What is defined as a petty offense in Illinois?

In Illinois, a petty offense is specifically characterized as an offense that is punishable solely by a fine. This definition helps to categorize the severity of different types of offenses, distinguishing petty offenses from more serious charges that may involve jail time, as in the case of misdemeanors or felonies. The focus on being punishable by a fine only emphasizes that petty offenses are generally minor infractions that do not carry the risk of incarceration, making them less severe in the context of the criminal justice system.

The other options reflect situations that either involve more serious offenses or consequences. An offense involving a vehicle accident can range in severity and may not necessarily be classified as petty; it could potentially lead to more serious charges depending on the circumstances. Offenses that lead to jail time exceeding a year categorize as felonies, which are clearly above the level of petty offenses. Lastly, offenses that may result in the revocation of a driver's license often indicate violations of traffic laws that can carry greater penalties and are typically not defined as petty offenses if they include other forms of punishment. Thus, understanding that a petty offense is limited to punishments that involve fines only helps clarify why the correct answer focuses specifically on this aspect.