Civil Lawbreakers: Criminals Or Not?

Many people consider themselves law-abiding citizens, but it's not uncommon for people to unknowingly or unintentionally break civil laws. These infractions can range from minor offences like jaywalking or littering to more serious violations like copyright infringement or driving without a valid license. While some people may be unaware of the laws they are breaking, others may hold the belief that certain laws don't apply to them or that their actions are justifiable. This grey area between intention, awareness, and action raises an important question: Are people who break civil laws considered criminals?

Are people that break civil laws considered criminals?

Speeding and other traffic violations

However, certain traffic violations can escalate into misdemeanour or felony criminal offenses. For example, driving while intoxicated (DWI), reckless driving, hit and run, vehicular manslaughter, and driving with a suspended license are considered criminal traffic violations. These offenses carry more severe penalties, including potential jail time and substantial fines.

It's important to note that the classification of traffic violations as civil or criminal can vary by state or jurisdiction. For instance, in Arizona, speeding while in a school zone is considered a criminal traffic violation, while in Texas, speeding is generally treated as a civil offense.

To summarise, while speeding and some other traffic violations are typically classified as civil infractions, they can have serious consequences and, in certain cases, may escalate into criminal charges. The specific penalties and classifications will depend on the laws of the state or jurisdiction in which the violation occurs.

Texting/talking while driving

Breaking the law typically refers to criminal acts, and those who break the law are considered criminals. However, this is not always the case, as laws vary across different jurisdictions. For example, let's consider the case of texting or talking while driving.

Texting or talking on a cell phone while driving is illegal in many places, and those who engage in this behaviour are technically breaking the law. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) leads the fight against distracted driving, which includes texting and talking while driving. Distracted driving is defined as any activity that diverts attention from driving, and this behaviour has deadly consequences. In 2022, 3,308 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in the US.

In California, for instance, it is illegal to use a cell phone or similar electronic device while holding it in your hand while driving. Hands-free options, such as speakerphone or voice commands, are permitted. Additionally, any driver under the age of 18 is prohibited from using a cell phone for any reason while driving in California. These laws are in place due to the increased risk of crashing when engaging in distracting behaviours with a phone, such as dialling, talking, or texting.

The dangers of texting or talking while driving are significant. Sending or reading a text takes a driver's eyes off the road for about 5 seconds. At 55 mph (88.5 km/h), this is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. This greatly increases the risk of accidents and highlights why those who text or talk while driving are considered lawbreakers and can face legal consequences.

To summarise, people who break civil laws, such as texting or talking while driving, are generally considered lawbreakers and may be subject to penalties. However, the specific consequences and level of criminality may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the offence.

Littering

Breaking the law can happen accidentally or without full knowledge that an action is illegal. In the case of civil laws, people who break them are considered criminals and can be charged with a criminal offence.

Illegally downloading music/movies/books

Generally, people who break civil laws are considered criminals. Illegally downloading copyrighted material, such as music, movies, or books, is a form of copyright infringement and is illegal. This means that downloading and distributing copyrighted content without authorisation is a criminal act and those who engage in it are considered criminals.

Illegal downloading of copyrighted material is a serious offence that can result in both civil and criminal penalties. In civil suits, infringers may be liable for monetary damages and profits made from the infringement. Criminal copyright infringement carries the potential for imprisonment and substantial fines.

The unauthorised reproduction or distribution of copyrighted works exposes individuals to legal risks and penalties. It is important to respect the intellectual property rights of creators and distributors by obtaining content through legal means.

Online forums dedicated to digital piracy often discuss the ethical implications of their actions. Some argue that piracy is justifiable for various reasons, such as the high cost of purchasing content or the unavailability of certain titles. However, others recognise the potential harm caused to authors, publishers, and the entertainment industry as a whole.

It is important to note that the interpretation and enforcement of laws related to illegal downloading may vary across jurisdictions. While the discussion focuses on the legality and ethical implications of illegally downloading copyrighted material, it is essential to abide by the laws and respect the intellectual property rights of content creators.

Underage drinking

In all states, it is illegal to furnish alcohol to an underage minor in public, and this typically carries a misdemeanour penalty. If the minor is under 18, the supplier may also face criminal charges for contributing to the delinquency of a minor, which can be a misdemeanour or felony depending on the state.

In addition to state laws, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plays a role in addressing underage drinking. The NHTSA suggests that injury accidents will affect two out of every three motorists in their lifetime, and in 2017, more than 3,000 fatalities were attributed to distracted driving, which can include driving under the influence.

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