Traffic & Fines

Types of traffic violations

• Infractions — Minor violations like speeding, running a stop sign, or expired registration. Usually result in a fine and points on your license.
• Misdemeanors — More serious offenses like reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, or hit-and-run (property damage only). Can carry fines, jail time, or both.
• Felonies — The most serious traffic offenses, such as vehicular manslaughter or repeat DUI. Carry significant penalties including prison time.

Your options when you get a ticket

When you receive a traffic citation, you generally have three options:

1. Pay the fine — This is an admission of guilt. The violation goes on your driving record and may increase your insurance rates.
2. Contest the ticket — Request a court hearing to challenge the citation. You'll need to present a defense to the judge.
3. Traffic school — If eligible, completing traffic school may keep the violation off your record or reduce points. Eligibility varies by state and violation type.

Contesting a traffic ticket

If you decide to fight the ticket:

1. Enter a "not guilty" plea by the deadline on your ticket.
2. Request any available evidence — radar calibration records, officer's notes, camera footage.
3. Prepare your defense — photos of the location, witness statements, or evidence of equipment malfunction.
4. Appear at the hearing on time and dressed respectfully.
5. Present your case clearly. The government must prove the violation — you can challenge their evidence.

License suspension and reinstatement

Your license can be suspended for various reasons:

• Accumulating too many points from traffic violations
• DUI/DWI conviction
• Failure to pay traffic fines or appear in court
• Failure to maintain auto insurance
• Failure to pay child support

To reinstate a suspended license, you typically need to resolve the underlying issue (pay fines, complete a DUI program, provide proof of insurance), pay a reinstatement fee, and wait out any mandatory suspension period.

Fines and payment plans

• Fines vary widely depending on the violation and jurisdiction.
• Additional fees (court costs, surcharges) can significantly increase the total amount owed.
• Many courts offer payment plans if you cannot pay the full amount at once.
• If you cannot afford the fine, ask the court about community service alternatives or a fee waiver.
• Ignoring fines can lead to license suspension, additional penalties, and even a warrant for your arrest.

Traffic school

Traffic school (also called defensive driving) can help keep your record clean:

• Eligibility depends on your state, the type of violation, and your recent driving record.
• Courses are available online or in-person and typically take 4–8 hours.
• Completing the course may dismiss the ticket, reduce points, or lower your insurance increase.
• Make sure the course is approved by your state's DMV or traffic court.

DUI / DWI

• Penalties increase significantly for repeat offenses and high blood alcohol levels.
• You may be required to install an ignition interlock device.
• Most states require completion of an alcohol education or treatment program.
• A DUI conviction can affect employment, professional licenses, and insurance rates for years.

Finding help

• Your local court's traffic division or clerk's office
• Court self-help centers
• Legal aid organizations (especially for license suspension and fine issues)
• Your state's DMV website for license and record information
• Bar association lawyer referral services (especially for DUI/DWI cases)