Traffic Tickets in Michigan

What This Means for You: Michigan uses a point system to track traffic violations. Accumulate too many points and you face license suspension, mandatory driver improvement courses, and skyrocketing insurance rates. Every ticket you pay adds points to your record.

Common Violations and Points

• Speeding 1-10 mph over - 2 points
• Speeding 11-15 mph over - 3 points
• Speeding 16+ mph over - 4 points
• Reckless Driving - 6 points
• Careless Driving - 3 points
• Disobeying Traffic Signal - 3 points
• Improper Lane Use - 2 points
• Following Too Closely - 3 points

Consequences of Points

• 4 points in 2 years - Warning letter and possible reexamination
• 8 points in 2 years - Mandatory driver improvement course
• 12 points in 2 years - License suspension
• Insurance increases - Each point can raise rates 20-30%

How Long Points Stay on Your Record

Points remain on your driving record for 2 years from the date of conviction. However, the conviction itself stays on your record for 7 years and continues to affect insurance rates.

What This Means for You: Speeding tickets are the most common traffic violation in Michigan. The penalties depend on how fast you were going and where. Even a minor speeding ticket adds points to your license and increases insurance rates for years.

Speeding Penalties

• 1-5 mph over - $100-150 fine, 1 point (civil infraction)
• 6-10 mph over - $125-175 fine, 2 points
• 11-15 mph over - $150-200 fine, 3 points
• 16-25 mph over - $200-300 fine, 4 points
• 26+ mph over - $300+ fine, 4 points, possible reckless driving charge

Defenses to Speeding Tickets

• Radar/Lidar Calibration - Challenge accuracy of speed detection device
• Officer Training - Question officer's certification and training
• Weather Conditions - Visibility or conditions affecting reading
• Traffic Flow - You were matching speed of traffic for safety
• Emergency - Medical emergency or avoiding accident
• Mistaken Identity - Officer clocked wrong vehicle

School Zone and Construction Zone Violations

Speeding in school zones or construction zones carries doubled fines and additional penalties. These violations are taken very seriously by courts.

What This Means for You: Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor, not just a traffic ticket. A conviction means a permanent criminal record, up to 93 days in jail, and 6 points on your license. This is serious and requires aggressive defense.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving

• Excessive Speed - Driving 25+ mph over the limit
• Aggressive Driving - Weaving through traffic, tailgating
• Street Racing - Racing or drag racing on public roads
• Willful Disregard - Intentionally ignoring traffic laws
• Endangering Others - Driving that puts people at risk

Penalties for Reckless Driving

• Criminal Record - Permanent misdemeanor conviction
• Jail Time - Up to 93 days in jail
• Fines - Up to $500 plus court costs
• Points - 6 points on your license
• License Suspension - Possible suspension or restrictions
• Insurance - Massive rate increases or cancellation

Defenses to Reckless Driving

• Reduce to Careless Driving - Civil infraction instead of criminal
• Lack of Intent - No willful or wanton disregard
• Emergency Situation - Justified by circumstances
• Insufficient Evidence - Prosecution can't prove recklessness

What This Means for You: If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. Driving on a suspended license is a criminal offense with serious penalties. We can help you fight the suspension or get your license restored quickly.

Common Reasons for Suspension

• Too Many Points - 12 points in 2 years
• DUI/OWI - Drunk driving conviction
• Refusing Breath Test - Implied consent violation
• Unpaid Tickets - Failure to pay fines or appear in court
• No Insurance - Driving without insurance
• Drug Conviction - Any drug offense, even non-driving

Driving While License Suspended (DWLS)

• First Offense - Misdemeanor, up to 93 days jail, $500 fine
• Second Offense - Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine
• Extended Suspension - Additional suspension time added
• Vehicle Immobilization - Your car can be impounded

License Restoration Process

1. Determine Eligibility - Check suspension end date and requirements
2. Complete Requirements - Pay fines, take classes, SR-22 insurance
3. File Petition - Request hearing with Secretary of State
4. Attend Hearing - Present evidence of rehabilitation
5. Receive Decision - Full restoration or restricted license