If you recently received a traffic ticket, you may wonder about the difference between moving and non-moving violations. Understanding what you're facing is essential, as it can impact potential penalties and your driving record. In this article, our experienced Charlotte traffic ticket lawyers explain the key differences between these two types of tickets and how consulting with an attorney may be beneficial in your case.
What’s a Moving Violation in North Carolina?
This occurs when a vehicle is in motion, and a driver disobeys our state’s traffic laws. Moving violations typically carry harsher penalties than non-moving violations. Depending on the severity of the offense, you may face fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and, in some cases, even jail time.
Some common examples of moving violations in North Carolina include:
- Speeding. You could get a ticket for driving above the posted limit or too fast for conditions. Penalties may include fines ranging from $10 to $250 or more, depending on your speed and location, and points on your driving record.
- Reckless driving. The police could arrest you under G.S. §20.140 for driving in a manner that shows wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Penalties include fines up to $1,000, up to 60 days in jail, and up to one-year driver's license suspension.
- Running a red light or stop sign. Either one of these actions is considered a moving violation. Penalties typically include a fine of up to $100 and three points on your driving record.
- Improper lane changes. Switching lanes unsafely or without signaling is a serious offense. Penalties usually include a fine of up to $1,000 and two points on your driving record.
- Failure to yield. You could face a fine of up to $100 and three points on your driving record for not yielding the right of way to other vehicles or pedestrians when required.
- Driving while impaired. Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious misdemeanor offense. Penalties include fines, jail time, license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse assessment and treatment.
- Phone use. Sending or reading text messages while driving is illegal in North Carolina and is considered a moving violation. You could be fined $100 and have three points added to your driving record.
Non-Moving Violation Examples
In contrast, these offenses often involve a vehicle that is stationary, parked illegally, or other issues not involving driving. In our state, these include:
- Parking violations. You might be ticketed for leaving your vehicle in a no-parking zone, in a handicapped spot without a permit, or letting your parking meter expire.
- Broken or improper equipment. The police could cite you with a non-moving violation for having a broken taillight or headlight.
- Paperwork violations. Failing to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or a valid driver's license when requested by law enforcement is also considered a non-moving violation.
While these offenses are generally less severe, they can still result in fines and other penalties. Repeated non-moving violations or failure to address a ticket may lead to more serious consequences.
When to Contact Our Charlotte Traffic Ticket Lawyers
There are numerous hidden costs of traffic tickets, so you should always take a citation seriously. Start by contacting Browning & Long for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand all available options so you can make informed decisions about your case. Here are some other benefits of hiring us:
- Protect your driving record. We work diligently to minimize the impact of a ticket on your record, helping you avoid points and potential license suspension.
- Minimize fines and penalties. Another one of our goals is to reduce or eliminate fines and other penalties associated with your violation, saving you money and stress.
- Experienced representation. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide range of traffic tickets and know how to build a strong defense on your behalf. This could help get the citation dismissed or reduced to a less severe violation.
- Avoid increased insurance premiums. By fighting your ticket and keeping your record clean, we help you avoid the increased insurance rates that often follow a violation.
- Save time and hassle. Let us handle the details of your case, appear in court on your behalf, and deal with the legal paperwork and procedures. We may be able to attend your hearings without you needing to be present, so you don’t have to take time off work to go to court.
