to yield.
  • Turning into the incorrect lane.
  • Overdue parking meters.
  • Parking in a handicap space without the properly registered sticker.

What Is the Difference Between a Moving and Non-Moving Violation? 

The difference between a moving and non-moving violation is that a moving violation occurs when the vehicle is moving. Some common moving violations are: 

A non-moving violation usually involves equipment on the vehicle that is not working correctly or parking-related offenses. Some typical examples of non-moving violations are: 

  • Parking in front of a fire hydrant.
  • Parking in front of an expired meter.
  • Parking in the incorrect or no-parking zone.
  • Excessive muffler noise.
  • Broken tail lights. 

What Happens if I want to Challenge My Traffic Violation? 

Depending on the state, there is a way to challenge traffic violations. On the back of your ticket, you will see a date to appear in court and an address of the court usually. Be sure to appear to the court date and challenge the police officer that provided you with the ticket. If that police officer fails to show up, you will have to present your case, and sometimes, the court will enter a default judgment in your favor. 

How Do Traffic Violations Impact My Auto Insurance Rates? 

Any traffic ticket or car accident you receive does have an impact on your auto insurance rates. It is important to remember that these insurance providers assess your level of risk and then create a calculation of what it will cost to insure you. Try to avoid accidents and traffic violations to be sure you have the lowest car insurance payments possible. 

What if I have a DUI? 

DUIs are offenses that are taken very seriously within the United States. Recently, the United States has made even stricter regulations about DUIs and what constitutes a blood alcohol level that is too high in an effort to reduce the high annual volume of accidents related to driving under the influence in the United States. If you have been pulled over with a DUI, it is vital that you do not resist arrest and that you complete every requirement that the law enforcement officers set out for you. In some cases, individuals can lose their license up to ten years or even permanently. If there are fatalities involved, the charges may be even more severe. Be sure that you avoid drinking and driving at all costs because the long-term implications are not worth the sacrifice. 

Traffic Violation Glossary Definition

Traffic violations are quite common in the United States. Traffic Violations occur when a law enforcement officer pulls over a driver and gives them a ticket for a law that they broke while either moving or non-moving. Traffic Violations can be very expensive, depending on the severity of the offense. It is essential to be aware of posted speed limits in each state that you drive so that you avoid obtaining additional traffic tickets