You just got a letter that says a traffic charge is a criminal matter, not a payable ticket. That usually means the alleged driving conduct is treated as an offense that can be prosecuted in court, carry a criminal record, and lead to penalties beyond a civil fine. A criminal traffic offense is more serious than an ordinary moving violation or parking ticket. Depending on the state and the facts, it may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony and can expose a driver to arrest, arraignment, probation, license loss, and jail.

In New Hampshire, examples include DWI under RSA 265-A:2, reckless driving under RSA 265:79, leaving the scene in some cases under RSA 264:25, and driving after suspension or revocation under RSA 263:64. These are handled through the criminal process, not just the motor vehicle ticket system. Conviction can also trigger action by the Division of Motor Vehicles, including suspension or revocation.

For an injury claim, the label matters because a criminal traffic charge can help show dangerous conduct and strengthen proof of negligence or liability. If a crash on I-93 through Franconia Notch sends someone to Concord Hospital or Elliot Hospital, a related criminal charge may become key evidence. Even without a conviction, the underlying police report, witness statements, and chemical test results can affect settlement value and case strategy.