In Illinois, many drivers will get a traffic ticket at some point in their lives.
Traffic tickets are among the most common legal issues drivers face in Illinois. While some violations may seem minor, even a single ticket can lead to fines, points on your license, and increased insurance rates.
This guide breaks down the most common traffic ticket violations in Illinois and the more serious offenses that can carry heavier penalties.
What Is a Traffic Ticket?
A traffic ticket is issued when a driver violates Illinois traffic laws. Most traffic tickets are considered petty offenses resulting in fines and points on your license.
The list of traffic offenses in Illinois runs in the hundreds, ranging from petty tickets to aggravated speeding.
Many drivers refer to tickets as “minor” or “major,” though the legal system typically classifies them as petty offenses or misdemeanors.
Petty Offenses (Minor Violations)
Minor traffic tickets are typically everyday driving violations, including petty speeding, tailgating, school zone speeding, and minor traffic infractions:
Petty Speeding
When you go over the speed limit by less than 25 mph, you’ll be given a petty speeding ticket. This typically results in paying a fine and points added to your license. The amount added depends on several factors, including:
- Whether this was your first traffic ticket violation.
- The speed you were travelling at.
Tailgating
Also known as following too closely, tailgating is following the car in front of you too closely. How close you were isn’t about keeping a certain distance or being seconds away from a vehicle. In Illinois, drivers are required to follow cars in a “reasonable and prudent manner,” about speed, traffic, and the condition of the highway (625 ILCS5/11-704).
Usually, you’ll be given a tailgating ticket under two circumstances:
- Car Accident: If an accident occurs and a witness claims you were tailgating, which led to the accident.
- Police Witness: If a police officer witnesses you following too closely, you will likely receive a traffic ticket.
Tailgating tickets can result in fines and 25 points on your license.
School Zone Speeding
If you’re driving in a school zone in Illinois, you’re legally required to drive 20 mph or less during school hours when children are present. School hours are usually between 6.30 am and 4 pm.
A school zone should be clearly marked by signs, and could extend a few hundred feet on either side of the school.
Other Traffic Ticket Violations
Other ticket violations in Illinois include:
- Failure to yield
- Red light tickets
- Texting while driving
- Unsafe lane changes.
If you receive a traffic ticket, it’s important to speak to an Illinois traffic ticket lawyer. They’ll access the charges and evidence, helping put together a defense strategy.
Major Misdemeanors
Major violations carry heavier penalties and may result in higher fines, court appearances, and, in some cases, a criminal record or even jail time.
DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious traffic-related offenses. It can result in immediate license suspension, heavy fines, and possible jail time.
The type of DUI you’re charged with depends on the following:
- A first or second-offense DUI
- A cannabis DUI
- A DUI for CDL holders
- A DUI for nurses
- An underage DUI.
Aggravated Speeding
Simply put, aggravated speeding is when a driver exceeds the speed limit by a significant amount.
In Illinois, there are two levels of aggravated speeding:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Driving between 26 and 34 mph over the speed limit. This could result in up to six months in jail and a fine of $1,500.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Driving over 35 mph over the speed limit, resulting in possible jail time of up to a year and a $2,500 fine.
An Accident
Whether you were directly or indirectly involved in a traffic accident, you could be presented with a traffic ticket.
An accident-based traffic ticket can be issued for violations such as speeding, reckless driving, or failure to yield. Less serious offenses usually result in fines and points on your license.
However, major accidents, such as reckless driving, could result in more severe consequences, like 55 points on your license and possible jail time.
If you receive a traffic ticket for causing an accident, reach out to a traffic ticket lawyer as soon as possible. They’ll help you review all of your options and put a game plan in place to build up your defense.
What to Do If You Receive a Traffic Ticket
Traffic tickets are a common part of driving in Illinois, but they can have a lasting impact on your record.
If you receive a traffic ticket, taking the right steps early can significantly improve the outcome of your case. You’ll need an experienced traffic attorney on your side, helping to gather evidence and plan your options.
