Moving violations in New Jersey can be tricky to understand. They range from speeding to running red lights. These offenses can lead to fines, points on your license, and even suspension.
Traffic tickets in New Jersey can have serious consequences if not handled properly. You might face hefty fines, increased insurance rates, or loss of driving privileges. Knowing your rights and options is crucial when dealing with a moving violation.
Knowing different types of moving violations and their penalties can help you make better choices on the road. It can also guide you if you ever find yourself facing a ticket.
This guide will explain the most common moving violations in New Jersey and what to expect if you’re cited for one.
New Jersey has many rules for driving on its roads. Breaking these rules can lead to fines, points on your license, or even jail time.
Types Of Moving Violations in New Jersey
Moving violations happen when your car is in motion. Speeding is one of the most common. You can get a ticket for exceeding the posted limit or driving too fast for road conditions.
Reckless driving is another serious offense. It includes weaving in and out of traffic or racing other cars. Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs also counts as reckless driving.
Other moving violations include:
- Not yielding to pedestrians or emergency vehicles
- Passing a school bus when its lights are flashing
- Making illegal turns or U-turns
- Not using turn signals
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Penalty Points For Moving Violations in New Jersey
New Jersey uses a point system to track driving violations. Each offense adds points to your license. The more serious the violation, the more points you get.
Here are some common violations and their point values:
- Speeding 1-14 mph over limit: 2 points
- Speeding 15-29 mph over the limit: 4 points
- Using a cell phone while driving: 3 points (for 3rd offense)
- Driving the wrong way on a one-way street: 2 points
When you rack up too many points, you face penalties. At 6 points, you pay a surcharge. At 12 points, your license gets suspended.
To avoid suspension, you can:
- Take a defensive driving course
- Wait for points to expire (after 3 years)
- Drive safely to earn point reductions
If your license does get suspended, you’ll need to:
- Pay a restoration fee
- Serve your suspension time
- Complete any required courses
New Jersey also has a Probationary Driver Program for new drivers. You must take a driver improvement course if you get 4 or more points in your first year.
| Type of Violation | Penalty Points on License |
|---|---|
| Failure to stop at traffic light | 2 |
| Failure to observe traffic signals | 2 |
| Driving the wrong way on a one-way street | 2 |
| Blocking traffic by driving at low speeds | 2 |
| Exceeding maximum speed 1-14 mph over limit | 2 |
| Failure to stop at a traffic light | 2 |
| Failure to stop at a traffic light | 2 |
| Tailgating (following too closely) | 5 |
| Unsafe lane change | 2 |
| Improper passing | 4 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) | 8 |
| Distracted driving (e.g., texting or using a handheld device) | 3 |
| Driving without headlights when required | 2 |
| Failure to signal lane changes or turns | 2 |
| Failure to yield to emergency vehicles | 2 |
| Driving with a suspended or revoked license | 2 |
| Driving through a railroad crossing while signals are active | 2 |
| Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights | 5 |
| Leaving the scene of an accident | 2 |
| Excessive acceleration or speeding in a construction zone | 2 |
Fines For Moving Violations
Here’s a quick look at some common moving violations and their costs:
| Type of Violation | Fine Range | Additional Penalties/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Failure to stop at traffic light | $200 – $500 | Court appearance required. |
| Failure to observe traffic signals | $85 – $200 | Immediate fine payment. |
| Driving the wrong way on a one-way street | $200 – $500 | Court appearance within 30 days. |
| Blocking traffic by driving at low speeds | $85 – $200 | Fine due within 30 days. |
| Exceeding maximum speed 1-14 mph over limit | $85 – $95 | Payment due within 30 days. |
| Failure to stop at a traffic light | $85 – $200 | Fine due within 30 days. |
| Failure to stop at a stop sign | $85 – $200 | Fine due within 30 days. |
| Tailgating (following too closely) | $85 – $200 | Payment required within 30 days. |
| Unsafe lane change | $85 – $200 | Immediate payment or court appearance. |
| Improper passing | $85 – $200 | Fine payment due within 30 days. |
| Reckless driving | $50 – $200 | First offense: Court appearance within 30 days. |
| Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) | $250 – $400 | First offense: License suspension for 3 months. |
| Distracted driving (e.g., texting or using a handheld device) | $200 – $400 | Fine and possible court appearance within 30 days. |
| Driving without headlights when required | $85 – $200 | Failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalk |
| Failure to signal lane changes or turns | $85 – $200 | Fine due within 30 days. |
| Failure to yield to emergency vehicles | $85 – $200 | Payment required within 30 days. |
| Driving with a suspended or revoked license | $500 – $1,000 | License suspension extended; court appearance. |
| Driving through a railroad crossing while signals are active | $85 – $200 | Payment due within 30 days. |
| Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights | $85 – $200 | Court appearance required. |
| Leaving the scene of an accident | $85 – $200 | Court appearance required. |
| Excessive acceleration or speeding in a construction zone | $85 – $200 | Fine doubled in some areas; payment within 30 days. |
These fines are just the start. You may face extra costs like court fees and surcharges. Surcharges are extra fees you pay on top of the fine for certain violations.
Some violations carry higher fines. For example, if you’re caught texting while driving, you could pay up to $400 for a first offense. Repeated offenses can cost even more.
Parking tickets are a different story. They’re not moving violations, but they can still hurt your wallet if unpaid.
Types Of Non-Moving Violations
Non-moving violations occur when your car isn’t in motion. Parking illegally is a common example. This could mean parking in a no-parking zone or staying too long at a meter.
Equipment issues can also lead to tickets. These include:
- Broken headlights or taillights
- Expired registration or inspection stickers
- Cracked windshield
- Loud exhaust
Not wearing a seatbelt is another non-moving violation. Even if you’re parked, you can get a ticket for this.
- Renew Driver’s License
- Pay NJ Tickets Online at NJMCdirect.Com
It is against the law in New Jersey to leave your car running while unattended, even if you’re just warming it up in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Jersey drivers often wonder about license points and moving violations. Let’s address some common questions about checking points, their impact, and how long they stay on your record.
How can I check the points on my NJ driver’s license?
You can check your license points online through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website. Log in to your account and view your driving record. You can also request a copy of your driving record by mail or in person at an MVC office.
What does having 4 points on my New Jersey driver’s license mean?
Four points on your license means you’ve gotten tickets for minor traffic offenses. This can lead to higher car insurance rates. You’ll have to pay a surcharge if you get 6 points in 3 years. At 12 points, your license could be suspended.
How long do points from moving violations stick on my New Jersey driving record?
Points from moving violations usually stay on your NJ driving record for 3 years. After that, they drop off. But some serious offenses can stay longer. You can remove up to 3 points by taking a defensive driving course once every 5 years.
Conclusion
Getting a traffic ticket in New Jersey can be frustrating. You have options to deal with it. You can pay the fine, go to court, or hire a lawyer to help.
Paying the fine is quick but adds points to your license. Going to court takes time but allows you to explain your side. A lawyer can sometimes reduce the charge.
Remember that traffic violations in NJ can lead to fines, license suspension, or even jail time. It’s smart to take them seriously.
If you decide to fight a ticket, be prepared. Bring any evidence that supports your case. This could include photos, witness statements, or car repair records.
You can often get legal advice about your specific situation. Many lawyers offer free consultations for traffic cases.
Don’t ignore a ticket. That can make things worse. Face it head-on and choose the best path for you.
