Glossary
Moving violation
A traffic offense committed while a vehicle is in motion, such as speeding or running a red light, that can add license points and raise premiums.
Also called: moving traffic violation, traffic ticket
A moving violation is a traffic offense committed while the vehicle is being driven: speeding, running a red light or stop sign, failing to yield, following too closely, improper lane changes, reckless driving and DUI. Non-moving violations, such as parking tickets or expired registration, generally do not affect car insurance.
Moving violations reach your insurer through your motor vehicle report, which insurers check when you apply and often again at renewal. Most insurers sort them into minor violations, such as a typical speeding ticket, and major violations, such as DUI, reckless driving or driving on a suspended license, and add a surcharge for each one, usually for three to five years. A driver paying $1,400 a year who gets a 20% surcharge for a speeding ticket would pay about $1,680 until it drops off (hypothetical figures).
How much a ticket costs depends on your state's point system and your insurer's rating plan, and both vary widely. Some states let drivers take a defensive driving course to dismiss a ticket or reduce points, which may keep it from counting against you. Contesting a ticket you believe is wrong can be worth it for the same reason. See how a speeding ticket affects your car insurance.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026