What is the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Traffic Violations?

Knowing the difference between a criminal and non-criminal traffic violation can help you decide when you might consider seeking legal help. 

Criminal traffic offenses are considered misdemeanors or, possibly, felony offenses. The following are considered criminal misdemeanor traffic violations: reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, DWLS (driving while your license is suspended), open intoxicants, OWI, OWI High BAC, OWI 2^nd offense. The following are considered criminal felony traffic violations:  fleeing and eluding the police, unlawfully driving away a vehicle (UDAA), OWI 3^rd Offense, OWI causing serious bodily injury or death.  

Non-criminal offenses are referred to as “civil infractions” including speeding, failing to stop or yield, improper turning, careless driving. There may be several reasons why you’d want to avoid a civil infraction, because of higher insurance premiums or other fines, for example. 

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Need Your Driver’s License Reinstated in Michigan?

If you’re facing a criminal traffic offense in Washtenaw County or Southeastern Michigan, and you want to discuss options, please call or email Dan Geherin, criminal defense attorney in Ann Arbor 24/7 at (734) 263-2780 or online info@GLGMichigan.com.