Understanding New Mexico Traffic Tickets and Violations

Written by Liam Hoch

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Driving in New Mexico can be a thrilling experience, but it’s crucial to be aware of the traffic laws and potential consequences of violations. Understanding the types of traffic tickets, consequences, and options for responding to them can save you time, money, and stress. This comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information to navigate traffic tickets New Mexico’s traffic laws and regulations, so buckle up and keep reading about traffic tickets New Mexico!

Short Summary

Types of Traffic Tickets in New Mexico

In New Mexico, traffic violations can be broadly classified into three categories: speeding tickets, moving violations, and non-moving violations. A speeding violation is one of the most common traffic offenses committed in the state, along with failing to signal, driving under the influence, and fleeing the scene of an accident.

Understanding the types of traffic tickets and their corresponding penalties can help you avoid making costly mistakes on the road. Knowing the different types of violations and their consequences can help you make informed decisions when driving.

Speeding Tickets

Speeding violations in New Mexico are categorized into two types. The first type is exceeding an “absolute speed limit” and the second type is driving in violation of the “basic speeding law”. The basic speed law mandates that drivers must exercise due care and regulate their speed to avoid collisions with persons or vehicles on or entering the highway.

Absolute speed limits are the maximum speed permissible by law on a roadway, unless otherwise indicated. Consequences for speeding tickets vary depending on the type of violation and may include fines and points on your driving record.

Moving Violations

Moving violations occur when a driver breaches traffic regulations while the vehicle is in motion, which can result in a traffic offense. New Mexico has several common offenses when it comes to driving. These include speeding, running a red light, and making an illegal turn.

Consequences of moving violations can range from fines and penalties assessments to driving record points and increased insurance premiums.

Non-Moving Violations

Non-moving violations, on the other hand, take place while the vehicle is stationary or otherwise not in motion. Examples of non-moving violations in New Mexico include inattentive driving, driving without a seatbelt, and using a cell phone while driving.

Unlike moving violations, non-moving violations are not reported to the Department of Licensing or insurance companies and are treated differently by the court and the Department of Licensing.

Consequences of Traffic Violations in New Mexico

A speed limit sign along a highway in New Mexico.

Traffic violations can have far-reaching consequences, including:

It’s crucial to be aware of the potential consequences of traffic violations and take steps to avoid them.

Fines and Penalty Assessments

Fines for traffic violations in New Mexico differ depending on the specific violation. For instance, speeding tickets can range from $25 for exceeding the speed limit by 1-10 mph to $200 for exceeding the speed limit by 26-30 mph.

In addition to fines, penalties may be imposed, which are determined by the court and vary depending on the type of traffic violation. Late fees may also be levied if the payment for a traffic violation is not made in a timely manner.

Driving Record Points
A speeding ticket in New Mexico will cost you approximately $90-$150, depending on the severity of the offense.

What happens if you don’t pay a speeding ticket in New Mexico?

If you don’t pay your New Mexico speeding ticket, you may have a warrant out for your arrest and your driver’s license could be suspended.

What are the most common traffic violations in New Mexico?

Speeding, failing to signal, driving under the influence, and fleeing the scene of an accident are some of the most frequent traffic violations committed in New Mexico.

These violations can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It is important for drivers to be aware of the laws and regulations in their state and to obey them at all times.

Drivers should drive safely.

Can I remove a traffic violation from my driving record in New Mexico?

It is possible to remove a traffic violation from your driving record in New Mexico through a defensive driving course or expungement, depending on the type of violation and eligibility.

For defensive driving courses, the court may allow you to take a course to reduce or dismiss the violation. The course must be approved by the court and taken within a certain time frame.

Different States Speeding Ticket

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