Motor Vehicle Legal Terms

The laws for motor vehicles vary from state to state. In general, laws assume that the vehicle was used by the owner's permission.

Laws that increase penalties, making revocation automatic or the targeting of social hosts have mixed impacts on mortality rates. Mandatory education, treatment for alcohol, and interlock devices have small effects.

Legal Definitions

The laws governing motor vehicle legal terms are formulated and determined at the state level. The various federal definitions used for national requirements for fuel economy and licensing standards for commercial vehicle drivers serve mainly for administrative purposes, and do not apply to states determining their own registration classifications. These classifications for vehicles determine whether a driver requires special licenses to operate certain types vehicles.

These laws define terms such as "automobile," "light trucks" and many more. For instance the definition of light truck is any motor vehicle that has an estimated carrying capacity of less than 7,500 pounds. This excludes panel delivery trucks as well as pickup trucks. It also excludes any combination of vehicles that is specifically designed to transport property or passengers wholly within its own structure, like trailers and manufactured homes.

A wheel chair conveyance is a machine with wheels. It is typically used by those who, due to physical disability cannot walk around as pedestrians. A moped is an automobile with only three wheels on the ground, and that can travel at the speed of 35 miles per hour.

A pedicab is a type of vehicle that is propelled by a driver who is sitting on it. The owner of a vehicle is the one who owns the legal title.

Traffic Laws

Each state has its own set shoreline motor Vehicle accident lawyer vehicle laws that cover everything from registration process to the insurance requirements. These statutes also address the kinds of vehicles that are protected by law. Some of these laws are akin across states, however others vary considerably. There are laws that restrict the number of passengers that can be carried in a pedicab. There are laws that ban reckless driving on certain kinds of roads, like parking spaces.

If you violate these laws, you can be punished with a fine and/or a penalty. Penalties could include having your license revoked or having to go to traffic school.

One of the most important laws in a particular state regarding automobiles is that it governs the speed limits that are placed on roads. In New York, for example, it states that the speed limit for commercial vehicle is similar to that of an automobile.

It also defines a "motor vehicle" as any vehicle or other device that is driven mechanically and used on roads to move property or people or for commercial purposes. The law does not include trailers, coaches, semitrailers, all-terrain and snowmobile vehicles, motorized mobility assist devices for people with disabilities, and self-propelled corn and hay harvesting machines.

Insurance

A napa motor vehicle accident law firm vehicle insurance policy is a contract that protects the insurer against financial losses caused by injuries to the body or death or property damage caused by a third party due to the running, maintaining, ownership, or use of an insured vehicle. It can also cover physical damage to the vehicle. It must include the name and address the named insured as along with the coverage provided by the policy. It also contains the amount of premium paid, the period for which the policy is in effect, and the limits of responsibility. It should also include an endorsement or agreement stating that the insurance is in accordance with the coverage specified as to bodily injury, death or property damage.

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

Examples of coverage under the motor vehicle policy are commercial auto insurance that covers vehicles used for commercial, business, activities, employment or occupations which are carried out for profit automobile liability insurance that includes MP and PIP, and underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). A majority of states require drivers to carry this kind of insurance.

Permissive Use

If someone other than a named insured or family member drives your car and gets involved in an accident, it is crucial to know the way insurance coverage works in these instances. This is known as permissive utilization. The specifics of your insurance policy might vary, but a majority of major automobile insurers provide this kind of coverage.

However, it is crucial to note that a person driving your vehicle must have your permission for you to be held liable for damages. Permission may be expressed or implied, and does not usually require writing.

In determining whether there is implied permission, courts examine the relationship between the parties; their prior conduct and the use of the vehicle; and the circumstances surrounding the particular driving event that is in question. A court will also look at if any restrictions were placed on the permissive usage and if an unintentional deviation from the time, place and use limitations of the original permission would violate the restrictions.

Be aware that adding the driver to your auto insurance policy will increase your premium, as the vehicle becomes more risky to cover. It is crucial to think about your options before lending your car to other people. Contact Jerry for a free insurance quote and discuss your policy terms.