What Is a Traffic Infraction

What Is a Traffic Infraction? Understanding Minor vs. Major Violations

Most drivers will face a traffic stop at some point in their lives. Whether it’s for speeding, failing to yield, or forgetting to signal, these encounters often result in a traffic infraction—but what exactly does that mean?

Understanding the difference between minor and major traffic violations can help you respond appropriately, protect your driving record, and avoid escalating legal consequences. In this blog, we’ll break down what qualifies as a traffic infraction, how it’s different from a criminal offense, and what you should do if you receive one.

What Is a Traffic Infraction?

A traffic infraction is a violation of traffic laws or regulations. It is considered a civil offense rather than a criminal one, which means it typically doesn’t result in jail time. However, infractions can lead to:

• Fines and court fees

• Points on your driving record

• License suspension (in repeat or severe cases)

• Higher car insurance premiums

Traffic infractions are enforced by law enforcement officers and processed through the local traffic or municipal court system.

Traffic Infractions vs. Traffic Misdemeanors or Felonies

It’s important to distinguish between infractions and more serious traffic offenses:

Examples of Minor Traffic Infractions

Minor violations are typically non-dangerous or technical in nature. They include:

• Speeding (less than 10–15 mph over the limit)

• Failing to signal

• Rolling through a stop sign

• Expired registration or tags

• Broken taillight or headlight

• Improper lane change

• Parking violations

In most cases, these infractions result in a citation or ticket. You may have the option to pay the fine, contest it in court, or attend traffic school (if eligible) to avoid points on your license.

Examples of Major Traffic Violations

Major infractions are more serious and can carry heavier penalties. Some may even border on criminal conduct, depending on your state. Examples include:

• Speeding in a construction or school zone

• Driving without insurance

• Running a red light results in an accident

• Reckless driving (may be charged as a misdemeanor in some cases)

• Excessive speeding (20+ mph over the limit)

• Passing a stopped school bus

Although still classified as infractions in some jurisdictions, these violations are treated more seriously due to the higher risk of injury or property damage.

How Do Traffic Infractions Affect Your Driving Record?

Even a single infraction can result in points on your license, depending on your state’s point system. Accumulating too many points within a certain timeframe can lead to:

• License suspension or revocation

• Mandatory driver education courses

• Increased insurance rates

• Designation as a high-risk driver

For example, in many states:

• 1 point might be assessed for a minor speeding ticket

• 2 points for more serious infractions like running a red light

• 3+ points for offenses involving accidents or endangerment

Can You Fight a Traffic Infraction?

Yes—and in some cases, you should. You can:

1. Pay the ticket (admitting fault)

2. Request traffic school (if eligible)

3. Contest the ticket in court (to avoid points or penalties)

Contesting the ticket may be worthwhile if:

• You believe the officer was mistaken

• The equipment (e.g., radar gun) was inaccurate

• There were extenuating circumstances

If you’re unsure, consult a traffic attorney—especially if you’re facing a major violation or multiple tickets.

How the Law Office of Adin Johnson Can Help

If you’ve received a traffic citation in Vancouver, WA, you don’t have to pay the ticket and accept the consequences simply. At the Law Office of Adin Johnson, we help drivers contest traffic infractions and fight to keep their records clean.

Our Approach Includes:

• Detailed Case Review
  We carefully examine the circumstances of your citation to determine whether the ticket was issued lawfully and whether there are grounds for dismissal.

• Disputing the Evidence
  From questioning the accuracy of radar devices to highlighting procedural errors, we know how to challenge the ticket’s validity.

• Minimizing the Impact
  When appropriate, we negotiate with the court for reduced penalties, deferrals, or mitigation that can help protect your license and insurance rates.

• Representation in Court
  We appear on your behalf whenever possible, saving you time and helping you avoid unnecessary stress.

• Tailored Legal Advice
  Every situation is different. We’ll work with you to understand your goals and pursue the best possible resolution for your case.