Understanding and adhering to Wyoming's traffic laws is critical for safe driving practices. It involves knowing speed limits, signaling turns, and understanding road regulations like yielding to emergency vehicles and navigating intersections safely.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) oversees crucial aspects of driver compliance. They guarantee drivers possess valid registrations, licenses, and adequate insurance coverage statewide, in addition to maintaining road infrastructure and safety standards.
Working alongside WYDOT, the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) plays a crucial role in enforcing traffic laws. This includes apprehending traffic offenders and issuing tickets to ensure compliance with regulations.
Traffic violations can have significant consequences for drivers, including costly fines, potential license suspensions, increased insurance premiums, and even incarceration. These penalties affect one's ability to drive legally and affordably and result in blemishes on their driving history.
By embracing responsible driving habits and respecting traffic regulations, motorists contribute to their own well-being and minimize accidents, creating a safer driving environment statewide.
What Are the Major Traffic Violations in Wyoming?
In Wyoming, breaches of traffic and road regulations are generally categorized as traffic violations or infractions.
Motorists can receive citations from state or local law enforcement for these infractions, with penalties dictated by state laws. These penalties typically include fines, jail time, and various legal fees. For more severe traffic violations, such as felonies, penalties are significantly harsher, with extended jail sentences and substantial fines.
The state's judicial system, including Municipal, Circuit, and District Courts, adjudicates traffic ticket cases and imposes penalties. While Circuit Courts have authority over both criminal and civil traffic matters, Municipal Courts handle only criminal traffic cases.
In Wyoming, traffic violations fall into two categories: moving and non-moving infractions. Moving violations occur when a vehicle is in motion and violates traffic laws, such as speeding, disregarding traffic signals, reckless driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Non-moving violations, however, occur whether the vehicle is stationary or in motion without violating traffic laws related to the vehicle's movement or operation on the road. Examples of non-moving violations include texting or using a handheld device while driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, improper parking, and driving with expired registration or inadequate vehicle insurance.
Driving Without a License or With a Suspended License
To legally drive on Wyoming highways, individuals must possess a valid driver's license. Under Wyoming Statute Section 31-7-106, operating a motor vehicle in Wyoming without a valid license or with a suspended or revoked license constitutes a serious violation of traffic laws.
The licensing requirements apply even when a driver is in "physical control" of a vehicle, regardless of whether the car is in motion or the engine is running.
Exceptions to these requirements include government employees operating official vehicles and non-residents with valid out-of-state or international licenses. Military personnel and students also have specific regulations governing their driving privileges in Wyoming.
Violations of these regulations are classified as misdemeanors. They typically result in fines of approximately $150, and repeated offenses can lead to license suspension. If a driver fails to carry a valid license while driving, they can also face misdemeanor charges. However, presenting a valid license to law enforcement or in court can dismiss this charge.
Driving with a suspended or revoked license incurs more severe penalties. These are typically categorized as misdemeanors, with fines of up to $750 and a maximum of six months in jail. Subsequent offenses during the same suspension period escalate to a minimum of seven days in jail and at least a $200 fine.
Drivers suspended for driving under the Influence (DUI) convictions face additional penalties, including fines up to $750, mandatory seven-day jail time, and a $200 fine upon release. Underage drivers facing alcohol-related suspensions encounter an additional 30-day suspension for subsequent violations.
Speeding
In Wyoming, speeding is a traffic violation governed by both the "basic speeding law" and "absolute limits" as per Wyoming Statute Section 31-5-301.
Under the basic speeding law, drivers must adjust their speed to ensure safety given current road, weather, and traffic conditions. This includes reducing speed near crossings, curves, or in adverse weather.
Absolute speed limits define the maximum allowable speeds on different types of roads:
- Near school buildings with reduced speed zone signs, the limit is 20 miles per hour (mph).
- In residential and business districts, the speed limit is set at 30 mph.
- On interstate highways, drivers can travel up to 75 mph.
- On paved roads, the speed limit is 65 mph(reduced to 55 mph on unpaved roads).
Wyoming fines for speeding vary depending on the severity of the offense. Minor violations start with a base fine of $65, with an additional $2 per mile over the speed limit. For more serious infractions, fines begin at $270, with an additional $7 per mile over the specific speed limits.
Speeding can also result in charges of reckless or careless driving, particularly if it poses a danger to others or causes accidents. In the most extreme cases, such as when speeding leads to a fatality, it can result in charges of "homicide by vehicle," as defined under Wyoming Statute Section 6-2-106.
Reckless and Careless Driving
Reckless and careless driving are significant offenses in Wyoming. Reckless driving involves "willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property." "Willful" means intentional conduct, while "wanton" implies a disregard for known risks.
This misdemeanor can result in up to six months in jail and/or fines up to $750, along with a surcharge ranging from $150 to $350 for a first offense and $200 to $400 for subsequent offenses. A third conviction within five years leads to license revocation.
Careless driving, although less severe, involves driving without the "due and diligent care normally exercised by a reasonably prudent person," creating an unreasonable risk. Unlike reckless driving, it doesn't necessarily involve overt danger.
Penalties include fines up to $200 for a first offense, increasing to $300 for a second offense within a year. A third or subsequent offense within a year can result in six months in jail and/or fines up to $500. This distinction highlights the varying levels of severity between reckless and careless driving in Wyoming.
Driving Under the Influence
DUI is also a grave offense in Wyoming. Under the state's zero-tolerance laws, motorists are prohibited from operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher, or .04% for commercial drivers. Additionally, driving while impaired by any controlled substance or alcohol is illegal.
A first DUI offense within ten years is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail, fines up to $750, and a 90-day license suspension. If the BAC is .15% or higher, a six-month ignition interlock device (IID) is required.
A second DUI within ten years results in seven days to six months in jail, fines between $200 and $750, a one-year license suspension, and a one-year IID requirement.
A third DUI offense within ten years carries penalties of 30 days to six months in jail, fines from $750 to $3,000, a three-year license suspension, and a two-year IID requirement. A fourth or subsequent DUI within ten years is a felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
DUIs causing serious injury are felonies, punishable by up to ten years in prison and fines from $2,000 to $5,000. DUI-related fatalities result in "aggravated homicide-by-vehicle," carrying up to 20 years in prison.
DUI offenders must complete a substance abuse assessment and may join treatment or the 24/7 sobriety program. Additionally, the WYDOT enforces license suspensions, with extra penalties for underage drivers and test refusals.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Wyoming law requires drivers involved in accidents to immediately stop and provide their name, address, and vehicle registration to those affected. They must also present their driver's license upon request and offer reasonable aid to any injured parties, including arranging for medical assistance.
If the accident involves unattended property or an empty vehicle, efforts must be made to locate the owner or leave contact information with a brief explanation of the incident.
Accidents resulting in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported to law enforcement. Failing to stop and exchange information or assist the injured is a serious offense. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and fines ranging from $300 to $1,000.
Leaving the scene of an accident where minor injuries occur is considered a class A misdemeanor, with penalties of up to nine months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Accidents resulting in severe injuries are classified as Class E felonies in Wyoming. Potential penalties include a maximum of 15 years in prison and fines reaching $50,000. Fatal accidents are considered Class D felonies, carrying penalties that may include up to 25 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.
How Does Wyoming's DMV Point System Work?
Unlike many other states, Wyoming does not employ a points-based system for driver records. Instead, convictions for moving violations are reported to the WYDOT and recorded against a driver.
If a driver accumulates four moving violations within 12 months, their license may be suspended for 90 days. Subsequent violations carry an additional 90-day suspension. Traffic infractions such as speeding can remain on a driving record for up to 12 years.
DUI charges result in criminal and administrative penalties, which can stay on a driving record for up to five years. Other serious violations like vehicular homicide, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an injury accident, and felony convictions also stay on record for five years.
Less severe offenses such as moving violations, compulsory insurance violations, uninsured accidents, and violations under the non-resident violator compact remain on record for three years.
What Is the Process for Handling Traffic Tickets in Wyoming?
A traffic ticket or citation in Wyoming serves as a formal notice issued by law enforcement to a driver for breaking traffic laws, such as illegal parking, speeding, and other traffic violations.
Depending on the severity of the violation and specific court requirements, offenders facing these citations can choose between paying fines directly or contesting the violation through a "not guilty" plea.
Additionally, eligible offenders may opt to take a defensive driving course, which can result in ticket dismissal. However, Wyoming courts may not endorse this option as a mitigation measure to offset, reduce, or dismiss penalties for certain traffic violations.
Paying the Ticket
Vehicle owners in Wyoming facing a traffic ticket can opt to pay the fine if they expect not to win in court or prefer not to contest it. Payment can be made by mail, in person, or online, depending on the district court.
The citation provides detailed payment instructions, including options tailored to each violation. When paying by mail, vehicle owners should include a pink copy of the citation. For online payments, they can utilize the Wisconsin Court System's circuit court payment system, which is designed primarily for Circuit Court use.
However, online payment isn't possible if a court appearance is required. Paying online after receiving a license suspension notice may not prevent suspension, and warrants may remain active until processed by the court.
If opting to pay the ticket, they must ensure payment is made by the specified hearing date. Wyoming courts typically allow a ten-day grace period afterward, but its length may vary. Failing to comply may lead to license suspension and a court-issued arrest warrant.
Pleading Not Guilty and Requesting Trial
To contest a traffic violation in Wyoming and potentially avoid fines and a blemished record, vehicle owners can plead "not guilty."
The method for entering this plea varies depending on whether the violation was issued by a municipal or circuit court, as indicated on the ticket. Some courts allow a "not guilty" plea by attending the hearing date, while others require a form submission beforehand.
After entering a "not guilty" plea, the court schedules a hearing where vehicle owners may choose to seek legal representation. During this hearing, a judge reviews the case and renders a verdict.
A "not guilty" verdict means no fines or record entries, while a "guilty" verdict requires payment of fines and court fees and results in a record. Serious violations could lead to driver's license suspension. If dissatisfied with the verdict, vehicle owners can request another hearing or consider hiring a qualified attorney for an appeal.
Completing a Defensive Driving Program
In Wyoming, eligible motorists can dismiss speeding tickets by completing a state-approved defensive driving course and paying the required fees. Each municipal court sets its own eligibility criteria.
In Laramie, drivers are ineligible for the program if charged with overtaking a school bus, speeding 25 mph over the limit, speeding in a school zone, speeding that led to an accident, reckless driving, or DUI. Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders are also excluded.
Aside from having their tickets dismissed, this option helps traffic violators maintain a clean driving history and lower insurance rates. The defensive driving program enhances driving skills and promotes safer road practices, providing a valuable alternative to traditional penalties and encouraging responsible driving behavior.
How Are Accident Reports Handled in Wyoming?
Pursuant to Wyoming Statute Sections 31-5-1105 to 31-5-1112, drivers must immediately notify law enforcement following a crash involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
If the driver is unable to contact the police, another occupant of the vehicle should do so. If the accident happens within city limits, drivers should promptly notify the local police department. When outside city limits, they should contact the nearest highway patrol troop or county sheriff's office.
At the crash site, a police officer engages with all parties involved to assess injuries and determine if charges such as reckless driving or DUI are warranted. Essential details, including insurance and contact information, are documented in the report for future reference.
The officer may also provide an impartial assessment of the accident's cause or fault. These reports are typically completed promptly after the incident and can aid in legal proceedings with insurance companies. Within ten days, reports are forwarded to the highway department to verify insurance compliance for all drivers involved.
While accident reports from police aren't admissible as evidence in court, they provide crucial factual information about accidents. Without them, insurers may dispute a claim or deny the accident happened. With an official report, motorists can better defend against such challenges.
Additional evidence, such as eyewitness accounts, videos, and photos, is often necessary to
support compensation claims, especially for injuries.
Acquiring an Accident Report
To obtain an accident report in Wyoming, vehicle owners can contact the WYDOT Highway Safety by phone at (307) 777-4450, visit a Wyoming Highway Patrol office in person, or mail a request to:
Wyoming Department of Transportation
Attention: Accident Records
5300 Bishop Blvd.
Cheyenne, WY 82009
When requesting the report, they must provide details such as their contact information, the date of the accident, the name of the person involved, and the case number, if available.
There is a $3 fee for the accident report and a $2.50 service fee for credit card payments. Payments by check or money order (payable to WYDOT) are accepted in person and by mail.
What Should Drivers Know about Traffic-Related Arrests in Wyoming?
In Wyoming, the most common reasons for traffic violation arrests include excessive speeding, DUI or drunk driving, and reckless and careless driving.
The arrest procedure for traffic violations varies by severity. For minor infractions, officers typically issue a citation detailing options to pay fines or contest in court.
However, for serious offenses like DUI or reckless driving, officers have the authority to make immediate arrests and place individuals in custody. Bail eligibility depends on the offense and criminal history. Court appearance is mandatory, and failure to appear can lead to further charges and a warrant.
Arrested individuals have the right to remain silent and have legal counsel (Miranda rights), which the arresting officer must communicate. They also have the right to be detained only for a reasonable time, even if officers are waiting for additional resources such as a K-9 unit.
After arrest, individuals can make a phone call. Calls to legal counsel are private, while calls to others may be recorded for legal use. They must be brought before a judge immediately, usually within 48 hours.
Individuals must be aware of the ramifications of being arrested for traffic violations in Wyoming. These include hefty legal fees, potential imprisonment for serious offenses like DUI, and financial strain from fines and possible license suspension.
A resulting criminal record severely limits job prospects in fields requiring a clean driving history. They may also encounter discrimination, stigma, and social isolation, which profoundly affect their personal and professional lives.