Getting pulled over and handed a ticket or citation is stressful for any driver. No one wants to deal with the fines, points on your license, or the potential increase in insurance rates that can follow.
It’s also common to wonder, “Wait, is there even a difference between a ticket and a citation?” The terms are often used interchangeably by law enforcement, but it’s a valid question.
This article will clarify what’s really meant by “ticket” versus “citation,” explain the potential consequences of receiving one, and give you some guidance on how to handle a traffic violation if it happens to you. Knowing the difference between a ticket vs citation can save you a lot of worry and prepare you for your next course of action.
Ticket vs. Citation: What’s the difference?
In the world of traffic law, you’ll often hear the words “ticket” and “citation” thrown around. So what exactly is the difference?
Well, a ticket is basically a notice from a law enforcement officer that you’ve committed a traffic violation. And a citation? It’s the exact same thing. Legally speaking, the terms are interchangeable.
You might be wondering why we even have two words for the same thing. Sometimes “citation” sounds more official, so officers or courts might use it for formal paperwork. “Ticket” is just more casual.
Here’s the important part: no matter what you call it – ticket or citation – you’re still responsible for dealing with the violation. Don’t think you can get out of a “ticket” just because the officer called it that!
Moving vs. non-moving violations
Tickets and citations are generally grouped into one of two types: moving violations and non-moving violations.
Moving violations
A moving violation is a traffic offense that occurs while the vehicle is in motion. These are viewed as more serious offenses and tend to come with steeper penalties.
Here are a few examples of common moving violations:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Reckless driving
- Failing to signal when turning or changing lanes
Non-moving violations
Non-moving violations are offenses that occur when the vehicle isn’t moving or when the offense isn’t directly related to driving the vehicle. These violations are usually less serious than moving violations and usually only result in a fine.
Here are some examples of non-moving violations:
- Parking violations
- Expired vehicle registration
- Equipment violations, like having faulty lights
- Insurance violations, like not having current insurance
- Seatbelt violations
- Having illegally tinted windows
Penalties and Consequences of Citations and Tickets
So, you’ve got a ticket or citation in hand. What happens next? The consequences can range from a minor financial hit to serious legal trouble, depending on the nature of the infraction.
Financial Penalties
Expect to pay a fine. The exact amount will depend on the violation and the local laws where it occurred. A simple parking ticket will cost less than a speeding ticket, and a speeding ticket will cost less than a citation for reckless driving. Don’t forget to factor in court costs and administrative fees, which can add a surprising amount to the total.
Impact on Driving Record
Many moving violations will add points to your driving record. If you accumulate too many points within a specific timeframe, your driver’s license could be suspended. The number of points assigned to each violation varies by state, so it’s worth checking your local DMV’s point system.
Citations usually stay on your driving record for a set period, typically ranging from three to five years, although some states may keep them on file longer. This record can affect your insurance rates and even your employment opportunities if your job requires driving.
Legal Repercussions
More serious offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI/DWI) or reckless driving, can lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. These charges can result in jail time, probation, a criminal record, and hefty fines. The legal ramifications can be life-altering, affecting your ability to secure employment, housing, and even travel.
How do tickets and citations affect car insurance rates?
Insurance companies look at your driving record when they decide how much to charge you for car insurance. A history of tickets and citations tells them you’re more likely to be in an accident, which makes you a higher risk to insure.
Just how much can a ticket or citation raise your rates? It varies, but here are a few examples:
- Speeding ticket: can cause rates to rise anywhere from 29% to 70%
- DUI/DWI: can nearly triple your insurance premiums
- Even a single speeding citation can increase your basic auto coverage by 35%
Depending on the number and severity of your violations, the insurance company may even cancel your coverage.
Ticket forgiveness programs
Some insurance companies offer “ticket forgiveness,” which means that one minor ticket won’t cause your rates to go up. However, these programs aren’t available everywhere, and there are usually some requirements you have to meet to be eligible.
SR-22 requirements
If you’ve committed a serious violation, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may be required to file an SR-22 form. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you have car insurance coverage. Filing an SR-22 usually leads to much higher insurance premiums.
Options for Resolving or Contesting a Ticket
If you’ve received a traffic ticket, you generally have a few options for dealing with it, and each option comes with its own set of consequences.
Paying the Fine
Paying the fine is the simplest way to resolve a ticket, but it’s also an admission of guilt. Paying the fine usually means points will be added to your driving record, which could affect your insurance rates.
Contesting the Ticket in Court
You have the right to fight a ticket in court. This involves gathering evidence, presenting your defense, and possibly cross-examining witnesses. Contesting a ticket can be time-consuming and may not always be successful, but it gives you the chance to argue your case before a judge.
If you decide to contest a ticket, it’s a good idea to talk with an attorney. A lawyer who specializes in traffic law can assess your case and help you decide on the best course of action.
Mitigation Hearings
A mitigation hearing is another option. In this type of hearing, you admit you committed the violation but can explain the circumstances and ask for a reduced fine or other leniency. This might be a good option if you have a valid excuse for the violation but don’t want to go through a full trial.
Traffic School
In some cases, you may be able to attend traffic school to prevent points from being added to your driving record. Completing a traffic school course can help you avoid the negative consequences of a ticket, such as increased insurance rates.
How to lower car insurance rates after getting a ticket
A traffic ticket can push up your car insurance rates, but there are a few things you can do to get your rates back down:
- Shop around. Don’t just stick with your current insurance company. Get quotes from at least three other insurers to see if you can find a better deal.
- Bundle policies. If you also need home or renter’s insurance, see if you can bundle it with your auto insurance for a discount.
- Raise your deductible. A higher deductible means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if you have an accident, but it can lower your monthly premium. Just make sure you can afford the higher deductible if you need to use it.
- Take a defensive driving course. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete a defensive driving course. It also shows them you’re serious about being a safe driver.
- Keep your record clean. Avoid getting any more tickets or causing accidents. The longer you go without incidents, the better your driving record will look, and the lower your insurance rates will eventually become.
Wrapping Up
So, what’s the difference between a ticket and a citation? Not much. They’re basically two words for the same thing: an official notice that you’ve violated a traffic law. Different law enforcement agencies simply use different terms. Whether it’s called a ticket or a citation, it means you need to take action.
It’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of any traffic violation. A ticket can affect your driving record, lead to higher insurance rates, and even impact your legal standing. Ignoring a ticket is never a good idea.
Take proactive steps to address any ticket you receive. Explore your options for resolving it, whether that means paying the fine, attending traffic school, or contesting the ticket in court. The best approach will depend on the specific circumstances of your situation.
Ultimately, the best way to avoid the hassle and expense of tickets is to prioritize safe driving habits. Pay attention to speed limits, avoid distractions, and always drive defensively. Safe driving not only keeps you and others safe but also saves you money on insurance and legal fees.