What is the consequence of driving while your license is suspended in Indiana?

When you drive while your license is suspended in Indiana, the situation can be classified as either an infraction or a misdemeanor, depending on the specifics of the offense and any prior violations. The law recognizes that driving on a suspended license poses serious risks; thus, it distinguishes between different levels of consequences.

If a driver has previously committed similar offenses or if there are aggravating circumstances, this behavior can escalate to a misdemeanor, which carries more severe penalties compared to an infraction, such as increased fines or potential jail time. An infraction typically results in less severe penalties, like a fine but no incarceration.

The classification helps law enforcement enforce traffic regulations and ensure that drivers are held accountable for violating suspension orders, enhancing road safety. Understanding this classification is crucial for drivers in Indiana to grasp the seriousness of driving with a suspended license and the potential legal ramifications they may face.