While receiving a traffic ticket may not seem like a major issue, it can result in significant consequences, including higher insurance rates. Please continue reading as we explore how traffic violations can impact your car insurance rates in New Jersey and why connecting with a determined Bergen County Traffic Violations Attorney is in your best interest.
What Constitutes a Traffic Violation?
In New Jersey, a traffic violation or traffic infraction is any act that is prohibited by law while operating a vehicle but is not considered a crime. As such, they can include everything from illegal parking to drunk driving. Although these violations are not considered criminal offenses, they still carry repercussions like steep fines, restitution, demerit points on your driver’s license, license suspension, and even jail time.
Traffic violations are categorized as either moving or non-moving violations. Moving violations are those that occur while the vehicle is in motion, whereas non-moving violations are those that typically occur while the vehicle is stationary or parked. While non-moving violations don’t pose an immediate threat to safety, they can still result in harsh penalties. Some common traffic violations you can incur in New Jersey include:
- Speeding
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Improper passing
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Texting while driving
- Illegal parking
- Having an expired registration or license
- Failing to maintain vehicle equipment
- Driving without insurance
How Do Traffic Violations Affect Insurance Rates?
Traffic violations, especially moving violations like speeding or running a red light, can lead to increased auto insurance rates. When determining insurance premiums, insurance companies will assess the risk of providing coverage for a motorist. Essentially, the higher the perceived risk, the higher your rates will be. If you have a clean driving record with no violations, you will likely receive lower premiums. Insurance providers may consider a history of traffic violations as an indicator of potential future claims, leading to increased costs for the insurer.
Nevertheless, it’s important to understand that the severity of the violation and the frequency of violations will impact the extent of the rate increase. Not every traffic violation will result in an increased premium. Certain infractions like speeding or driving while under the influence (DUI) demonstrate that you are a reckless motorist and that you have a higher chance of being involved in a collision in the future due to your dangerous driving practices. Other violations, such as parking tickets or minor equipment issues, are less likely to significantly impact your insurance rates compared to moving violations. However, failing to address non-moving violations or accumulating multiple tickets can result in rate increases.
Penalties for Cell Phone and Texting Violations in New Jersey
Distracted driving, such as texting while driving, is a serious violation in New Jersey that poses an immense safety risk. If you are issued a ticket for checking your phone or texting behind the wheel, a skilled Bergen County Cell Phone Violations Attorney can help build a strategic defense to have your ticket dropped. Under state law, the legal consequences for cell phone violations increase substantially with prior offenses:
- First offense: Fine between $200 and $400
- Second offense: Fine between $400 and $600
- Third or subsequent offense (within ten years): Fine between $600 and $800, 3 demerit points on your driving record, and a possible license suspension of up to 90 days
Will a Texting and Driving Ticket Impact My New Jersey Insurance Rates?
Texting while driving, or any form of distracted driving for that matter, will dramatically increase the likelihood that you will be involved in an accident, which is why insurance companies will consider you a high-risk driver if you are ticketed for texting while driving. As such, DMV points will be issued against your license, and in the case of a third or subsequent violation, your insurance premiums are likely to dramatically increase. In some instances, your insurance carrier may drop your coverage because you are considered a high-risk driver. As such, it is imperative to protect your record with the assistance of a Bergen County traffic ticket attorney.
Contact an Experienced Bergen County Traffic Violation Attorney
In the unfortunate event that you have received a ticket for a traffic violation, it’s in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney, especially if you are concerned about the impact on your insurance rates. At The Law Office of Carl Spector, we are prepared to help negotiate a reduced charge or even the dismissal of the violation, minimizing the financial consequences. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.