Sunday, October 20, 2019

Differences Between Traffic Infractions and Offenses

Photo by Samuele Errico Piccarini on Unsplash

Denver personal injury attorney Gabriel Schwartz has represented clients involved in auto accidents and moving violations. As co-founder of the Denver law firm, Justice for Colorado, Gabriel Schwartz focuses on traffic ticket cases for multiple types of traffic violations.

In Colorado, traffic violations are divided into two categories: offenses and infractions. Infractions are the less serious of the two and, as a result, do not result in jail time. Yet, infractions can also range in severity.

Class A infractions, such as running a red light or tailgating, can add points to a driver’s license in addition to a fine. However, driving without a seatbelt and other Class B infractions only result in fines. Meanwhile, traffic offenses carry fines, possible jail time, and increase insurance points.

Like infractions, offenses are divided into hierarchical categories, with Class 1 offenses ranked as more serious. Class 1 offenses include negligence resulting in injury and driving without insurance, and can result in up to one year in jail. Class 2 offenses, such as reckless driving, can be punished by a fine of up to $300 or 90 days of jail time.