Traffic Tickets, Points and Your Drivers License

Many people would like to believe that each traffic ticket stands alone and they do not add up to additional penalties over time. That, however, is not the case. Most states have point systems, sometimes called demerit systems, by which driving infractions add up if they take place within a certain period of time. Eventually, when enough points or demerits are accrued, the driver’s license may be suspended for a specified length of time, depending on the number of points. Those who already have traffic ticket points on their record and receive another ticket should consider contacting an attorney to fight that ticket to avoid additional penalties.

State Point Systems

The United States generally makes use of a point system in tracking the driving record of most drivers. Some states have other methods of measurement, but the point system helps determine when drivers have consistently broken traffic laws and been convicted of those crimes. Most states utilize these systems, however, each state has its own specifications for points and suspensions. Many states have point systems similar to this:

Two-Point Violations

Driving 1-10 mph over speed limit

Minor moving violations

Refusal of breath test for DUI (drivers under 21 years of age)

Three-Point Violations

Careless driving

Running traffic signals or signs/ Improper passing

11-15 mph over speed limit

Four-Point Violations

Drag racing

Any blood alcohol level (BAC) for a driver under 21

16 or more mph over speed limit

Six-Point Violations

Manslaughter, negligent homicide, or any felony involving a motor vehicle

Leaving the scene of an accident

Reckless driving

When a driver accrues too many points within a specified period of time, they may have their driver’s license suspended for a period of time. In many cases, those parameters may include:

A 2-month suspension for 12 points in 1 year

A 3-month suspension for up to 17 points in 2 years

A 4-month suspension for up to 20 points in 2 years

A 6-month suspension for up to 23 points in 2 years

A 1-year suspension for 24 or more points in 2 years

Not only are legal penalties tied to these points, but insurance rates are often raised when companies are supplied with information about additional points on someone’s record. Such information may cause an insurer to raise rates for three years or more, by as much as $900 per year.

Getting Legal Help for Limiting the Number of Points on a Driver’s License

Most drivers keep track of the points on their driving record. Even a second offense can bring serious consequences. That is why it is important to determine if a driver can fight even a second infraction and avoid it adding points to their record. The best chance of determining whether that is possible, and helping a driver win such a battle, is to contact a traffic attorney with the expertise to do so successfully.

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