Illegal movements are moving violations that could cause potential physical harm to people and/or property. The most common illegal movements are a “failure to” do something, such as failing to signal a turn or failing to stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Additional common moving violations are listed below:
Currently, 44 states have laws against texting while driving. Of the 6 states without an all-driver texting ban, 4 prohibit text messaging by novice drivers and 3 prohibit school bus drivers from texting while driving. Penalties for the violation of texting while driving vary state to state and usually result in fines (ranging from $20 to $10,000), points added to your driver’s license, and in more severe situations can lead to incarceration. The Official US Government Website for Distracted Driving provides the most current information on state laws.
An assault by the operator or passenger of one motor vehicle on the operator of another motor vehicle, resulting from an incident that occurred on the roadway. Frequent examples of road rage include: following too closely, using the horn or flashing headlights excessively, speeding or slowing down dramatically to attempt to teach another driver a “lesson” and weaving in and out of traffic. Road rage can lead to assault and/or harassment, which can result in an arrest and potential jail time. Aggressive driving often coincides with Driving Under the Influence (DUI).
The consequences of being cited for a moving violation include traffic tickets, fines, and potential additional points on your driver’s license. It is in your best interest to obtain legal assistance to avoid or reduce potential tickets, fines, and points. Of the states that have point allocations, each state’s point system is different. For example, in Arkansas, where failure to wear a seat belt can result in your license being suspended. For a link to point allocations for your specific state, please see our resources page.
Speeding tickets can greatly affect your driving privileges and in many cases can be expensive. Speeding violation laws vary by state and can result in fines, points added to your driver’s license, driver’s license suspension or revocation, increased auto insurance premiums, and/or possible jail time.
It is advisable that you do not plead guilty to a ticket that is issued to you immediately after a car accident, and that you seek the advice of a skilled attorney immediately in order to avoid potential fines and penalties. This is because a guilty plea can be used against you during court proceedings, should anyone who was involved in the accident try and sue you.