{"id":358059,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:22","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/traffic-violations.html"},"modified":"2023-10-02T14:47:24","modified_gmt":"2023-10-02T19:47:24","slug":"traffic-violations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/traffic-violations.html","title":{"rendered":"What Is a Traffic Violation?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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What Is a Traffic Violation?<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Susan Buckner, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Traffic violations range from minor infractions, like speeding or failing to signal, to more serious offenses that can lead to license suspension, higher insurance rates, or even jail time. Because the consequences can escalate quickly, many drivers consult traffic attorneys to understand their options and protect their driving record.<\/p>\n

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A traffic violation occurs when a driver violates a law regulating motor vehicle operation on streets or highways. A traffic ticket, or traffic citation, is a minor offense, but it can have serious consequences for the driver. Traffic violations appear on your driving record, affect insurance premiums, and result in costly fines and legal fees.<\/p>\n

The majority of traffic tickets are infractions. These are civil violations issued by local law enforcement, with minimal fines. More serious offenses can cause you to lose your driver’s license, attend traffic school<\/a>, and even face jail time.<\/p>\n

Before things get that far, seek legal advice from a traffic ticket attorney<\/a>. Keep reading to learn more about traffic violations and when to hire legal help for your ticket.<\/p>\n

Traffic Tickets and Strict Liability<\/h2>\n

Most\u00a0minor traffic tickets<\/a>\u00a0are strict liability offenses, sometimes called “per se” or “malum prohibitum” offenses. This means that the driver’s intent is irrelevant to the commission of the crime. Once the act occurs, the driver has committed the crime. For instance, if a school zone has a posted limit of 25 mph, and you drive through it at 50 mph, your intent to speed does not matter.<\/p>\n

Without injuries or property damage, these strict liability crimes remain civil infractions<\/a>. Other strict liability traffic violations include:<\/p>\n