Motor Vehicle Legal Terms

The laws governing motor vehicles differ widely from one state to the next. In general the law assumes the vehicle is operated with its owner's permission.

The mortality rates are influenced by laws that increase penalties and make revocation automatic or make social hosts targets. Mandatory education, alcohol treatment and interlock devices all have little effect.

Legal Definitions

The laws that govern the legal definitions of motor vehicle accident vehicles are defined and determined at the state level. The federal definitions for national fuel economy standards and licensing standards for commercial vehicle drivers are primarily administrative in nature and do not apply to states that decide their own classifications for registration. These classifications for vehicle registrations determine whether a motorist must get a license specific to operate certain kinds of vehicles.

These state laws define terms like "automobile," "light trucks" and many more. For instance light truck, it is any vehicle with a capacity of carrying less than 7,500 pounds. This excludes pickup trucks and panel delivery trucks. Also, it excludes any combination of vehicles specifically designed to transport passengers or property within its own structure, including manufactured homes and trailers.

A wheel chair is a device equipped with wheels, typically used by people who are physically disabled and cannot move around as pedestrians. A moped is an automobile with only three wheels on the ground and that can travel at a maximum speed of 35 miles per hour.

A pedal-driven vehicle, is one that is driven by the operator who sits on the top of it. The person who has the legal title to a vehicle is called its owner.

Traffic Laws

Typically, each state has its own set of huntington beach motor vehicle accident lawyer vehicle laws which deal with everything from the registration process to the insurance requirements. The statutes also cover the types of vehicles covered by law. Some of these laws are akin across states, however others are different. There are laws that restrict the number of people who can be transported by pedicab. There are laws that prohibit reckless driving on certain kinds of roads, like parking areas.

If you are in violation of these laws, you may be fined and punished. The penalties can range from having your driver's license suspended to having to attend the traffic school.

One of the most important laws in a state regarding vehicles is the one that governs the speed limits set on roadways. In New York, for example it says that the speed limit for commercial vehicle is the same as that of an automobile.

The law also sets out the definition of a "motor vehicle." This includes every description of a carriage or device that is driven by mechanical energy and used on a public highway for the transportation of people or property, or for any other commercial purpose. The law does not include trailers, coaches and semitrailers, all-terrain and snowmobiles and motorized mobility assist devices for people with disabilities, and self-propelled corn and harvesting machines for hay.

Insurance

A motor vehicle policy is a contract that covers the insurer from financial loss due to liability for bodily injury, death, or property damage caused by a third-party arising from maintaining, operating or the use of an insured vehicle. It can also cover physical damage to the vehicle. It must include the name and address of the named insured as in addition to the coverage offered by the policy. It also contains the amount of premium paid and the time frame for the duration of the policy in force, as well as the limits of liability. It must also include an agreement or endorsement stating that the insurance offered is in line with the coverage that is specifically outlined for bodily injury, death or property damage.

The wording in a lakewood motor vehicle accident lawyer vehicle insurance policy can be confusing for the average person, and Duncanville law firms typically suggest that individuals read the policy sample to fully be aware of the terms. One of the biggest confusions is the definition of "motor vehicle". The phrase is found in a number of statutes that govern the registration of vehicles and financial accountability laws.

Examples of coverages offered under an insurance policy are commercial auto coverage for automobiles used for commercial or business establishments or activities, employment, or occupations conducted for profit, automobile liability insurance, which includes PIP, MP, and huntington beach motor vehicle Accident Lawyer uninsured and underinsured driver coverage (UM/UIM). This type of insurance is required by a number of states.

Permissive Use

It is important to know how insurance coverage works in the event that someone other than the named insured or a family member drives your car and causes an accident. This is known as permissive usage and the specific terms of your policy may differ however, in general, most large car insurance providers offer this type of coverage.

However, it is important to note that a person driving your car must have your permission for you to be held liable for any damage. Permission can be either implied or explicit and does not typically require writing.

In determining whether there is implied permission, courts look at the relationship between the two parties; their previous conduct and the use of the vehicle, as well as the circumstances surrounding the specific driving event. A judge will also consider whether any restrictions were placed on the scope of permissive usage and if any minor deviations from the time, location and usage limitations of an initial permission would violate of these restrictions.

Be aware that adding an additional driver to your auto insurance policy is likely to increase your premium, because the vehicle becomes more difficult to insure. Therefore, you must think about your options carefully before lending your car to other people. Contact Jerry to get a free insurance quote and discuss the policy's terms.