What If I Received a Traffic Violation and Am Moving to Another State?

Any moving traffic violation is something that needs to be dealt with. There can be serious consequences for ignoring a citation regardless of where the infraction occurred and where you reside. 

Moving Traffic Violations

A moving traffic violation is any citation you receive while in a motor vehicle while in motion. The repercussions of these will vary by state and the seriousness of the violation. Consequences can be anywhere from a small fine to jail time and suspension of your license. Moving traffic violations are different from other infractions such as parking tickets or administrative discrepancies such as expired tags. 

Consequences of Ignoring a Moving Traffic Violation

Many people have attempted to avoid paying for a citation or responding appropriately when they are moving from the jurisdiction or to another state. This is ill advised. Most states in the United States are bonded and have reciprocity agreements. This means that the information can be transferred across state lines, they share the systems which show violations and warrants. If, for instance you have a moving violation in one state which you do not address and then attempt to get or renew your license in the state you have moved to you will not only be unable to renew or obtain your new license, but there may be serious consequences.  Some of these consequences will not be as weighty, for instance you may have to pay the ticket and on top of that another fine. However, you could be arrested and sit in jail until they determine the amount of your previous ticket and fine. If you have a higher offense against you, like you skipped the trial for your moving violation there will be a warrant issued for your arrest, once you are discovered in your new state you will be arrested and taken to jail pending a trial, which you could be extradicted back to your previous state for. 

An important thing to remember is paying for the initial violation is much easier than being caught at a later date.

Getting Legal Help

If you feel you were unfairly issued the moving violation, do not ignore it. You have other options, contact a local attorney in the jurisdiction where the citation was received. They will be able to assist you with fighting the citation. Even if you are moving to a different state, the trial will take place where the citation was received, so it is important to obtain a lawyer in that state as they will be familiar with the local laws.