Learn About Finding Outstanding Traffic Violations

Understanding Traffic Violations and How They're Categorized

Traffic violations are infractions or offenses committed by drivers that break traffic laws. These violations range from minor infractions to serious criminal offenses, and understanding the differences matters because the consequences vary significantly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2022, there were over 42,514 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the United States, with many involving traffic violations as contributing factors.

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Traffic violations fall into several broad categories. Moving violations occur when a vehicle is in motion and the driver breaks a traffic law—examples include speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield. Non-moving violations involve parking or equipment issues, such as expired registration, broken headlights, or parking in a no-parking zone. Criminal traffic violations are the most serious and may involve reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), or hit-and-run incidents. Administrative violations relate to licensing issues, such as driving with a suspended or revoked license.

Severity classifications also matter. A traffic citation is typically a ticket issued for minor offenses. Misdemeanor traffic violations are more serious and may result in fines up to $1,000 and jail time of up to one year, depending on state law. Felony traffic violations—such as vehicular assault or repeated DUI offenses—carry penalties including substantial prison time and large fines. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), about 1.5 million DUI arrests occur annually in the United States, representing one of the most common serious traffic violations.

Understanding these categories helps drivers recognize the seriousness of different violations. For instance, a speeding ticket might result in a fine and points on a driving record, while a DUI conviction can result in license suspension, mandatory education programs, and substantial fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more depending on jurisdiction and prior offenses.

Practical Takeaway: When researching a traffic violation you've received or encountered, first identify which category it falls into—moving, non-moving, criminal, or administrative. This categorization determines what consequences and legal options may follow.

Common Types of Traffic Violations and Their Consequences

Speeding remains the most frequently cited traffic violation in the United States. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), speeding is a factor in approximately 26% of fatal traffic crashes. Speeding violations vary by how much a driver exceeds the posted limit. In many states, speeding 1-9 mph over the limit may result in a fine of $50-$100, while exceeding the limit by 20+ mph can result in fines of $200-$500 or more. Speeding violations also typically add points to a driving record, which can increase insurance premiums.

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Running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign is another major violation category. These violations contribute to approximately 1,000 deaths annually in the United States. Penalties typically include fines ranging from $100 to $500 and may add 3-4 points to a driving record. Some jurisdictions use red light camera systems, which automatically photograph vehicles that enter an intersection after the light turns red. These violations can be handled through mail rather than requiring a court appearance.

Reckless driving involves operating a vehicle with willful disregard for safety. Examples include excessive speeding (typically 20+ mph over the limit), aggressive lane changes, or tailgating. Reckless driving is classified as a misdemeanor in most states and carries fines of $500-$1,000, possible jail time of up to 90 days, and 4-6 points on a driving record. Insurance premiums often increase significantly after a reckless driving conviction.

Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) represents a serious violation. First-time DUI offenders may face fines of $500-$2,000, license suspension of 3-12 months, and possible jail time of up to 6 months. Mandatory DUI education programs costing $300-$800 are also common. Second and subsequent offenses carry progressively harsher penalties. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately one-third of all fatal traffic crashes involve alcohol-impaired driving.

Distracted driving violations are increasingly common. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in most states, and violations can result in fines of $50-$500 and points on a driving record. The National Safety Council reports that cell phone use while driving leads to more than 1.6 million crashes annually.

Practical Takeaway: Research the specific penalties in your state for the type of violation you're learning about. Penalties vary significantly by jurisdiction and prior violations, so understanding local laws helps you grasp potential consequences.

How to Research Your Specific Traffic Violation

If you've received a traffic citation, the ticket itself contains essential information. The document typically lists the citation number, date and location of the violation, the specific violation code, and the fine amount. Most tickets include instructions for paying the fine or requesting a court date. Reading the ticket carefully is the first step in understanding what violation you're dealing with and what options exist.

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To learn more about your specific violation, begin by searching your state's vehicle code or traffic statutes online. Most states maintain searchable databases of traffic laws on their legislative websites. For example, if you received a citation for "Vehicle Code Section 21453(a)," you can search that specific code number to learn exactly what behavior it prohibits. Court websites often provide explanations of common violations and their penalties in plain language.

County or local court websites are valuable resources. Many publish traffic violation guides or frequently asked questions sections explaining different offenses and standard penalties. Some courts provide information about traffic school programs, which may reduce points on your record or dismiss the violation entirely. The Judicial Council of California, for instance, publishes detailed traffic violation information online that California residents can reference.

Police department websites sometimes offer information about traffic enforcement and violation categories. While these aren't legal resources, they can provide context about why certain violations are enforced in your area. Insurance company websites also publish information about traffic violations and their impact on insurance rates, which can help you understand long-term consequences.

If you need more detailed information, public law libraries—available in most counties—provide free access to legal codes, case law, and research materials. Librarians can assist you in finding information about specific traffic violations without providing legal advice. Many libraries also offer computers with internet access and legal research databases.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website provides statistics and information about various traffic violations and their role in accidents and fatalities. This resource can help you understand the safety implications of different violations beyond just the legal consequences.

Practical Takeaway: Start with your traffic citation and the violation code number. Use this code to search your state's vehicle code online and your local court website. These official sources provide accurate information about what the violation means and what penalties apply in your jurisdiction.

Understanding Points Systems and Driving Records

Most states use a point system to track traffic violations on a driver's record. When a driver is cited for a violation, points are added to their record. The number of points varies by violation type and severity. For example, speeding might add 2-4 points, while reckless driving might add 4-6 points. Accumulating too many points within a certain time period—typically 12 months—can result in license suspension or revocation.

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Point thresholds vary by state. In California, accumulating 4 points within 12 months, 6 points within 24 months, or 8 points within 36 months can result in license suspension. In New York, 11 points within 18 months triggers suspension. Understanding your state's threshold helps you recognize the impact of additional violations. The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) maintains information about point systems across different states.

Points typically remain on a driving record for 3-10 years depending on the violation type and state law. A minor speeding violation might stay on your record for 3-5 years, while more serious violations like DUI may remain for 7-10 years or longer. During this period, your insurance company can view these violations and adjust premiums accordingly. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety data shows that a single speeding ticket can increase insurance premiums by 10-15%.

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