Unlike a civil traffic infraction (think: speeding ticket), a criminal traffic ticket alleges that you have committed a criminal offense and may result in a misdemeanor or a felony charge.
Examples of Criminal Traffic Misdemeanors
- Driving without your driver’s license on your person.
- Driving without auto insurance.
- Traffic offenses involving alcohol (misdemeanor or felony). This can result in suspension of your driving privileges, points on your driving record, a criminal conviction that cannot be deferred or expunged, driver responsibility fees, court costs, and/or a period of court-ordered probation.
Previously, misdemeanor offenses under the Motor Vehicle Code could not be deferred from your record. Following a recent change to Michigan’s “expungement” laws, most traffic offenses, a first-offense Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), or an Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) may be eligible to be set aside. See our Expungement page for more information.
Examples of Criminal Traffic Felonies
- Drunk Driving, known in Michigan as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), that results in serious bodily injury or death.
Potential Consequences
Criminal traffic offenses can carry the possibility of a jail or prison sentence depending on whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony. Other consequences may include suspension or revocation of your license, probation, community control, fines, traffic classes, and vehicle immobilization.
Potential Indirect Consequences
Indirect consequences may include, but are not limited to:
- Loss of insurance
- Increased insurance premiums
- Revocation of special licenses such as CDL
- Loss of employment