Traffic Citations in Wisconsin: What You Need to Know

Most drivers will receive a traffic ticket at some point — whether it’s for speeding, running a red light, or another moving violation. While it might seem easier to just pay the fine and move on, doing so can have lasting consequences for your driver’s license, insurance rates, and even your employment.

At Johansen Law Office, S.C., we help Wisconsin drivers understand their rights, the penalties they face, and how to fight back when a citation could cause serious damage to their record or livelihood.

Here’s what you should know about traffic citations in Wisconsin and what your options are after getting one.

1. Types of Traffic Violations in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, traffic violations fall into two main categories: non-moving and moving violations.

• Non-Moving Violations include parking tickets, expired registration, or mechanical issues like broken taillights. These usually carry fines but don’t add points to your driving record.

• Moving Violations include speeding, reckless driving, running a stop sign, or improper lane changes. These offenses are more serious — they can add points to your license, raise your insurance premiums, and in some cases, lead to license suspension.

If your job depends on driving (for example, if you hold a commercial driver’s license or CDL), even minor moving violations can put your career at risk.

2. Wisconsin’s Point System

Wisconsin uses a demerit point system to track driver behavior. Each moving violation adds points to your record, and too many points can result in suspension.

Examples of Common Violations and Point Values:

• Speeding 1–10 mph over the limit: 3 points

• Speeding 11–19 mph over the limit: 4 points

• Speeding 20 mph or more over: 6 points

• Failure to stop for a stop sign: 4 points

• Reckless driving: 6 points

• Operating without insurance: 3 points

If you accumulate 12 or more points within 12 months, your driver’s license can be suspended for up to one year. That’s why it’s often worth contesting a ticket — especially if you already have points on your record.

3. What Happens When You Get a Citation

When you receive a citation, you have three options:

1. Pay the fine (which is the same as pleading guilty).

2. Request a court appearance and contest the citation.

3. Hire an attorney to represent you and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal.

Paying the fine might seem easier, but it’s essentially admitting guilt. The violation will go on your record, and the points and penalties will follow. In many cases, an attorney can negotiate to have the citation reduced to a lesser offense with fewer or no points.

4. The Hidden Costs of Traffic Tickets

A traffic ticket is more than just the fine printed on the citation. It can lead to:

• Higher insurance rates for several years.

• License suspension or revocation if you accumulate too many points.

• Job consequences, especially for CDL or company vehicle drivers.

• Court costs and reinstatement fees if your license is suspended.

Even one or two tickets can quickly snowball into a major problem if left unaddressed.

5. How an Attorney Can Help

Working with a traffic defense attorney can make a big difference — especially if you already have prior violations or a commercial license.

At Johansen Law Office, S.C., we can:

• Review the citation for errors or procedural issues.

• Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge.

• Represent you in court so you don’t have to appear.

• Help protect your driving record and prevent suspension.

Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life — and keep you legally and safely on the road.

6. Take Action Before It’s Too Late

You usually have a limited time (listed on the citation) to respond before your license or driving privileges are affected. Don’t ignore it — and don’t assume paying the fine is your only option.

If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Superior or anywhere in Wisconsin, contact Johansen Law Office, S.C. for a consultation. We will review your situation, explain your options, and fight to protect your record and your rights.

Disclaimer

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific case, please contact a licensed attorney.