Violations of the state traffic code are referred to as “misdemeanors” or “petty misdemeanors” as required by state law, both in this code and in the state law. If reference is made in this code to “misdemeanor” when the clear intent is a reference to a violation of this code, “misdemeanor” shall be construed to mean “penal offense,” or “petty offense,” as the case may be.
('72 Code, § 1105:00(2))