Many drivers in New York may wonder whether there’s a difference between a citation and a ticket when they receive a notice from law enforcement. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle distinctions that could impact how you address a traffic violation. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone looking to avoid fines, points on their license, or even more severe penalties. At The Law Office of Craig Bondy, we have extensive experience helping clients navigate New York’s traffic laws. If you’ve received a citation or ticket, contact us today for expert legal advice.

What is a Traffic Citation?

A traffic citation is a formal notice issued by law enforcement when a driver is accused of violating a traffic law. It serves as a legal document that outlines the offense, such as speeding, running a red light, or reckless driving. A citation typically includes important details such as the driver’s information, the specific law that was violated, and the date, time, and location of the offense. In New York, receiving a citation doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have to appear in court; in some cases, you can resolve it by paying a fine. However, depending on the severity of the violation, it could lead to penalties like points on your license, increased insurance rates, or even a court appearance. Understanding the implications of a traffic citation is key to protecting your driving record.

If you’ve been issued a traffic citation and need guidance, The Law Office of Craig Bondy can help you explore your options.

What is a Traffic Ticket?

A traffic ticket is a notice issued by law enforcement when a driver is accused of breaking a traffic law. Much like a traffic citation, a ticket informs the driver of the alleged violation, such as speeding, running a stop sign, or failing to yield. A ticket can be either a moving violation (such as speeding) or a non-moving violation (such as parking illegally). Traffic tickets typically come with consequences like fines, points on your driver’s license, and potential increases in insurance premiums. In New York, depending on the violation, a traffic ticket may require you to appear in court or can be resolved by paying the associated fine.

If you’ve received a traffic ticket in New York and are unsure of what steps to take, The Law Office of Craig Bondy can provide the legal advice you need to protect your record.

What Is the Difference Between a Citation and a Ticket?

Terminology and Usage

One of the main differences between a citation and a ticket is how the terms are used. A “citation” is a broader legal term used to refer to any written notice issued by law enforcement when a driver violates a traffic law. A “ticket,” on the other hand, is more commonly used in everyday language to describe the same document. Essentially, a traffic ticket is the physical notice you receive, while a citation refers to the formal legal process that has begun because of the violation. In New York, these terms are often used interchangeably.

Legal Implications

While citations and tickets refer to the same violation, their legal implications can differ depending on the type of offense. For example, a citation for a serious moving violation like reckless driving or DWI may require a court appearance, whereas a less severe ticket for a non-moving violation, such as illegal parking, may only result in a fine. In this sense, citations can be seen as encompassing more severe violations, while tickets often apply to less serious infractions.

Court Appearances and Penalties

A key difference between citations and tickets can be the requirement for a court appearance. Some citations, especially those involving misdemeanors or more serious traffic violations, may necessitate a court date where the driver must contest or accept the charge. Tickets for minor violations, such as speeding or failing to signal, can typically be resolved by paying a fine. However, ignoring either a citation or ticket can lead to more severe penalties, including additional fines, license suspension, or even arrest warrants.

Resolving a Citation or Ticket

The steps for resolving a citation or ticket are generally the same. Both may involve either contesting the charge in court or paying a fine before the deadline. However, if you’re unsure of how to handle a citation or ticket, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. Understanding the difference can help you take the appropriate steps to avoid long-term consequences like points on your license or increased insurance rates.

If you’ve received a citation or ticket in New York, contact The Law Office of Craig Bondy today for skilled legal representation. We’ll help you understand your options and fight to protect your driving record.

Most Common Traffic Tickets

Speeding Tickets

Speeding is one of the most common traffic violations in New York. A speeding ticket is issued when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit. Depending on how far over the limit a driver was, penalties can range from fines and points on their license to potential license suspension for excessive speeding. Multiple speeding tickets can result in higher insurance premiums and even the loss of driving privileges.

Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

Another frequent violation is running a red light or failing to stop at a stop sign. These offenses are considered moving violations and carry penalties such as fines, points on your license, and the potential for increased insurance costs. In New York City, red light cameras are also commonly used to capture violations, issuing tickets even when a police officer is not present.

Distracted Driving

New York has strict laws against distracted driving, particularly regarding the use of cell phones and electronic devices while behind the wheel. Drivers caught texting, making calls without a hands-free device, or using a phone in any capacity while driving can receive a traffic ticket. These tickets can result in hefty fines, points on your license, and increased insurance rates.

Failure to Yield

Failing to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles is a common traffic violation, especially in congested areas like New York City. These tickets often occur when drivers don’t follow right-of-way rules at intersections or pedestrian crossings. The penalties for failing to yield can include fines, points on your license, and even court appearances in some cases.

Illegal Parking

Although a non-moving violation, parking tickets are another common infraction in New York. Drivers may receive tickets for parking in restricted zones, overstaying time limits at meters, or blocking fire hydrants. Parking tickets usually result in fines, but failure to address them promptly can lead to additional penalties or even vehicle towing.

If you’ve received any of these common traffic tickets, The Law Office of Craig Bondy is here to help you fight the charges and avoid long-term consequences. Contact us today for experienced legal assistance.

The Law Office of Craig Bondy Is Here to Help

If you’ve received a traffic citation or ticket in New York, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Understanding your rights and options is crucial to protecting your driving record and minimizing potential penalties. At The Law Office of Craig Bondy, our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation to help you contest your ticket effectively. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us work together to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.