The state of New York classifies traffic offenses in various ways that lead to different consequences.
If you drive in New York, you should learn about traffic misdemeanors and avoid breaking the law. In addition, it is useful to know how to react if you receive a traffic ticket that includes a misdemeanor charge.
Types of traffic charges
Minor traffic violations, such as speeding or failing to use a turn signal, are often infractions. These typically result in fines and points on your license. The law considers more serious offenses crimes. Some driving violations are felonies in New York. For example, if law enforcement finds you operating your car with a suspended license, you could receive a felony charge.
Traffic misdemeanors
Some traffic-related misdemeanors include reckless driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and leaving the scene of an accident. Driving a car that lacks proper registration can lead to a misdemeanor charge. You could also receive a misdemeanor by failing to appear in court after receiving certain tickets.
Handling a misdemeanor
In addition to higher fines and more points on your license, more severe consequences sometimes follow misdemeanor charges. A court can suspend your license or order you to undergo a driver responsibility assessment. You could even receive probation or jail time as part of your sentence.
If you get a traffic ticket with a misdemeanor charge, you are responsible for showing up at court to deal with the situation. Failure to appear can result in a warrant for your arrest and a suspension of your driver’s license.
As a driver, which offenses are misdemeanors can help you handle traffic tickets and avoid breaking the law.