How Much is a Moving Violation Ticket?
A moving violation ticket is a summons issued by a law enforcement officer to a driver who has committed a traffic infraction while operating a vehicle on a public road or highway. The cost of a moving violation ticket varies widely depending on the type of violation, the state or jurisdiction where it was issued, and the severity of the offense.
How Much is a Moving Violation Ticket?
Federal Offenses
The cost of a moving violation ticket for federal offenses can range from $50 to $5,000. These offenses include:
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit on a federal highway. Fines can range from $50 to $5,000.
• Reckless Driving: Driving in a reckless or wanton manner, including speeding, tailgating, or weaving in and out of lanes. Fines can range from $100 to $1,000.
• Illegal Lane Changes: Changing lanes without checking blind spots, cutting off other drivers, or failing to signal when changing lanes. Fines can range from $100 to $500.
State Offenses
The cost of a moving violation ticket for state offenses varies by state and can range from $10 to $2,000. These offenses include:
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit on a state highway. Fines can range from $10 to $1,000.
• Failure to Yield: Failing to yield the right of way to another driver or pedestrian. Fines can range from $20 to $500.
• Improper Passing: Passing another vehicle on the right side or failing to pass a vehicle on the left side when it is safe to do so. Fines can range from $50 to $1,000.
Local Offenses
The cost of a moving violation ticket for local offenses varies by city or municipality and can range from $5 to $1,000. These offenses include:
• Parking Violations: Parking in a restricted area, parking on the sidewalk, or failing to display a parking permit. Fines can range from $5 to $500.
• Stopping in a No-Stopping Zone: Stopping in a zone where stopping is prohibited, such as at a red light or in a crosswalk. Fines can range from $20 to $500.
Additional Fees and Fines
In addition to the base fine, some moving violation tickets may also include additional fees and fines, such as:
• Court Costs: Fees charged by the court to process the ticket, which can range from $10 to $50.
• Fine Increases: Fines may be increased if the violation is committed in a school zone, construction zone, or other designated area.
• Points Assessments: Points may be assessed against the driver’s license for certain violations, which can lead to license suspension or revocation.
• Insurance Rate Increases: Insurance rates may increase if the driver accumulates too many points or receives multiple moving violation tickets within a short period of time.
Table: Typical Moving Violation Ticket Fines
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Speeding (federal) | $50-$5,000 |
| Reckless Driving (federal) | $100-$1,000 |
| Illegal Lane Changes (federal) | $100-$500 |
| Speeding (state) | $10-$1,000 |
| Failure to Yield (state) | $20-$500 |
| Improper Passing (state) | $50-$1,000 |
| Parking Violations (local) | $5-$500 |
| Stopping in a No-Stopping Zone (local) | $20-$500 |
Conclusion
The cost of a moving violation ticket can vary significantly depending on the type of violation, the state or jurisdiction where it was issued, and the severity of the offense. It is important for drivers to understand the potential consequences of committing a moving violation and to take steps to avoid getting a ticket in the first place. By following the rules of the road and being aware of their surroundings, drivers can help prevent accidents and keep the roads safe for everyone.
