Traffic Offenses are Infractions do not usually carry the same stigma and penalties as serious Criminal Offenses. But certain traffic-related offenses are categorized as “misdemeanors” or even “felonies”, and can result in more significant fines, loss of driving privileges, or even imprisonment.
What is Considered a Criminal Traffic Offense?
Simple traffic violations usually lead to a traffic ticket and are considered infractions. However, if traffic offense is more serious than the offense can lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. These are considered criminal offenses and usually involve a trial and other prolonged legal consequences.
Are Traffic Violations Criminal Offenses?
An infraction is a public offense, but arguably not a crime, and is not punishable by imprisonment. Infractions were created in 1968, originally only including parking violations, but was gradually broadened to include running stop lights and eventually most common traffic offenses.
Can you go to Jail for Traffic Violations?
In the most extreme cases, failure to address a traffic ticket can result in a warrant for your arrest. The court can issue misdemeanor charges for ignoring a ticket, then issue an arrest warrant. If arrested, you might be sentenced to jail time or, more likely, community service hours.
Is Reckless Driving a Criminal Offense?
It is usually a more serious offense than careless driving, improper driving, or driving without due care and attention and is often punishable by fines, imprisonment, or driver’s license suspension or revocation. In Virginia, reckless driving is considered a class one misdemeanor.
What are Examples of Traffic Violations?
Examples of violations of law not considered minor traffic violations are: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Driving While License is Suspended (DWLS), Failure to Appear (FTA), Reckless Driving, Open Container, and Assault with a Motor Vehicle.
What are the Most Common Traffic Violations?
Here are some of the most common traffic violations:
- Speeding.
- Running a red light.
- Not signaling.
- Crossing the median.
- Driving in car pool lane.
- Not stopping for school bus.
- Not stopping for pedestrians.
- Not using seat belt.
