Cars

A Guide to Seat Belt Laws in the United States

There are safety belt laws in all states in the United States with the exception of New Hampshire. In certain states, these seat belt laws may only cover front-seat occupants, but seat belt laws in 26 states as well as the District of Columbia cover both front and rear-seat occupants.

Seat belt laws are separated into two distinct categories Seat Belt Laws: primary and secondary seat belt laws. Primary seat belt laws allow police offers and other law enforcement officers to give a driver a ticket solely due to a seat belt law violation, without having any other traffic offense occur. Secondary seat belt laws only allow police officers and law enforcement officers to issue a traffic ticket for not following seat belt laws only if there is another traffic infraction that is citable.

Primary seat belt laws are used in 32 states as well as the American Samoa, District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rick, the Virgin Islands, and the Mariana Islands. 17 states currently have secondary seat belt laws. Many of these laws are applicable to either younger drivers or young passengers.

Seat belt laws can have strong implications in civil suits. Currently, 16 states allow the seat belt defense, which can result in reduced damages collected by the victim of a crash if the individual failed to properly use his or her seat belt. These states include Arizona, Alaska, Colorado, California, Florida, Iowa, Missouri, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, New Jersey, Oregon, Ohio, West Virginia and finally Wisconsin. This reduction only allowed for any injuries that could have been prevented by wearing a seat belt. In certain states, the reduction cannot exceed set percentages of the total damages.

Child Seat Belt Laws

Unlike adult seat belt laws, which may or may not exist on a state to state basis, every single state as well as the District of Columbia has child seat belt laws and restraint laws. Child seat belts laws require all children to travel in vehicles with approved child restraint devices. Some child seat belt laws may allow or require older children to just use adult seat belts. The ages at which seat belts can be rather than child restraints varies between states. Young children are usually covered by the state’s child restraint laws, while safety belt laws will cover adults and older children.

Because the enforcement and fines of seat belt laws differ from child restraint laws, you must know which law is being broken when a child is not properly restrained. Most child restraint laws are mainly primary seat belt laws, meaning the police can stop a vehicle solely due to child restraint violations. Other states, such as Nebraska and Ohio, place some children under the secondary enforcement law, meaning that police need to have an additional reason to stop the vehicle.

Ideally, all children and infants should be covered by child restraint laws or safety belt laws or both. But the differences in the way these laws in various states are phrased can result in many occupants, particularly children, not being by either law. Because of this, lawmakers have eliminated many of these gaps by amending the seat belt laws and child restraint.

Seat Belt Laws by State

Because laws vary by state, it is important to know the specific seat belt laws and fines for your specific state. The following quickly describes the type whether the state has primary or secondary seat belt laws, what ages they are applicable to, and what fines exist for failure to comply.

• Alabama Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 15 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Alaska Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $15 ($25 actual).

• Arizona Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 5 and older in front seats and ages 5-15 in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $10 ($37.20 actual).

• Arkansas Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 15 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• California Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $20 ($88 actual) $50 second offense ($190 actual).

• Colorado Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement 4, applicable for all front seats and everyone under the age of 16 all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $71.

• Connecticut Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 7 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $92.

• Delaware Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Florida Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for 6 and older years in front seat and 6 through 17 years in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $30.

• Georgia Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 6-17 in all seats and ages 18 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $15.

• Hawaii Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 8-17 in all seats and ages 18 and older in front seat, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $45 ($92 actual).

• Idaho Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 7 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $10 ($51.50 actual).

• Illinois Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25 ($60 actual or $95 if selecting traffic school).

• Indiana Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Iowa Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 11 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $50 ($127.50 actual).

• Kansas Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 14-17 in all seats and ages 18 and older in front seat, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $30.

• Kentucky Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for those more than 40 inches tall in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Louisiana Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 13 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Maine Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $70 for the 1st offence, $160 for second offense, and up to $310 for the 3rd offense

• Maryland Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Massachusetts Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 12 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Michigan Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 4 and older in front seats and ages 4-15 in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Minnesota Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for anyone who is not covered by child passenger safety law in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Mississippi Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 4-7 in all seats and ages 8 and older in front seat, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Missouri Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $10.

• Montana Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 6 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $20.

• Nebraska Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Nevada Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 6 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• New Hampshire Seat Belt Laws: Primary for children only, applicable for ages 17 and under in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $50.

• New Jersey Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in front seat and ages 8-17 in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $50 per person.

• New Mexico Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $252.

• New York Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $50 ($135 actual after surcharges).

• North Carolina Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement1, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25 ($100 actual after taking into consideration court costs).

• North Dakota Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $20 (actual $100.50).

• Ohio Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 15 and older in front seat and ages 4-14 in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $30.

• Oklahoma Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 13 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $20.

• Oregon Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $90.

• Pennsylvania Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 8 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $10.

• Rhode Island Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 13 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $75.

• South Carolina Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 6 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• South Dakota Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 18 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $20.

• Tennessee Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $50.

• Texas Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 8 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $200

• Utah Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $45.

• Vermont Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Virginia Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement 4, applicable for ages 18 and older in front seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25

• Washington Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 16 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $124.

• West Virginia Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 8 and older in front seats and 8-17 in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25.

• Wisconsin Seat Belt Laws: Primary enforcement, applicable for ages 8 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $10.

• Wyoming Seat Belt Laws: Secondary enforcement, applicable for ages 9 and older in all seats, the maximum fine for a first time offense is $25

California License Plates

California has required license plates since 1905. Since then, many variations have been made. The current standard sized California license plate is 12” by 6” for automobiles and 8” by 5” for motorcycles. In order for California license plates to be valid, they must have the appropriate tabs or stickers adhered to them.

Standard California license plates are issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles when you purchase a new vehicle, replace lost, mutilated, or stolen California license plates, or turn in your special interest license plates. California license plates are also used to identify the type of vehicle registration you have (passenger, trailer, commercial etc.) and also provide law enforcement a way of locating the owner through the records from the DMV. Standard California license plates may be replaced through submission of an application for duplicate plates or by going to a DMV office.

Special Interest California License Plates

If you want to personalize you car, you can get a special interest California license plate. Some special interest California license plates are available for automobiles, trailers, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. Special interest plates can be ordered in standard numbering or sequential order, or they can be personalized as well. You can order nearly all special interest California license plates online through the Department of Motor Vehicles or complete Form REG 17, a Special Interest License Plate Application form, and mail the application to the address found on the bottom of form REG 17.

Colorado License Plates

The Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles requires that all motor vehicles display valid Colorado license plates. The state of Colorado has both special and standard plates available. Many of these styles can be personalized. The following plates can be personalized:

• Regular Plates

•Alumni Plates

• Group Special Plates

• Designer Plates

• Motorcycle Plates

• Other Plates

Personalized Designer and Regular Colorado License Plates

Personalized Colorado license plate configuration must have at least two positions and cannot exceed seven. Depending on your application, there may be additional fees are before your personalized plate application is approved. Afterwards, there may also be fees issued each year thereafter upon renewal of your personalized Colorado License Plates. Applicants who have their applications approved will receive a billing letter with further instructions. Payments for your Colorado license plates should not be sent with your initial application.

In order to apply for personalized plates, you need to fill out Form DR 2810, or the Personalized License Plate Application. If you need to replace your personalized forms, you must use Form DR 2204, the Personalized Plate Replacement form. In order to personalize your plates, you must fulfill the following qualifications:

• The only characters that are allowed on personalized Colorado license plates are the uppercase English alphabet, English numbers excluding zero, dashes, blank spaces, and periods.

• You can only have seven characters (6 for motorcycle) including blanks, periods, and dashes. You must have at least 5 characters if they are all numbers, or two for any other plates.

Connecticut License Plates

There are many different types of Connecticut license plates, from those that give special parking privileges, such as license plates for disabled drivers, to personalized vanity plates that let you to express yourself with your car.

Personalized Connecticut License Plates

Connecticut’s Department of Motor Vehicles website currently allows you to search through passenger plates online to see if the plate you want is available. You can obtain personalized Connecticut license plates for the following types of registration: passenger, commercial, motorcycle, combination, camper trailer, and camper. The same Connecticut license plate number can be used in each of these registration types. However, you can apply only for personalized Connecticut license plates in the same registration type that your vehicle falls under.

For personalized plates, you can have between 1 and 6 letters, with a small dot between letters, 1 through 6 numbers, with a dot between each of the numbers, or different combinations of both letters and numbers.

In order to apply, you must fill out two copies of Form M-22, the Special Order Plate Application, for your vehicle that is currently registered in Connecticut. If you are using the standard background, you must pay a $90 fee with your application. Special plate backgrounds cost $135. There may be additional fees depending on the plate you choose. Once you fill out the application you can mail it to the DMV Special plate unit, whose address is found on the form.

Wisconsin Vehicle Registration

Wisconsin Vehicle Registration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you own a vehicle in Wisconsin, you need to register it with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to comply with state laws. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the process of registering your vehicle in Wisconsin.

Registration Requirements

The following vehicles require registration in Wisconsin:

– Passenger cars
– Trucks
– Motorcycles
– Trailers
– Recreational vehicles
– Boats

To register your vehicle, you will need:

– Proof of ownership (title or registration certificate)
– Wisconsin driver’s license or state-issued ID
– Wisconsin emissions inspection certificate (if applicable)
– Application for Title and License
– Payment for registration fees and taxes
– Proof of insurance

Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to registering your vehicle in Wisconsin:

1. Obtain a title for your vehicle.

If your vehicle is new or was previously titled in another state, you’ll need to obtain a Wisconsin title. You can do this by visiting a local DMV office.

2. Obtain Wisconsin insurance.

You’ll need to provide proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. Wisconsin requires minimum liability insurance of 25/50/10.

3. Obtain a Wisconsin emissions inspection (if applicable).

If your vehicle is over a certain age or located in a specific county, it may require a Wisconsin emissions inspection before it can be registered. Check with your local DMV office to see if your vehicle requires an inspection.

4. Complete the Application for Title and License.

The application is available on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website or at a local DMV office.

5. Submit your application and fees.

You can submit your application and fees in person at a local DMV office.

6. Receive your registration and license plates.

After your application is approved, you will receive a registration certificate and license plates. Place the license plates on the front and back of your vehicle.

Registration Fees

Wisconsin registration fees vary based on the type of vehicle you own. Passenger cars have a base fee of $85.30 for one year. Additional fees may apply for vehicles over specific weights and ages.

Other fees may apply, such as a late fee if you fail to register your vehicle by the expiration date.

Conclusion

Registering your vehicle in Wisconsin is necessary to comply with state laws. By following the registration requirements outlined in this article, you can easily register your vehicle and avoid fines or penalties. Remember to keep your registration up to date to avoid any complications while operating your vehicle, and don’t forget to renew your registration every year.

When you buy or receive a motor vehicle as a gift, you must apply for a title and Wisconsin vehicle registration immediately. The seller of the vehicle must satisfy the assignment of title, including providing an odometer disclosure (unless exempt) as well as signature and also the original document showing a lien release for any liens listed on the vehicle title.

Wisconsin Vehicle Registration for New Wisconsin Residents

When becoming a Wisconsin resident, you must obtain your Wisconsin registration ad license plates. You are considered a resident of the state if you are registered to vote in the state, you pay you income taxes in Wisconsin, or if your main residence is in the state. In order to complete your Wisconsin Vehicle application, you will need the following documents and forms:

• Out of state title or vehicle registration card from the previous state of residence.

• Completed Form MV1 Title/License Plate Application.

• Current proof of identity if you are applying in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles customer service center or to a Department of Motor Vehicles agent.

• Title fee.

• Proof of payment of sales tax to your former state if you were the owner of your vehicle for less than 90 days. Any tax paid to another state can be applied to the local or state use tax due.

• WI registration fees, based on the vehicle type.

• County or municipal Wheel tax, if applicable.

• Money order of check payable to Registration Fee Trust

You can submit these either by mail, at a Department of Motor Vehicles service center($5 counter service fee), at a Department of Motor Vehicles agent location (maximum service fee of $10 for a renewal transaction and $19.50 for a title transaction), or at a Department of Motor Vehicles temporary license plate agent ($3 temporary plate fee and up to $5 service).

Wisconsin Vehicle Registration Renewal

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation mails WI vehicle registration renewal notices at least thirty days before the expiration date. If you lose your WI registration renewal notice, or if you did not receive it, you can download from MV2016, a Substitute Renewal Notice. You can renew your WI vehicle registration either by mail, in person, or online.

Wisconsin Vehicle Registration Fees

There are many different fees that you may encounter based on your vehicle and situation. Some of the more common ones include the following:

• Automobile WI vehicle registration: $75 annually

• School bus WI registration: $5

• Bus WI registration: Varies by weight

• Motorcycle WI vehicle registration: $23 biennial

• Moped WI vehicle registration: $23 biennial

• Light truck WI registration: $75 annually

• Heavy Truck WI registration: Varies by weight

• Temporary WI vehicle registration: varies

• Original or transfer of title: $69.50, $62.00 for transfer to a surviving spouse or for a low speed vehicle

• Title replacement: $20.00

• Duplicate certificate of WI vehicle registration: $2.00

• Late WI registration renewal fee: $10.00

• WI Registration file searches: $5 for each search

• Online WI registration renewal: $1.75

Everything to Know About VIN’s

What is a VIN?

A Vehicle Identification Number, commonly referred to as a VIN, is a unique serial number which is used by the automotive industry in order to identify individual vehicles. There are various vehicle history services provided in several countries that may help potential car owners use their VIN to find potentially defective or branded vehicles. Recently VINs are issued as 17 digit serials. Not only can a VIN displays a vehicle’s uniqueness and heritage, a VIN can also be used to track registrations, recalls, warranty claims, insurance coverage and thefts. Each digit or character of a VIN has a specific purpose.

History of the VIN

The VIN was first used in 1954. Detroit automobile manufacturers first began stamping and casting VINs on cars and their parts. The original purpose of the VIN was to give an accurate idea of the vehicle when mass production amounts were starting to scale significantly. Between 1954 and 1981, there were no accepted standards for the VIN, so different auto manufacturers used different formats to issue VINs to vehicles.

In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (USDOT) of the United States standardized the format for VINs. They required all road vehicles to have a 17 character VIN, which established the standard VIN system. These VINs could not include the letters I, O, or Q.

The VIN standard was originally described in February 1977 in ISO Standard 3779 and revised last in 1983. The standard VIN system was designed to identify motor vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds and trailers as well.

What is a VIN Inspection?

A VIN inspection is a standard physical examination of your motor vehicle in order to determine whether the VIN of the vehicle matches the VIN listed on the vehicle’s title or main ownership document. The VIN inspection is usually performed by an authorized inspector, such as a DMV employee or a dealer.

During a VIN inspection, a motor vehicle is physically examined to ensure that the VIN matches the documentation presented during a title or registration transaction. The actual VIN sticker and plate are also checked in to order make sure they both are authentic and match the documentation of the vehicle. The VIN is also checked against various state and federal databases of stole cars. The VIN inspection is not used for determining the safety of a motor vehicle or its parts.

Where to Find a VIN

The VIN of a vehicle can be found by looking at the vehicle’s dashboard on the driver side. If you are unable to find the VIN, you can open the driver side door and check at the door post (the point where the vehicle door latches when the door is closed). It is very likely that the VIN is also displayed in this location of the vehicle. If you still cannot find the VIN of the vehicle, you may want to check the following spots:

• Left hand inner wheel arch

• Firewall of the vehicle

• Machined pad on front of engine

• Radiator support bracket

• Steering column

• Passenger or driver side door or post

• Dash by windshield

• Guarantee & Maintenance Book or other vehicle book

For vehicles with later model years, the most common areas to find the VIN of your vehicle are on:

• Drivers door or post

• Left instrumentation/dash plate by window

• Firewall

Types of VIN

There are at least four different competing standards used to calculate VIN:

• FMVSS 115, Section 565: Used in both United States and Canada

• ISO Standard 3779: Used mostly Europe, but also other parts of the world

• SAE J853: Quite similar to the ISO standard

• ADR 61/2: used only in Australia, looking back at ISO 3779 and 3780.

Parts of a VIN

Modern-day VIN systems are based on two different but related standards, originally given by the International Organization for Standardization in 1979 and again in 1980; ISO 3779 and 3780, respectively. Different but compatible uses of these ISO standards have been set up and used by the United States of America and the European Union.

• ISO 3770

o World Manufacturer Identifier (characters 1-3)

o VDS (characters 4-9)

o VIS (characters 10-17)

• More than 500 vehicles/year in European Union and North America

o World Manufacturer Identifier (characters 1-3)

o Vehicle attributes (characters 4-8)

o Check Digit (character 9)

o Model year (character 10)

o Plant code (character 11)

o Sequential number (character 12-17)

• Less than 500 vehicles/year in European Union and North America

o World Manufacturer Identifier (characters 1-3)

o Vehicle attributes (characters 4-8)

o Check Digit (character 9)

o Model year (character 10)

o Plant code (character 11)

o Manufacturer Identifier (character 12-14)

o Sequential number (character 15-17)

The World Manufacturer Identifier of a VIN

The very first three characters identify the manufacturer of the vehicle uniquely using the World Manufacturer Identifier, also called the WMI code. Any manufacturer that builds less than 500 vehicles per year uses the number 9 as the third digit of the VIN, and the 12-14th position of the VIN as the second part of the manufacturer’s identification. Sometimes, manufacturers will use the third character of a VIN as a code for a division within a manufacturer, a vehicle category, or both. For example, within the identifier 1G, which is assigned to General Motors in the US, 1G1 are Chevrolet passenger cars, 1G2 are Pontiac passenger cars, and 1GC are Chevrolet trucks.

The first character of the World Manufacturer Identifier is the area region where the manufacturer is located. In practice, each VIN is assigned to a country where vehicles are manufactured. The only exception to this is in Europe. In Europe, the country where the continental headquarters is located can assign the World Manufacturer Identifier to all the vehicles produced in that area. For example, GM Europe cars have the identifier W0 whether they are produced in Germany, UK, Belgium, Spain or Poland since the GM headquarters is based in Germany.

The Vehicle Descriptor Section of a VIN

The 4th to 9th character in the VIN are together known as the Vehicle Descriptor Section or the VDS. This is used in order to identify the vehicle type, and can include information regarding the automobile platform used, the body style, and the model. Each vehicle manufacturer has a unique way of using this field. Since the 1980’s, most manufacturers have used the eighth digit to classify the engine type of the vehicle whenever there are multiple engine choices for the motor vehicle. One element of this descriptor that is fairly consistent is the use of the ninth position as a check digit, which is compulsory for vehicles in North America, and is often followed in countries where this is not mandatory.

The Vehicle Identifier Section of a VIN

The tenth to seventeenth positions of the VIN are used as the Vehicle Identifier Section. This section is used by the vehicle manufacturer to identify the specific vehicle in question. This can include any information on engine and transmission choices or on options installed, but more often, this is a simple sequential number. In the United States and other North American countries, the last five digits of the VIN must be numeric.

One very consistent element of the Vehicle Identifier Section is the tenth digit, which is needed worldwide to include the model year of the motor vehicle. Besides the three letter characters that are not allowed in the VIN (I, O, Q), the digit 0 and the letters U and Z are never used for the model year code.

Some manufacturers such as General Motors and Chrysler encoded the year 1980 as “A” (since the VIN wasn’t mandatory until the next year, and the zero or “A” was found in the manufacturer’s pre-1981 placement in the VIN). However, AMC and Ford still used a zero for any 1980 model cars. Subsequent increment in years occurred through the allowed letters, so that now the year 2000 is represented by the letter “Y”. The years 2001 through 2009 are encoded as the digits from 1 to 9, and all subsequent years are encoded as “A”, “B”, “C”, etc.

On April 30, 2008, the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration adopted a rule which amended 49 CFR Part 565, allowing the current 17 character length VIN to continue in use for at least another thirty years, in the process changing several aspects to the VIN requirements applicable to any motor vehicles built for sale in the United States. There are three major notable changes to the VIN system that affects VIN deciphering systems:

The make of the vehicle can only be identified after examining positions 1 through 3 and another position, as given by the manufacturer of the vehicle in the second section or positions 4 through 8 of the VIN.

In order to properly identify exact year of passenger cars or multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less, one must look at position 7 along with position 10 of the VIN. For passenger cars or multipurpose passenger vehicles and trucks that have a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 pounds, if position 7 of the VIN is numeric, the model year of the vehicle in position 10 of the VIN points out a year in the range between 1980 and 2009. If position 7 is an alphabetic character, the model year in position 10 of the vehicle’s VIN refers to a specific year in a range between 2010 and 2039.

The model year for any vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating which exceeds 10,000 pounds as well as motorcycles, trailers, buses, and low speed vehicles can no longer be identified with a VIN within a 30-year range. VIN positions 1 through 8 and 10 that were assigned between 1980 and 2009 can be repeated after the 2010 model year.

Another always -used element of a VIN, which is mandatory in North America, is the use of the eleventh character to include the factory of manufacture of the motor vehicle. Although each specific manufacturer has its own specific set of plant codes, the location of this code in the VIN is standardized.

Calculation to Validate a VIN

If you are trying to validate your vehicle’s VIN with a check digit, there are different options. You can either remove the check digit of the VIN for the purpose of calculation, or you can cancel it out. You must later compare the original value of this check digit with the calculated value of the check digit. If the two values do not match up and there is no calculation error, that means there is a mistake within the VIN. However, a match between the two does not actually prove the VIN is correct because according to the odds, there is still a 1 in 11 chance that any two separate VINs will have a matching check digit.

Using a VIN to Buy a Car

The VIN of a vehicle can be very important for identifying a vehicle and learning more about its history. Many services will provide you helpful a vehicle history report based on a VIN number. Some things you can learn from these reports include the following:

• Vehicle registration

• Title information, including junked or salvaged titles

• Odometer readings

• Total loss accident history

• Lemon history

• Accident indicators, such as airbag deployments or other indicators

• Frame/structural damage

• Service and repair information

• Recall information

• Vehicle usage (rental, taxi lease, etc.)

You should also be careful of crooked sellers and dealers who may provide the wrong VIN in an online listing or those who refuse to provide the VIN. The 17 character VIN has become a tool of empowerment for byers seeking potential vehicles to purchase.

Tennessee Vehicle Registration

Tennessee Vehicle Registration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you own a vehicle in Tennessee, you need to register it with the Tennessee Department of Revenue to comply with state laws. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the process of registering your vehicle in Tennessee.

Registration Requirements

The following vehicles require registration in Tennessee:

– Passenger cars
– Trucks
– Motorcycles
– Trailers
– Recreational vehicles
– Boats

To register your vehicle, you will need:

– Proof of ownership (title or registration certificate)
– Tennessee driver’s license or state-issued ID
– Application for Vehicle Registration
– Payment for registration fees and taxes
– Proof of insurance

Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to registering your vehicle in Tennessee:

1. Obtain a title for your vehicle.

If your vehicle is new or was previously titled in another state, you’ll need to obtain a Tennessee title. You can do this by visiting a local county clerk’s office.

2. Obtain Tennessee insurance.

You’ll need to provide proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. Tennessee requires minimum liability insurance of 25/50/15.

3. Complete the Application for Vehicle Registration.

The application is available on the Tennessee Department of Revenue website or at a local county clerk’s office.

4. Submit your application and fees.

You can submit your application and fees in person at a local county clerk’s office. You can also submit your application and fees by mail.

5. Receive your registration and license plates.

After your application is approved, you will receive a registration certificate and license plates. Place the license plates on the front and back of your vehicle.

Registration Fees

Tennessee registration fees vary based on the type of vehicle you own. Passenger cars have a base fee of $26.50 for one year. Additional fees may apply for vehicles over specific weights and ages.

Other fees may apply, such as a late fee if you fail to register your vehicle by the expiration date.

Conclusion

Registering your vehicle in Tennessee is necessary to comply with state laws. By following the registration requirements outlined in this article, you can easily register your vehicle and avoid fines or penalties. Remember to keep your registration up to date to avoid any complications while operating your vehicle, and don’t forget to renew your registration every year.

The state of Tennessee requires vehicle owners to complete the Tennessee vehicle registration process for their vehicles. Vehicles must be properly titled and registered before being allowed to be driven on Tennessee roads.

First-Time Tennessee Vehicle Registration

If you are moving to the state of Tennessee, you will need to complete the Tennessee vehicle registration process for your new vehicle. You can do this by bring the application for Certificate of Title and TN Registration to the office of the local county clerk. If your local county of residence requires emission testing for your vehicle, the vehicle will have to be tested for emissions first before going to the county clerk’s office.

Once you go, you will be able to give your application and pay the required TN vehicle registration fees. Aside from your application, you will also need to provide the local county clerk with your passed emissions certificate, the most recent out-of-state vehicle registration and the name and address of your vehicle’s lien holder to whom you are making payments to (if you have a leased or financed vehicle). If your vehicle does not have a lien holder, you must provide your out-of-state title to your local county clerk.

If you are a current resident of Tennessee and you have just purchased a new vehicle, you will need to complete the TN vehicle registration process as well. You must submit the new vehicle invoice, the manufacturer’s statement of origin, and a copy of your current vehicle registration if you are transferring your license plate. If you are a resident, but you purchased a used motor vehicle, you must submit an odometer disclosure statement, a certificate of title, and a copy of your current vehicle registration if you are transferring your license plate to the used vehicle. These are all required for a Tennessee vehicle registration.

Regardless of what sort situation applies to you, you will have to submit your TN vehicle registration applications through your local county clerk. You will also need to provide proof of identification as well as proof of residency when you are completing a TN vehicle registration and titling application for your vehicle.

Renewing a Tennessee Vehicle Registration

The state of Tennessee sends a renewal notice for a Tennessee vehicle registration each month about six weeks in advance of a TN registration expiration date through the mail. This allows Tennessee residents to have adequate time to renew their TN vehicle registration. If a motor vehicle has the TN registration in a county that needs emissions testing, the vehicle must complete before renewing TN registration. Renewal notices are not needed to renew TN vehicle registration.

Any official document that contains the license plate number or the Vehicle Identification Number including a previous renewal notice can be used to renew a Tennessee vehicle registration. You can send renew your TN registration along with pay the required fees to the county clerk by mail. Tennessee vehicle registration renewal fees vary based on the county of residence.

What to Know About Texting While Driving

What is Texting While Driving?

Texting while driving is the action of writing text messages, sending text messages, reading text messages, reading email, or making similar use of the web and connection features on a mobile phone while controlling operating a motor vehicle. The act of texting while driving has been looked at by many authorities as a dangerous one. Texting while driving has also been ruled many times as the cause of many motor vehicle accidents, and because of this, texting while driving has restricted or outlawed in certain jurisdictions. Texting while driving leads to an increase of distraction behind the wheel.

A study conducted in 2006 by Liberty Mutual Insurance Group which included over than 900 teens from more than 26 high schools across the country showed that 37 percent of students found that texting while to was “very” or “extremely” distracting. Another study by the American Automobile Association found that 46 percent of teen drivers admitted to being distracted while driving due to texting.

Although talking on a cellular phone while driving a vehicle is considered very dangerous, the threat of this really became a large issue when texting was first introduced. Since the year 2000, texting on mobile devices has very quickly become a social norm, as most cell phone plans provide a text messaging plan. There has also been a significant increase in smart phone sales with the growing popularity of iPhone, Blackberry, and Android phones, which allows people to easily communicate while they are doing almost anything.

The dilemma at this point is finding a point where safety becomes a bigger concern over convenience. Many different studies have shown texting while driving to be the cause of different life-threatening accidents because of the driver’s distraction. The International Telecommunication Union made a statement saying that making calls, making calls, and other interaction with communication systems while driving is a very serious source of driver distraction which increases the chance of traffic accidents.

There was an experiment in 2009 with Eddie Alterman, Car and Driver magazine editor, which took place at a deserted air strip. The experiment showed that texting while driving greatly greater impacted safety while driving than driving drunk. When Alterman was put in a legally drunk state, his stopping distance from 70 mph went up by 4 feet. However, when he was reading an e-mail, 36 feet was added to his stopping distance, while sending a text added 70 feet to it at 70 mph.

United States Texting While Driving Laws

Texting while driving is a big problem in the United States and has been outlawed or will soon be outlawed for all drivers in many states including: Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Hampshire, North Carolina, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wyoming and Wisconsin. In the state of Texas, the law prevents school bus drivers from texting while driving when transporting a child who is under the age of 17. In many other states including Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Texas, Nebraska, and West Virginia, there are laws that apply to underage drivers or drivers with learner’s permits which makes it illegal for them to text while driving. Other laws enacted by Kentucky in 2010 and by Indiana in 2011 banned all texting while driving for all drivers, as well as all cell phone usage by all vehicle drivers under the age of 18. The latter portion of the law is very unusual in that drivers with unrestricted licenses are still subject to the cell phone ban. Many states that have banned the use of mobile phone by young drivers only apply their laws to holders of graduated or restricted licenses.

In the state of Florida, a proposed bill called “Heather’s Law” would entirely ban all cell phone use and texting while driving. Heather’s Law was inspired by the death of Heather Hurd, who had been killed in an accident supposedly caused by a truck driver who drove and crashed into ten cars while he was texting while driving.

On October 1, 2009, the United States Department of Transportation announced that President Barack Obama would be signing an Executive Order which directed federal employees to not engage in texting while driving government-owned vehicles, along with other activities. According to the Department of Transportation Secretary Ray Lahood, the order sent a very clear message to the American public saying that that distracted driving is incredibly dangerous and completely unacceptable.

This executive order shows that the federal government was trying to lead by example. As a part of a bigger move to combat texting while driving and distracted driving, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Department of Transportation along with the Department of Transportation launched a public information website called distraction.gov.

On January 26, 2010, the United States Department of Transportation also announced a federal ban on texting while driving by bus drivers and trucks.

Criticisms of Texting While Driving Bans

One common argument against texting while driving bans is that it texting can be safe and helpful under certain circumstances. For example, if a driver is stuck in a traffic jam, he or she can safely send a text message in order to reschedule an appointment. Additionally, there are some products available commercially that suppress the use of cell phone screens and keyboards, which prohibits emailing texting, or web browsing. Some other products also allow calls to be made using in-vehicle Bluetooth connections or other hands free mobile devices in order to reduce the risks of distracted driving.

Another argument against these texting while driving bans is regarding the wording of these bans. Instead of placing a ban on the act of reading or writing a text, which can distract a person, texting while driving laws usually bans the act of sending a text message and does not specifically discuss how the messages are created. With advanced voice recognition technology, text messages can be made both eyes and hands free, without needing to engage in the act of writing or reading.

Notable Texting While Driving Crashes

• August 29, 2007: Danny Oates was killed by a driver of a car who was allegedly texting while driving. The defense argued that the driver Jeffrey Woods may have suffered a seizure during the accident.

• January 3, 2008: Heather Leigh Hurd died in a crash caused by a truck driver who allegedly had been texting while driving. Russell Hurd, her father, has been supporting a law in various states called Heather’s Law, which would prohibit texting while driving.

• September 12, 2008: The Chatsworth train collision killed 25 people. The blame for the accident was placed on the operator who was sending text messages while conducting the train.

• May 2009: The MBTA Green Line of the Boston area of the MBTA crashed while the 24-year-old driver was texting while driving the train. The crash resulted in 46 people injured and had an estimated cost of $9.6 million.

Texas Vehicle Registration

Texas Vehicle Registration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you own a vehicle in Texas, you need to register it with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to comply with state laws. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the process of registering your vehicle in Texas.

Registration Requirements

The following vehicles require registration in Texas:

– Passenger cars
– Trucks
– Motorcycles
– Trailers
– Recreational vehicles
– Boats

To register your vehicle, you will need:

– Proof of ownership (title or registration certificate)
– Texas driver’s license or state-issued ID
– Application for Texas Title and/or Registration
– Payment for registration fees and taxes
– Proof of insurance

Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to registering your vehicle in Texas:

1. Obtain a title for your vehicle.

If your vehicle is new or was previously titled in another state, you’ll need to obtain a Texas title. You can do this by visiting a local county tax office.

2. Obtain Texas insurance.

You’ll need to provide proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. Texas requires minimum liability insurance of 30/60/25.

3. Complete the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration.

The application is available on the Texas DMV website or at a local county tax office.

4. Submit your application and fees.

You can submit your application and fees in person at a local county tax office. You can also submit your application and fees by mail.

5. Receive your registration and license plates.

After your application is approved, you will receive a registration sticker and license plates. Place the license plates on the front and back of your vehicle and affix the registration sticker to the windshield.

Registration Fees

Texas registration fees vary based on the type of vehicle you own. Passenger cars have a base fee of $50.75 for one year. Additional fees may apply for vehicles over specific weights and ages.

Other fees may apply, such as a late fee if you fail to register your vehicle by the expiration date.

Conclusion

Registering your vehicle in Texas is necessary to comply with state laws. By following the registration requirements outlined in this article, you can easily register your vehicle and avoid fines or penalties. Remember to keep your registration up to date to avoid any complications while operating your vehicle, and don’t forget to renew your registration every year.

Motor vehicle owners in the state of Texas are required by Texas law to register their motor vehicles. This includes new and used vehicles that are purchased from Texas dealers, out-of-state dealers, and private parties.

First-Time Texas Vehicle Registration for New Texas Residents

New residents of Texas must complete the Texas vehicle registration process for their vehicles within thirty (30) days of moving to Texas. This means they must get a vehicle inspection and they must title and register their vehicles with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles in person.

New Texas residents must have their motor vehicles pass inspection TX registration and titling. After having a vehicle inspected and passed, vehicle owners should take the following documents to their local county tax office to complete the Texas vehicle registration process:

• Inspection certificate for the vehicle for TX vehicle registration.

• Proof of valid liability insurance for the state of Texas for TX registration.

• The odometer reading of the motor vehicle if it is less than ten years old for TX registration.

• An ownership document, which can be either proof of vehicle registration for out-of-state titled vehicles, the original out-of-state title, current military/foreign ownership document, or foreign proof of ownership for TX vehicle registration.

• Completed Form 130-U, Application for Texas Certificate of Title.

• Completed Form VTR-272, Application for Registration Purposes Only, if you are only registering a vehicle that was titled outside of Texas for TX vehicle registration.

• The appropriate registration fee for TX registration.

• Title application fee of either $28 or $33, depending on your county.

• Proof of sales tax payment or $90 new resident tax for TX registration.

First-Time Texas Vehicle Registration for Current Texas Residents

Residents of the state of Texas who own a motor vehicle are legally required to renew their vehicle registration annually. They can do this in three ways: in person, by mail, or online.

Texas Vehicle Registration in Person: You can register your motor vehicle in person by taking your TX registration renewal notice, proof of liability insurance, and your registration fee to your local county tax office or approved substation. If you do not have a renewal notice, you can complete your Texas vehicle registration with your vehicle identification number, license plate number, or previous year’s registration receipt.

Texas Vehicle Registration by Mail: Texas sends TX registration renewal notices by mail to all registered vehicle owners. You can send your renewal notice, your proof of current Texas liability insurance, the registration fee, and a $1 mail-in fee to your county tax office.

Texas Vehicle Registration Online: Certain counties allow you to renew your TX vehicle registration online. This service is available through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Texas Vehicle Registration Fees

As of September 1, 2011, registration fees have been standardized in the state of Texas for cars, light pickups, heavy vehicles, commercial trucks motor homes, travel trailers and regular trailers. The TX vehicle registration fees are as follows:

• $50.75 TX registration fee for light pick-up trucks and cars

• $52.75 TX registration renewal fee for light pick-up trucks and cars

• $54 TX registration for motor vehicles between 6,001 and 10,000 pounds

• Local county fees range from $5 to $11.50

Texting While Driving Statistics

Texting while driving occurs when an individual writes text messages, sends text messages, reads text messages, reads email, or makes similar use of the web and connection features on a cellular phone while driving. Texting while driving is considered by many authorities as a very dangerous activity. Texting while driving is also often the reason for various motor vehicle accidents. Because of this, texting while driving has restricted or outlawed in certain jurisdictions. Texting while driving leads to an increase of distraction behind the wheel. Here are some informative texting while driving statistics from the Center for Disease Control.

Texting While Driving Statistics: Severity of the Problem

• In 2009, over 5,400 people died in vehicle crashes that were reported to have involved a distracted driver. In the same year, nearly 448,000 were injured as a result of these accidents.

• Among car crashes that resulted in death or injury, nearly 1,000 deaths and 24,000 injuries involved cell phone use as the main driving distraction.

• The proportion of vehicle drivers reportedly distracted during the time of a fatal crash has increased between 2005 and 2990 from 7 percent to 11 percent.

• When asked whether individuals who are driving feels safer, about the same, or less safe as they did five years ago, more than a third of drivers responded that they felt driving was less safe today. The largest reason for this feeling was due to the concern of distracted drivers and texting while driving. Statistics showed that three out of every ten drivers worried about this.

Texting While Driving Statistics: Analysis of Driving Distractions

A recent CDC analysis closely looked at the frequency of two major distractions, texting and cell phone among United States drivers and seven European countries (France, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Spain, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom). They found the following texting while driving statistics:

Texting While Driving Statistics: Cell phone use

• 25 percent of drivers in the United States said that they fairly often or regularly talk on their cell phones while driving.

• In Europe, these percentages ranged from 3 percent in the United Kingdom to 21 percent in the Netherlands.

• 75 percent of United States drivers between the ages of 18 and 29 reported that they talked on their mobile phones while driving at least one time in the past 30 days, and nearly 40 percent of these drivers reported that they talk on their mobile phones fairly often or regularly while driving.

• In Europe, the percentages of young adults who reported using their cell while driving at least one time in the past 30 days ranged between 30 percent in the Netherlands and 50 percent in Portugal.

Texting While Driving Statistics: Texting and Emailing

• 9 percent of vehicle drivers in the United States reported e-mailing or driving fairly often or regularly while driving.

• In Europe, these percentages ranged from 1 percent in the United Kingdom to 10 percent in the Netherlands.

• 52 percent of United States drivers between the ages of 18 and 29 reported e-mailing or texting while driving at least one time in the last 30 days, and more than a 25 percent report e-mailing or texting fairly often or regularly while driving.

• In Europe, the percentages of young adults who reported e-mailing or texting while driving at least one time in the past 30 days ranged between 17 percent in the United Kingdom and 44 percent in Portugal.