If you’ve received a traffic ticket in North Carolina, you may be wondering, “Is a traffic violation a crime?”. The answer depends on the severity of the offense. While most traffic violations are minor infractions, some carry criminal penalties that can affect your record, finances, and even your freedom.

Understanding the difference between an infraction and a crime is crucial. A simple ticket may seem insignificant, but certain violations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges. If you’re unsure how your traffic violation could impact you, seeking skilled legal help before responding is essential.

Traffic Infractions vs. Criminal Traffic Offenses

Most traffic tickets are infractions, meaning they violate traffic laws but do not carry criminal penalties. Speeding, running a stop sign, and failing to signal are common infractions. These violations can result in fines, points on your license, and higher insurance rates but will not appear on a criminal record.

However, the question, "Is a traffic violation a crime?" becomes more relevant when it comes to serious offenses. Some traffic violations are more serious and can lead to criminal charges. Reckless driving, driving while impaired (DWI), hit-and-run accidents, and driving with a suspended or revoked license are considered criminal offenses. These violations can result in jail time, significant fines, and long-term consequences on your record.

When Does a Traffic Violation Become a Crime?

In North Carolina, a traffic violation can escalate to a criminal offense depending on the circumstances. A speeding ticket of ten to fifteen miles over the speeding limit, for example, is typically an infraction. However, higher speeds are frequently criminal offenses. Additionally, if you are caught driving at high speeds or otherwise without due caution and circumspection, you could be charged with reckless driving, which is a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Reckless driving is considered a criminal offense and carries penalties such as fines, community service, and even jail time. If a violation involves serious property damage or injuries, it may be elevated to a felony charge, leading to even harsher penalties, including prison time and long-term license suspension.

Reckless Driving: A Serious Criminal Charge

Reckless driving is one of the most common criminal traffic offenses in North Carolina. While many drivers assume a speeding ticket is a minor issue, excessive speed or aggressive driving can lead to criminal charges.

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle “carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others.” If an officer believes your driving behavior is dangerous, you could be charged with a crime. A conviction can lead to:

• High fines
• Increased insurance rates
• License suspension
• Jail time

Since reckless driving is a misdemeanor, it can also appear on your permanent record, impacting job opportunities and background checks.

Driving With a Suspended or Revoked License

Operating a vehicle without a valid license is another traffic offense that can result in criminal charges. If your license is suspended or revoked and you are caught driving, you may face a misdemeanor charge. Penalties can include additional license suspension time, heavy fines, and even jail.

Repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances, such as driving under the influence, can lead to felony charges. In these cases, what might seem like a simple mistake can have severe legal consequences.

Hit-and-Run: Misdemeanor or Felony?

Leaving the scene of an accident, commonly known as a hit-and-run, can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the accident only results in property damage and you leave without reporting it, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. However, if someone is injured or killed and you flee the scene, you may face felony charges.

A felony hit-and-run conviction carries severe consequences, including hefty fines, license suspension, and potential prison time. If you are involved in an accident, it’s always best to remain at the scene, exchange information, and contact law enforcement immediately. Fleeing the scene is not an option, and almost always has permanent repercussions.

How Can a Lawyer Help with a Criminal Traffic Charge?

Facing a criminal traffic charge in North Carolina can be stressful, but the right legal representation can make a difference. Our knowledgeable attorney team can assess your case, determine the best defense strategy, and help you navigate the legal process.

At Reece & Reece, our Johnston County defense attorneys understand North Carolina’s traffic laws and the impact a criminal traffic charge can have on your life. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we are here to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Our team will analyze all of the aspects of your case, challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and explore options for reducing or dismissing the charges.

Our client testimonials highlight our dedication and success in defending individuals against criminal traffic charges. If you have been charged with a serious traffic violation, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact Reece & Reece today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.