Types of Traffic Tickets

In life, it's not difficult to find yourself in unfortunate situations on the road. A lot of traffic violations are actually the result of bad luck and bad timing. In all cases, a working knowledge of traffic incidents and traffic tickets can greatly help a responsible driver. The following is a basic guide about various types of traffic tickets.

Traffic tickets can be distributed for any type of traffic violation, which can be categorized into two main types: moving and non-moving violations. Moving violations are generally more serious usually involve higher penalties, fines, and punishments than non-moving violations. The classification for the severity of traffic tickets can be categorized into two main types - infractions and misdemeanors/felonies.

Infractions

Infractions are not considered crimes. These types of traffic tickets usually only require a fine of a varying amount. Jail, trial before a jury, or heavy fines can be avoided in the case of traffic infractions. Non-moving violations and less serious moving violations are also considered infractions.

Misdemeanors/Felonies

The more serious moving violations are considered misdemeanors or felonies. For a misdemeanor you will be required to pay a fine or spend up to one year in a county jail. Felonies, which are more serious (including DUI/DWI and reckless driving) require that you spend time in a state jail.

Moving violations occur when the vehicle is moving or in motion. Think of the “key in the ignition rule.” Various types of moving violations are listed below:

Running a Red Light

If you run a red light and are caught by a police officer, you will most likely be issued a red light traffic ticket. This type of ticket can carry a heavy fine as running red lights is very dangerous to motorists and walking pedestrians.

Speeding

Speeding traffic tickets are the most frequent because speed limits can easily and quickly be crossed. There are two types of speed limits:

Reckless Driving

When a person's driving shows disregard for others' safety, including motorists and pedestrians, it is called Reckless Driving. This is considered one of the most severe traffic violations and can result in license suspension.

DUI (Driving Under Influence)

Driving while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or prescribed medication is a serious violation and you will be served with a traffic ticket and likely required to appear in court. You may also be penalized for driving an unsafe vehicle in traffic. According to DUI determination requirements (which vary between states) there is a certain accepted level of blood-alcohol. In California, if your blood-alcohol level is .08 percent or higher, then you are above the legal limit to lawfully drive a vehicle. You can be arrested and/or fined for driving under the influence.

Non-Moving Violations

Non-moving violations happen when a vehicle is not moving or in motion (when the keys are not in the ignition). The following are examples of non-moving violations:

• • Parking in a No-Parking Zone
• • Parking at a parking meter without paying
• • Parking in front of a driveway
• • Non-possession of your vehicle registration and/or insurance
• • Faulty equipment
• • Illegal lighting on your vehicle
• • Illegal modifications
• • Parking more than 18" from the curb
• • Parking in a prohibited area such as parking in a handicapped zone without a handicap permit, in front of a fire hydrant or a bus stop
• • Parking longer than the permitted time
• • Parking facing the direction of the traffic
• • "Fix-It" traffic ticket fines can be waived if you resolve the problem with your vehicle and show proof to an official.

How to Beat Traffic Tickets