What is the Difference Between an Infraction and a Misdemeanor in Virginia?

You might be confused what exactly a traffic offense is. There are two main types of traffic offenses: an infraction and a misdemeanor.

Usually what you think of in regard to a traffic offense is a simple infraction that is usually penalized with a fine and points on a person’s driving record. Some traffic infractions include speeding and running a red light, all of which are punishable by a fine and points on your record.

In Virginia there are a few traffic offenses that are to be charged as a misdemeanor. Some of these being reckless driving and driving on a suspended license. Misdemeanors carry a heavier punishment which can result in jail time and will appear in a criminal background check.

If you are holding a ticket for a traffic offense it is important to know whether you are facing an infraction or a misdemeanor. This is one reason why a reckless driving charge is so significant in Virginia. Reckless driving carries potential jail time and will show up on a criminal background check. There are many ways to fight a reckless driving charge to eliminate or reduce the charge. Contact our office today for a free case evaluation. Our attorneys have experience in courts throughout Hampton Roads, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Isle of Wight, Hampton, and Newport News.