Criminal versus Noncriminal Traffic Violations

We will probably all make a mistake on the road at some point in our lives, and if there is a police officer nearby then you are likely to get a traffic ticket. Whether it’s speeding, failure to yield, reckless driving, etc… Getting a ticket can be frustrating. For the majority of us though, we will be left to pay a fine to the city court and move on with our lives. But what if your charge is a criminal charge? The process just got a lot more complicated and can affect you years into the future. Here is a little bit of background on how the majority of American states operate their driving programs and what to expect if you get in trouble.

Criminal vs. Noncriminal Cases

We are all familiar with the terms criminal and noncriminal. When it comes to driving, these terms apply when an officer is issuing you a traffic citation or ticket. Here is the difference between the two. When you get pulled over by a police officer for traveling faster than the speed limit, the officer can give you a non-criminal citation. This is usually the minimum citation. The officer usually will not detain you unless there is a specific reason and will usually include a fine, or the option to appear in court on a specific date to fight the fine.

If you receive a criminal traffic ticket, it means that you committed a misdemeanor or felony. Examples of this include: DUI, Driving with a suspended license, criminal speeding, etc…Criminal charges can come with a number of repercussions and can affect your driving abilities down the road. Criminal charges can be costly, they require classes, and in some instances, excessive fines and penalties. No matter what type of ticket you have received, you can almost be guaranteed that it will affect your auto insurance monthly premium.

Each time you receive a ticket, your insurance premium will go up because your driver’s license will have points against it. Most states in the U.S. imply some sort of points system. Once the points exceed a certain limit set by the state, the driver’s license can be suspended or revoked for a specific time. Each traffic ticket you get will come with a certain amount of points. The worst the traffic violation is, the more points you will receive on your driving record. For a list of your states traffic point system, contact the motor vehicle division in your area.

Author Bio:The Law Offices of John Phebus can help represent your criminal traffic case in the State of Arizona and make sure that you are treated fairly and justly.