For many Philadelphia drivers, receiving a traffic ticket seems like a minor inconvenience. Paying the fine online or through the mail may appear easier than challenging the citation. However, paying a Pennsylvania traffic ticket constitutes an automatic guilty plea and conviction on your PennDOT driving record.
Certain moving violations carry points that accumulate toward mandatory examinations and license suspensions, while others increase automobile insurance premiums for years. Before simply paying a ticket, understand the legal consequences. Philadelphia traffic ticket lawyer Mark D. Hauser, Esquire, has over 30 years of legal experience representing drivers in Pennsylvania courts.
How Pennsylvania’s Point System Works (75 Pa.C.S. § 1535)
PennDOT maintains a permanent driving record for every licensed Pennsylvania motorist. When you are convicted of a point-bearing violation, points are assessed automatically. Reaching six points for the first time requires passing a written Special Point Examination within 30 days. Subsequent accumulations trigger mandatory departmental hearings and license suspensions.
Common Violations and Points Assessed
| Traffic Violation | Points Assessed |
|---|---|
| Speeding 6–10 mph over limit | 2 Points |
| Speeding 11–15 mph over limit | 3 Points |
| Speeding 16–25 mph over limit | 4 Points |
| Speeding 26+ mph over limit | 5 Points |
| Running red light (Officer-issued) | 3 Points |
| Running a stop sign | 3 Points |
| Careless driving (§ 3714) | 3 Points |
| Following too closely (tailgating) | 3 Points |
| Improper passing (§ 3306) | 3–4 Points |
For a complete, statutory table of all violations, review our comprehensive Pennsylvania Traffic Points and Penalties Guide.
Are Camera Tickets Different From Officer-Issued Tickets?
Yes. Philadelphia automated red-light cameras and Roosevelt Boulevard speed cameras are civil infractions. They do NOT add points to your driver’s license or trigger PennDOT suspensions. Officer-issued tickets, on the other hand, carry full statutory points and criminal summary convictions.
How a Traffic Ticket Attorney Can Help
Attorney Hauser evaluates the officer’s radar calibration records, traffic-control visibility, and evidentiary weaknesses. In many cases, citations can be negotiated down to non-point violations or dismissed entirely at Philadelphia Municipal Court’s Traffic Division (800 Spring Garden Street).
Received a Traffic Ticket in Philadelphia?
Do not plead guilty before consulting an attorney. Call Mark D. Hauser at 267-584-4093 for a free consultation.
Have Questions About Your Case in Philadelphia?
Attorney Mark D. Hauser has over 30 years of experience in Pennsylvania criminal defense, PFA proceedings, DUI cases, and traffic court representation. Call 267-584-4093 for a free, confidential consultation.