
Driving offenses come in the form of moving violations, non-moving violations, traffic infractions, and traffic crimes. Therefore, you need to work with an experienced traffic violation defense attorney if you want to ensure a more positive outcome for your driving offense case. They can inform you about your rights so you can proceed with a charge with more insight. Let’s look at some of the driving offenses and examples.
Moving Violations
Moving violations are offenses that occur while a vehicle is in motion. These are considered more serious than non-moving violations because they pose a greater risk to public safety.
Speeding:
Speeding is one of the most common moving violations. Some states follow an “absolute speed limit” law, meaning that exceeding the posted speed limit by any amount is a violation. Fines for speeding depend on how much over the limit the driver was going and the location of the offense (e.g., school zones carry higher penalties). It has been reported that 29 percent of total traffic fatalities for a recent year were associated with this common violation.
Running through an intersection when a light is red:
This violation occurs when a driver enters an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red. The fine for this infraction can typically range from $75 to $275, depending on the jurisdiction. Some cities also use red light cameras, which automatically issue citations to violators.
Improper lane change:
This violation includes changing lanes without signaling, cutting off other drivers, or crossing solid lines.
Failure to yield:
This violation occurs when a driver doesn’t yield to drivers or pedestrians as required by law. Common scenarios include failing to yield to emergency vehicles at intersections or when merging onto highways.
Other Examples
Other examples of moving violations can include:
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Driving too slowly
- Improper turning
- Failure to stop at a stop sign
Non-Moving Violations
Non-moving violations are offenses that occur while a vehicle is stationary. While generally less severe than moving violations, they can still result in fines and other penalties.
Illegal parking:
Parking in prohibited areas, such as fire lanes, handicapped spaces without proper authorization, or blocking driveways are all examples of illegal parking. Fines vary widely depending on the specific violation and jurisdiction, ranging from $20 for minor infractions to several hundred dollars for parking in handicapped spaces.
Other Examples
Other examples of non-moving violations include:
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
- Having an obstructed view (e.g., cracked windshield)
- Equipment violations (e.g., broken tail lights, excessively tinted windows)
- Failure to have proper insurance documentation in the vehicle
Traffic Infractions
Traffic infractions are minor offenses that typically result in fines and, sometimes, points on a driver’s license. They can be either moving or non-moving violations.
Examples of traffic infractions include:
- Failure to signal when turning or changing lanes
- Driving with an open container of alcohol in the vehicle
- Violating restrictions on a provisional license (for young drivers)
Traffic Crimes
Traffic crimes are more serious offenses that often involve reckless behavior or result in harm to others. These offenses typically carry more severe penalties, including possible jail time.
Driving on a suspended license
Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license is a serious offense. In some states, first-time offenders can face fines up to $500 and up to six months in jail, and repeat offenders may face even steeper penalties.
Driving while intoxicated
Driving while intoxicated is an offense when a driver’s blood alcohol concentration is at least 0.08 percent. You may face a license suspension for as long as a year and jail time for a first offense.
Reckless driving causing injury or death:
Reckless driving that results in serious bodily injury or death can be charged as a criminal offense. Penalties can include fines up to $4,000 and jail time up to one year for serious bodily injury, with more severe consequences for fatalities.
Hit and run
Leaving the scene of an accident without providing information or rendering aid is a serious crime. For accidents involving injury or death, you may face penalties that include fines and imprisonment.
Vehicular homicide:
Also sometimes known as intoxication manslaughter, this offense occurs when a person causes the death of another due to driving while intoxicated. In some states this crime is punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
License Suspension for Moving Violations
Drivers can still face license suspension for accumulating too many moving violations. Below is an example of Texas guidelines for suspension relating to moving violations:
- Four or more moving violations within 12 months can result in license suspension.
- Seven or more moving violations within 24 months can also lead to suspension.
The length of suspension varies based on the number and type of offenses, typically ranging from 30 days to two years for repeat offenders.
Other Reasons for a License Suspension
Other reasons for license suspension can include:
- DWI conviction (mandatory suspension)
- Causing an accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death
- Being involved in a traffic accident while uninsured
- Failing to pay child support
- Certain drug-related convictions
Work with a Defense Attorney to Ensure the Best Outcome
When you’re facing a driving offense, it is always a good idea to retain legal help. Using the services of a defense lawyer will help you learn more about your rights and experience a better outcome.
Traffic offenses can be serious and come with many penalties designed to promote safe driving and protect public safety. From minor infractions to serious crimes, the consequences of traffic violations can include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
Therefore, it’s vital that drivers understand these laws and practice safe driving habits to avoid the personal, financial, and legal repercussions of a traffic offense or violation.
Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney If You’ve Been Charged with a Traffic Violation
If you are charged with a traffic offense or violation, make sure to contact a traffic violation defense lawyer near you. Learn more about your rights and ensure you’re on a more positive legal course.