The real costs of a non-moving or moving violation
Learn about the consequences of critical driving errors.
Traffic violations can come with hefty price tags, which go beyond the initial fines. From the moment you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror to years down the road, the ripple effects of a single violation can impact your driving record and wallet. But not all violations are equal. Drivers should understand what violations are, how long they can affect their record and how violations could increase insurance rates.
What is a moving violation?
A moving violation occurs whenever a traffic law is violated by a vehicle in motion. Moving violations are considered a more serious offense because they can lead to accidents, endangering both the driver and others on the road. In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated 40,990 fatalities due to motor vehicle traffic accidents. Moving violations typically result in a fine and points added to a driver's license, which can affect insurance rates. Some moving violations include:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated (DUI/DWI)
- Hit and run
- Running a red light
- Failure to signal
- Failure to yield
- Passing illegally
- Tailgating
- Reckless driving
- Driving without a valid license
- Street racing
- Texting while driving
What is a non-moving violation?
A non-moving violation involves a vehicle not in motion and often includes a parking violation or faulty equipment. Non-moving violations generally involve a fine, but do not usually add points to your license unless they accumulate or go unaddressed. Whether these affect insurance rates depend on the insurance company's policies and the specific violation. These include violations like:
- Parking violations
- Lack of insurance
- Faulty equipment
- Expired registration
Understanding moving and non-moving violations
The laws and penalties associated with both moving and non-moving violations can vary from state to state. Mitigating factors such as driving history or the circumstances surrounding the violation may influence the severity of penalties or fines. For example, your fine and consequence for a speeding ticket will depend on the number of miles per hour (mph) above the posted speed limit you were going. On the other hand, if you were caught sleeping and drunk behind the wheel, you could face a DUI conviction and lose your license.
Consequences of a moving violation
The impacts can vary and depend on the type of violation, but common ones include:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Points on driving record
- Potential loss of driving privileges
- Required attendance in driving school
- Possible court appearance
So, how long does a speeding ticket stay on your record for insurance purposes? It typically ranges from three to five years, but it can vary by state and insurance provider.
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Which violations impact insurance rates?
When it comes to insurance rates, moving violations are a major concern. Violations demonstrating aggressive or irresponsible driving can result in you being considered a high-risk driver. Some moving violations are more serious than others and could result in a significant premium increase, non-renewal or cancellation of your policy. These violations include:
- DUI/DWI
- Reckless driving
- Hit and run
- Speeding
Steps to be a better driver
To help minimize the impact on your insurance, it's essential to understand how to be a responsible driver and avoid distractions while driving. Adopt proactive habits such as:
- Drive the speed limit to prevent speeding tickets.
- Stop for red lights and stop signs.
- Be aware of the rules of the road to avoid moving traffic violations.
- Always keep a copy of your registration and insurance card in your vehicle to prevent fines.
- Take a defensive driving course to learn critical skills and possibly reduce points on your license.
The real costs of a traffic violation go beyond the immediate fine — they can have long-standing effects on your driving record and your wallet. By educating yourself on how to be a better driver and avoiding both moving and non-moving violations, you can help keep those costs down and maintain more affordable car insurance rates.
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