What's the Difference Between a Citation and a Ticket?

If you've ever been pulled over and pulled over by law enforcement, you may have a question in your mind, “What's the difference between a citation and a ticket?” The short answer is simple: there isn’t a difference. The terms “ticket” and “citation” are used interchangeably, and are used to refer to a legal notice issued for a violation of a traffic law. Whether that speeding ticket, a parking ticket, they're all there to tell you you're in violation and you had better do something about it, pay a fine or appear in court.

Although the two words are pretty similar, one has more connotation and one has less connotation. We’ve also laid out below the nuances of tickets and citations, their legal repercussions and how they can affect you including your driving record and insurance rates.

• Why Understanding This Matters
  
• Tickets and Citations: What Are They?
  
• When Is the Term “Ticket” Used?
  
• When Is the Term “Citation” Used?
  
• Types of Violations and Their Consequences
  
• Moving Violations
  
• Non-Moving Violations
  
• Penalties and Their Impact
  
• Points System in Texas
  
• Impact on Insurance Rates
  
• What to Do If You Receive a Ticket or Citation
  
• Step 1: Review the Notice
  
• Step 2: Decide on Your Response
  
• Step 3: Seek Legal Assistance
  
• Avoiding Traffic Violations
  
• Stay Informed
  
• Closing Thoughts

Why Understanding This Matters

If you’re a Texas driver and especially a McAllen driver, the details of traffic violations will help you steer clear of any potential punishment and from expensive consequences. The Law Office of Rolando Cantu in McAllen, Texas, if you’re dealing with a serious traffic violation, will defend your rights and do what’s best to minimize the impact on your driving record. We’re prepared to provide expert advice and help now.

Tickets and Citations: What Are They?

Both tickets and citations are formal notices issued by law enforcement when a driver is found violating traffic laws. Despite their interchangeable use, the context often determines which term is used.

When Is the Term “Ticket” Used?

The word “ticket” is commonly used in informal situations. For example:

• Speeding Ticket: You’ll hear this term when referencing a violation of posted speed limits.
  
• Parking Ticket: This term typically applies to violations involving improperly parked vehicles.
  
• Insurance Discussions: Insurance companies often use the term “ticket” when discussing your driving record.

Tickets are what most people think of when they imagine being stopped by the police for a traffic infraction.

When Is the Term “Citation” Used?

On the other hand, “citation” tends to be a more formal term used in legal or official contexts, such as:

• Court Documents: When you’re required to pay a fine or contest the infraction in court.
• Online Payments: Citation numbers are often required when paying fines online.
• Serious Violations: For more severe offenses, like reckless driving or a DWI.

While both terms describe the same thing, the setting and severity of the violation can influence which one you hear.

You might be interested: What is Criminal Speeding?

Types of Violations and Their Consequences

Traffic violations in Texas fall into two main categories: moving violations and non-moving violations. Each type carries its own penalties and potential impacts on your driving record and insurance premiums.

Moving Violations

These occur when your vehicle is in motion and you violate traffic laws. Some examples include:

1. Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit is one of the most common violations. Penalties include fines, points on your driving record, and potentially higher insurance rates.

2. Reckless Driving
This involves operating a vehicle in a way that endangers others, such as excessive speeding or street racing. Reckless driving can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, license suspension, and hefty fines.

3. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
A DWI conviction is one of the most serious violations. Penalties include steep fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and even imprisonment.

4. Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
Ignoring traffic signals can result in accidents and adds points to your record.

Non-Moving Violations

Non-moving violations happen when your car is stationary or there’s an issue unrelated to how you’re driving. Examples include:

1. Expired Registration
Operating a vehicle with expired tags can lead to fines and a citation.

2. Parking Violations
Illegal parking, such as in a fire lane, can result in fines and potential towing.

3. Equipment Violations

Broken headlights or improper display of license plates can lead to a citation.

Penalties and Their Impact

Points System in Texas

Texas uses a point system to track violations. Points are added to your driving record for moving violations:

• 2 points: For minor moving violations.
  
• 3 points: For violations involving an accident.

If you accumulate six or more points within three years, you’ll face additional surcharges and potential license suspension.

Impact on Insurance Rates

Traffic violations often lead to increased insurance premiums. Here’s how different infractions can affect your rates:

• Minor Violations: Speeding slightly over the limit might result in modest increases.
• Major Violations: Reckless driving or a DWI can significantly spike premiums or even lead to policy cancellation.
• Repeat Offenses: Multiple violations may classify you as a high-risk driver, limiting your options for affordable insurance.

Related: Is a Parking Ticket a Criminal Offense?

What to Do If You Receive a Ticket or Citation

Step 1: Review the Notice

Carefully examine the ticket or citation to understand the violation, associated penalties, and required actions.

Step 2: Decide on Your Response

You typically have three options:

1. Pay the Fine: Admitting guilt and accepting the consequences.
   
2. Contest the Violation: Present your case in court.
   
3. Take a Defensive Driving Course: Dismiss minor violations and avoid points on your record (eligibility varies).

Step 3: Seek Legal Assistance

For serious violations, consulting an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. The Law Office of Rolando Cantu in McAllen, Texas, offers personalized legal support to protect your driving record and reduce penalties. Contact them today to discuss your case.

Avoiding Traffic Violations

Stay Informed

The first line of defense against traffic laws violations is to understand Texas traffic laws. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Obey Speed Limits: Figure your speed to road conditions.
• Use Turn Signals: Accidents and fines can all be prevented by proper signaling.
• Avoid Distractions: Don’t put your phone down. Stay focused on the road.
• Plan Ahead: If you’ve been drinking use a designated driver or rideshare service.

Also read: Do Arrests Show Up on Background Checks?

Closing Thoughts

The words 'ticket' and 'citation' are the same thing, but the contexts for both can help you know how to deal, or avoid being dealt with, for traffic violations. The stakes are high in fines and license points, insurance rate hikes and even your driver’s credibility. While it’s not possible to eliminate all violations and penalties, it is possible to avoid them and address them as soon as possible – this will save you time, money and stress.

The Law Office of Rolando Cantu in McAllen is here to help in the event you’re being served with a serious traffic violation in Texas. Their experienced Attorneys are ready to assist you through the legal procedure and struggle to get most out of it. Call today for a consultation — don’t let a ticket or citation define your driving record.