Dedicated to Providing Experienced Legal Guidance

In California, there are three main types of traffic violations – infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Although many traffic violations often result in minor consequences, other, more serious offenses could result in jail time and driver’s license suspension. Our criminal defense team in San Bernardino at the Law Offices of Vincent Hughes could help you fight these charges and help you avoid the stiff penalties a conviction could bring. Reach out to us today to schedule an initial case evaluation with our knowledgeable attorney to get started.

Common Traffic Violations in California

The list of traffic violations in California is seemingly endless. These are some of the most common ones:

  • Speeding
  • Not wearing a seatbelt
  • Fleeing from law enforcement
  • Distracted driving
  • Stop sign violations
  • Tailgating
  • Driving without a license
  • Handicapped parking fraud
  • Driving while using a cellphone

What is a traffic infraction?

Drivers tend not to take traffic infractions seriously. Many of these offenses are often associated with minor fines and no jail time. There are some infractions, however, such as an expired license, speeding tickets, and non-moving violations that could result in some pretty hefty fines. For example, if you driving at a speed faster than what is reasonable, you could pay a maximum of $480 in fines and a point added to your driver’s record.

Banner media

When does a traffic violation become a misdemeanor?

Misdemeanor traffic violations are a little more severe than a common speeding ticket. Your traffic violation could be treated as a misdemeanor if it resulted in damage, injury, or the threat of damage or injury. For example, reckless driving is punishable by up to 90 days in county jail and as much as $1,000 in fines. Your license could also be suspended for up to 30 days if you are a first-time offender. For a second conviction, your suspension would last 60 days.

When does a traffic violation become a felony?

Generally, most traffic violations are considered either infractions or misdemeanors. Felony traffic violations are a little rarer but have the most significant impact on those involved. For example, if you were involved in a hit-and-run accident that resulted in either property damage or severe bodily injury, this would likely be treated as a felony traffic violation. The penalties for a hit-and-run accident that resulted in injuries or death is two to four years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Your license would also be suspended for one year.

FAQs

What are the different types of traffic violations in California?

What are some common traffic violations?

What are the potential consequences of a traffic infraction?

When does a traffic violation become a misdemeanor?

When does a traffic violation become a felony?

How can legal counsel help in fighting traffic violation charges?

Should I hire a lawyer for my traffic violation case?

What are the different types of traffic violations in California?

In California, traffic violations can be classified into three main categories: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Infractions often result in minor consequences, while misdemeanors and felonies can lead to more severe penalties, including jail time and driver's license suspension.

What are some common traffic violations?

Common traffic violations include speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, fleeing from law enforcement, distracted driving, stop sign violations, tailgating, driving without a license, handicapped parking fraud, and driving while using a cell phone.

What are the potential consequences of a traffic infraction?

While many traffic infractions are associated with minor fines and no jail time, certain offenses, such as an expired license, speeding tickets, and non-moving violations, can result in significant fines and points added to your driver's record.

When does a traffic violation become a misdemeanor?

A traffic violation may be treated as a misdemeanor if it results in damage, injury, or the threat of damage or injury. Examples include reckless driving, which can lead to jail time, fines, and license suspension.

When does a traffic violation become a felony?

Most traffic violations are considered infractions or misdemeanors, but felony traffic violations are rarer and have more significant impacts. For instance, a hit-and-run accident resulting in property damage or bodily injury can be treated as a felony, leading to severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.

How can legal counsel help in fighting traffic violation charges?

Legal counsel can provide knowledgeable guidance to navigate your case, potentially securing more favorable results. An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal process, build a strong defense, and work towards minimizing the consequences of the traffic violation.

Should I hire a lawyer for my traffic violation case?

Hiring a lawyer for a traffic violation case can be beneficial, as legal representation can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, understand your rights, and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case. An experienced attorney can provide valuable support and advocacy throughout the legal proceedings.

Contact us for help.

If you were arrested for a traffic violation, you may feel a little overwhelmed and intimidated by the process. At the Law Offices of Vincent Hughes in San Bernardino, we could provide the knowledgeable legal counsel you need to navigate your case so that you can secure the most favorable results possible. Reach out to our law office today to schedule a case evaluation and learn more about what we could do to help you.

Your Advocate, Your Voice, Your Justice Stop worrying
about your case.
We can help.

Book Online Today
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 909-281-2160.
Contact Us