All Other Traffic Violations

Legal Definition

This code encompasses traffic violations not otherwise specifically categorized under New Mexico's Motor Vehicle Code. It may include infractions such as improper lane usage, failure to obey traffic control devices, defective equipment, expired registration, or other regulatory violations that do not rise to the level of misdemeanor or felony offenses. The specific conduct and applicable statute vary depending on the nature of the violation.

Possible Punishment

Most traffic violations are civil infractions subject to a penalty assessment rather than criminal prosecution. Fines typically range from $25 to $300 depending on the specific violation. No jail time is imposed for civil traffic infractions. Certain violations may result in points assessed against the driver's license, and accumulation of points can lead to license suspension.

Criminal Traffic Cases in Doña Ana County

Not every traffic offense is a ticket. Driving on a suspended or revoked license, reckless driving, and fleeing an officer are criminal charges that end in booking rather than a citation, and they appear constantly in our feed. Suspended-license charges in particular tend to snowball: unpaid fines lead to suspension, driving anyway leads to arrest, and missing the court date adds a bench warrant.

Criminal traffic cases are heard in Las Cruces Municipal Court for city violations and Doña Ana Magistrate Court for state charges. If alcohol or drugs are involved, the case moves into DWI territory with its own mandatory penalties.

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