What type of offenses are traffic cases categorized as in Texas?

Traffic cases in Texas are categorized as criminal offenses because they can involve violations of state laws that may carry penalties such as fines, points on a driver's license, or even jail time for more serious infractions. Criminal traffic offenses include serious violations like driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license. These cases are typically prosecuted in criminal court, emphasizing the legal seriousness of these violations, as they can affect an individual’s criminal record and driving privileges.

In contrast, civil offenses are typically resolved through civil litigation and do not result in criminal penalties. Administrative offenses usually pertain to regulatory violations rather than criminal law. While petty offenses refer to less severe crimes that typically result in minimal penalties, traffic offenses can often have serious implications, particularly if they lead to injury or fatality, reinforcing their classification as criminal offenses in Texas law.