A moving violation happens when the driver of a vehicle performs an illegal action while the car is in motion. The driver of the vehicle does not have to be the car's owner to be charged with the illegal action. The driver, not necessarily the owner, may be prosecuted in a court of law. In opposition, a nonmoving violation is an illegal action against the car's owner and includes occurrences such as parking illegally, lack of insurance or registration, or an equipment violation.
Moving violations include, but are not limited to, speeding, running a stop sign or red light, not stopping for a school bus or pedestrian and crossing the center line of the street. Serious offenses include driving while intoxicated or on drugs, road rage, street racing or vehicular homicide.
Depending on the seriousness and frequency of the moving violation, a driver may have her license suspended or permanently revoked. Suspensions can range from a few weeks to several years.
Fines for moving violations in the United States vary by states, ranging from as low as $25 to $1,000 or more. Court costs are in addition to any fines imposed and vary widely. Frequency of violations can cause an increase in fines.
Jurisdictions throughout the United States have different rules and consequences for moving violations. Law officers may be very aggressive in one city and very lenient in the next city.
To avoid a moving violation, the driver should be aware of and follow posted speed limits and traffic signs. Not only is driving while drinking or under the influence of drugs illegal, it also may cost the life of a friend or stranger.
A person with a moving violation may have to pay higher car insurance rates and often will have points assessed on his license. An accumulation of a certain number of points might result in suspension of the driving license, required defensive driving classes or more fines.
A vehicle is often defined as an automobile, motorcycle, truck or any other vehicle. A bicycle may also be included in this definition, since it is considered a vehicle when operated on a street, road or other area designated for motor vehicles.
