What is the difference between a citation and a ticket?

In South Dakota, a citation and a ticket can both be used to refer to a violation of traffic law. However, there are a few key differences between the two. A citation is an official notice that a person has violated the law. It also requires the person to appear in court and can result in a variety of punishments depending on the severity of the violation. Citations can also include fines, community service, and the suspension of a driver’s license. A ticket, on the other hand, is usually issued directly by the police officer who stops the driver. Tickets are issued on the spot and do not require the driver to appear in court. They are often less severe than citations. Fines are typically the punishment for a ticket. Additionally, tickets may involve an educational course in lieu of a fine. When a driver is charged with a violation in South Dakota, the officer usually decides whether to issue a citation or a ticket. Typically, minor offenses are punished with tickets and more severe offenses such as reckless driving or speeding over 25 mph will result in a citation. In summary, the main difference between a citation and a ticket in South Dakota is the severity of the violation and the type of punishment involved. Tickets are usually issued by the police officer who stops the driver and involve fines, while citations require the driver to appear in court and typically involve more severe punishments like community service or license suspension.

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