According to Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there were 599,300 traffic convictions issued in 2023 alone. However, the most common tickets are easily avoided. It is important to understand the most common mistakes that lead to tickets so you can protect yourself and your driving privileges.
1. Speeding
Speeding Intermediate (11-19 over limit) is technically the first most common traffic conviction, accounting for 11.91% of total tickets. Speeding Excess (20 or more over limit) and Speeding (1-10 over speed limit) are also very common convictions, accounting for 6.64% and 6.14% of total convictions respectively. So speeding overall accounts for almost 25% of all traffic tickets in Wisconsin. The best way to avoid a speeding ticket is to drive the speed limit and ensure safe driving practices. Realistically speeding will not make a substantial difference in your arrival time and is not worth the elevated risk of an accident or getting a ticket.
2. Operating While Suspended (OWS)
Operating While Suspended (OWS) is the second most common traffic conviction, with 8.91% of total convictions in 2023. Your license may be suspended due to too many points accumulated on your driver’s license from traffic violations, driving without insurance, or repeat traffic violations, habitual recklessness, and/or negligent behavior. If your license is suspended and you still drive, then you will be issued an OWS. If your license is suspended, you must apply for an occupational license to operate a vehicle.
3. Compulsory Insurance – No Insurance
Compulsory Insurance – No Insurance (CNI) is the third most common traffic conviction, with 7.18% of total tickets. If you are a driver in Wisconsin, it is required that you hold insurance in case you are in an accident. If you do not have insurance, then you can receive a No Insurance ticket. The best way to avoid this ticket is to have insurance.
4. Unregistered Vehicle
To ensure that you don’t receive a ticket for an unregistered vehicle, you should keep your vehicle registration and proof of registration with you while driving. You must also display the up-to-date registration sticker on your license plate. Mark on your calendar when you need to renew your registration, so you don’t forget.
5. Operating While Intoxicated
Operating while under the influence intoxicant/controlled substance (OWI) accounts for 4.25% of all traffic convictions and is a serious offense. To avoid an OWI, it is important to have a designated driver if you are going out with other people to ensure that you have a safe sober person to drive you home. You can also call a ride-sharing service, such as an Uber, to pick you up if you are drinking. Do not drive if you have had something to drink, you put yourself and everyone else on the road at risk. If you have received an OWI ticket, it is, it is important to call an experienced OWI lawyer who can help you dismiss or reduce the charges.
