Implications with states that classify traffic infractions as misdemeanors
<p>It appears that some states, for example, Wyoming, classify most traffic infractions as <em>misdemeanors</em>.</p>

<p>Does it imply that someone who has committed a 5 mph speeding in such a state is technically a full fledged <em>criminal</em>, whereas another person doing the same in a state like California never is?</p>

<p>Your question assumes that there is a universal, legal definition of "criminal." Since there is not, it can't be answered.</p>

<p>Infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies are all criminal offenses defined by criminal law. There may be different implications involved in being found guilty of an infraction rather than a misdemeanor, but it's not the case that one of them makes you a "criminal" and the other does not.</p>

united-states traffic