What is the primary purpose of traffic citations?

The primary purpose of traffic citations is to enforce traffic laws and promote road safety. Traffic citations serve as a legal tool that helps law enforcement maintain order on the roads by addressing violations of traffic regulations. When a driver receives a citation, it typically signals that they have committed an infraction that could endanger themselves or others, such as speeding, running a red light, or not wearing a seatbelt.

By issuing citations, authorities aim not only to penalize irresponsible driving behavior but also to deter future violations. This contributes to overall road safety, as drivers are encouraged to adhere to traffic laws to avoid citations and, potentially, more severe penalties such as fines or license suspension. The enforcement of these laws through citations is designed to create a safer driving environment for everyone.

While traffic citations may incidentally lead to government revenue through the collection of fines, this is not their primary function. Similarly, documenting vehicle ownership is a separate process primarily handled through vehicle registration rather than through the issuance of traffic citations.