For most Oklahoma drivers, getting pulled over for a traffic violation includes just a ticket and a fine. However, not all traffic matters are purely civil infractions. When a momentary lapse in judgment or a recurring legal oversight crosses that line, the consequences become significantly more severe.
If you are facing a traffic violation that has escalated to a criminal offense, you need help from an experienced Oklahoma City traffic violations lawyer. At Josh Lee & Associates, we can help protect your rights and future after a routine traffic stop escalates into a criminal charge that threatens your future.
Civil vs. Criminal Traffic Violations
The traffic court system handles most civil moving violations, such as minor speeding, failing to signal, or rolling through a stop sign. These offenses typically result in fines, possible points on your driving record, and increases to insurance premiums, but they do not result in a criminal conviction.
However, certain behaviors and circumstances elevate an offense from a simple ticket to a criminal charge. Oklahoma law treats traffic violations that threaten public safety or involve egregious conduct more seriously.
Reckless Driving
One of the most common traffic-related crimes is reckless driving. Under §47-11-901 of the Oklahoma motor vehicle statutes, driving carelessly or wantonly without regard for the safety of persons or property can result in criminal charges. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor, and a conviction may result in jail time and fines.
DUI and Aggravated DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) is an example of a traffic offense that is inherently criminal. A DUI conviction in OKC is generally a misdemeanor, punishable by fines and possible jail time. However, recent changes to Oklahoma law have broadened the circumstances under which authorities can charge a DUI as a felony. Effective November 1, 2025, Senate Bill 54 expanded the definition of aggravated DUI, meaning that certain DUI cases may now carry felony charges. These include situations where a driver:
- Has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15% or higher
- Causes an accident while impaired
- Is driving with a minor in the vehicle
- Flees or eludes law enforcement
- Commits serious traffic violations like excessive speeding while under the influence
These new felony DUI provisions also impose mandatory minimum sentences, so what used to be a misdemeanor offense can now lead to substantial prison time.
Hit-and-Run and Fleeing Law Enforcement
Oklahoma law requires drivers to stop and exchange information after an accident. Leaving the scene can turn a traffic incident into a criminal case, especially if it involves injury or significant property damage. Oklahoma §21-540A also criminalizes fleeing or eluding a police officer because it endangers public safety.
Driving Without a Valid License
Operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license is another example where a simple traffic stop may lead to criminal charges. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a misdemeanor and can result in imprisonment, fines, and a longer suspension period.
A Criminal Traffic Charge Has a Lasting Impact
A civil infraction in Oklahoma can stay on your driving record for up to three years, but a criminal conviction can remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless expunged. A criminal record may result in jail or prison time and can affect housing, employment, and professional licensing.
Oklahoma drivers must recognize when a traffic violation crosses the line into criminal conduct. Knowing your rights and the potential legal ramifications under Oklahoma law can help you protect your rights and ensure that a mistake on the road does not affect your entire future.
