Traffic Ticket Lawyer Pennsylvania

How to read your traffic ticket in Pennsylvania

• • • Section 1

      Part 1 – Court, citation, driver & vehicle identifiers. The upper block shows the Magisterial District Court number, the Pennsylvania “Traffic Citation” header, and your unique citation (MBPD/MDJ) number. It contains the officer/agency details and the “Defendant Name & Address.” It also lists your driver’s license number/state, DOB, sex, and contact details. Vehicle information appears here as well (primary/trailing vehicle plate number/state/class, VIN, make/model, year, color). The owner/lessor name/address may also be noted. Everything in this area ties the ticket to you and your vehicle and tells the court where the case will be filed.

    • Section 2

      Part 2 – Charges and money amounts. This middle block is where the officer selects the violation type (speeding, signs/signals, careless/reckless, inspection/registration, operating while suspended, etc.) and cites the specific Title 75 Pa.C.S. statute/ordinance section. It also shows the speed details when applicable (alleged speed, posted limit, zone, device used), and whether a warning/accident is involved. The right column lists what you will owe: base fine, EMS, surcharges, statutory costs, and the calculated Total Due. If “Lab Services Requested” or similar boxes are ticked, they’ll also appear here.

    • Section 3

      Part 3 – Location, signatures, narrative & notice. This lower block explains where and when the violation occurred (location, route, municipality/county, date and time) and whether fines are doubled (Active Work Zone or Highway Safety Corridor). It includes your acknowledgment/receipt area, the officer’s signature/badge number, station address/contact, and equipment details (timing device/operator, serial numbers). If the officer adds a narrative or remarks/subpoena list, it appears here. The large NOTICE panel at the bottom explains points, license suspension risks, and work-zone doubling rules. Use these details when deciding to pay, plead not guilty, or seek legal help.

FAQ’s

• • • • What is a moving violation in PA?

        A moving violation in Pennsylvania refers to any violation of traffic laws committed by a driver while the vehicle is in motion. This can include offenses such as speeding, running red lights, failure to yield, reckless driving, and improper lane changes, among others. These violations are typically more serious than non-moving violations and can result in fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and even license suspension if accumulated in excess.

      • What is the most common moving violation in PA?

        One of the most common moving violations in Pennsylvania is speeding. Whether it’s exceeding the posted speed limit on highways or driving too fast in residential areas, speeding tickets are issued frequently across the state. Other common moving violations include running red lights, failure to yield, and improper lane changes.

      • How many points is a moving violation in PA?

        In Pennsylvania, the number of points assigned to a moving violation varies depending on the severity of the offense. For example, speeding violations typically range from 2 to 5 points, while more serious offenses like reckless driving can result in 6 points or more.

      • How do I reopen a ticket in PA?

        To reopen a ticket in Pennsylvania, you typically need to file a motion with the court that handled your case. This process can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your ticket and the court’s procedures. Reasons for reopening may include new evidence or errors in the initial proceedings.

      • How long does a moving violation stay on your record in PA?

        In Pennsylvania, moving violations generally stay on your driving record for about three years from the date of the conviction. During this period, they can impact your insurance rates and driving privileges.

      • Do points transfer from NY to PA?

        Yes, points from traffic violations in New York can transfer to Pennsylvania since both states are members of the Driver License Compact (DLC). The DLC allows participating states to share information about traffic violations and suspensions.

      • How much is a speeding ticket in PA?

        The cost of a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania varies depending on how far over the limit you were going and where the violation occurred. Fines generally range from $40 to $300, plus court costs and surcharges.

      • Do points transfer from PA to NJ?

        Yes, points from traffic violations in Pennsylvania can transfer to New Jersey because both states are members of the Driver License Compact (DLC). This means violations in PA can impact your NJ driving record.

      • What is a non-moving violation in PA?

        A non-moving violation in Pennsylvania refers to a traffic offense that doesn’t involve the vehicle being in motion. Examples include parking violations, expired registrations, tinted windows, and equipment violations.

      • How many points are most moving violations worth?

        Most moving violations in Pennsylvania are worth 2 to 5 points depending on severity. For example, speeding may carry 2 to 5 points, running a red light 3 points, and reckless driving 6 points or more.