When most people receive a summary traffic citation in Pennsylvania, their first reaction is usually the same: “It’s just a ticket.”
And sometimes, that may be true.
But not always.
A summary offense is the lowest level of criminal charge under Pennsylvania law. It may not sound serious, but pleading guilty is still a conviction. That conviction becomes part of your driving record, and depending on the violation, points may be added to your license.
That is where the situation can become more significant than it first appears.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) assigns points for many moving violations. Two or three points may not sound like much. However, if you already have points or are approaching a suspension threshold, even a relatively minor citation can trigger driver improvement requirements or potentially a license suspension.
For individuals who rely on their vehicle to commute to work, transport family members, or earn a living, that risk carries real weight.
Insurance is another factor that is often overlooked. When you plead guilty to a moving violation, the conviction becomes part of your driving history. Insurance companies regularly review driving records when calculating premiums. Even a single violation can result in higher monthly payments or the loss of safe driver discounts. Those increases frequently remain in place for several years. Over time, the added cost can easily exceed the amount of the original fine.
In other words, the true cost of a summary traffic offense is not always reflected in the amount printed on the citation.
In many cases, there may be options available. Depending on the circumstances, it is sometimes possible to seek a reduction to a non-moving violation. That can mean no points assessed to your license and less impact on insurance premiums. Every case is different, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, your prior driving history, and the court involved. However, once a ticket is paid and a guilty plea is entered, those options are no longer available.
Not every summary offense requires hiring an attorney. If you have a clean record and no concerns about points or insurance consequences, you may decide to resolve the matter on your own. However, if you already have points, face a potential suspension, hold a commercial driver’s license, or simply want to understand your options before pleading guilty, consulting with counsel can provide important clarity.
Before paying a traffic ticket in Pennsylvania, it is worth asking one question: What am I actually risking?
Sometimes it is not about the fine. It is about protecting your license, your record, and your ability to move forward without long-term consequences.
If you have received a summary traffic citation and would like to discuss your options, schedule a consultation with Attorney Kristin Messner-Baker by contacting Scaringi Law at 717-657-7770.