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Is a moving violation a crime?

I’m pretty new to driving, and last week I got pulled over for speeding 10 mph over the limit and got my first ticket. I’m a little worried about this. I know it’s against the law to speed, but is a moving violation a crime?

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Mary Alice Morris · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
While it’s certainly best to avoid speeding tickets if at all possible, a moving violation is not classified as an actual crime. If every speeding ticket were treated as a criminal offense, our criminal justice system would be totally overwhelmed!
In most states, most moving violations are considered minor infractions. They’re processed in a traffic court that is separate from criminal court, and usually don’t have serious legal implications for the offender. The consequences you could face for a minor moving violation include:
  • Fines and legal fees
  • Points on your driving record
  • Higher car insurance premiums
More serious or repeated traffic violations, which still fall short of criminal offense, might leave you facing the following:
  • License suspension or revocation
  • Vehicle impoundment
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Severe fines and legal fees
There are also more serious driving offenses that will be referred to criminal court. These are considered criminal offenses rather than moving violations and include:
  • Driving while intoxicated (
    DUI
    )
  • Vehicular manslaughter or homicide
  • Reckless driving
  • Vehicular assault
Unfortunately, getting even just one speeding ticket can raise your insurance prices—but there are steps you can take to
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