Traffic violations in Providence range from civil infractions (speeding, running red lights, failure to yield, failure to use a turn signal) to criminal traffic offenses (driving on a suspended license, reckless driving, eluding police, DUI, leaving the scene of an accident). Civil infractions carry fines and points on your license but no criminal record. Criminal traffic offenses carry possible jail time, larger fines, and a permanent criminal record. The line between civil and criminal can shift based on aggravating factors like speed, prior record, or whether anyone was hurt. The category your case falls into determines the court, the procedure, and the stakes.
