Understanding the New York point system
The DMV in New York assigns points to your driving record based on the severity of the traffic violation. These points accumulate over time and are assessed over 18 months, starting from the date of the offense, not the conviction.
1. How many points lead to suspension?
If you accumulate 11 points within 18 months, your driver’s license is at risk of being suspended. However, certain violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving can lead to immediate suspension or revocation regardless of the number of points.
2. Common violations and their point values
- Speeding (1-10 mph over the limit): 3 points
- Speeding (11-20 mph): 4 points
- Speeding (21-30 mph): 6 points
- Reckless driving: 5 points
- Running a red light: 3 points
- Improper cell phone use: 5 points
Receiving multiple violations in a short time can lead to rapid point accumulation. A lawyer for speeding ticket can help challenge these violations in court to reduce or eliminate points.
What triggers a point suspension?
There are specific triggers that can lead to a suspension or a license revocation:
1. Repeated speeding violations
Speeding tickets are one of the most common causes of point suspensions. Drivers who consistently exceed speed limits are seen as high-risk and may face suspensions sooner. Consulting a lawyer for speeding ticket is a proactive step to fight these charges.
2. Multiple minor violations
Even minor infractions can add up. For example, several red-light or cell phone violations may cumulatively result in a suspension. Seeking guidance from a lawyer for traffic tickets near you helps you understand your legal options for contesting these tickets.
3. Failure to respond to tickets
Ignoring traffic tickets or failing to pay fines can trigger an automatic suspension, even if the point total is not high. In such cases, a lawyer for traffic tickets near me can help resolve the matter and reinstate your license.
How to reduce or prevent a suspension
1. Take a defensive driving course
Completing a DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) can subtract up to four points from your record, although it does not erase the actual violations.
2. Contest the ticket in court
Hiring a lawyer for traffic tickets near me allows you to fight the violation and potentially avoid adding points to your license altogether. A skilled lawyer for speeding ticket may be able to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation.
Point suspensions in New York are not just a minor inconvenience—they can impact your insurance premiums, job prospects, and even your ability to drive legally. Staying informed about the point system and addressing violations promptly can protect your driving privileges. Suppose you find yourself accumulating points or facing a traffic court appearance. In that case, it is highly advisable to consult a lawyer for traffic tickets near me or a lawyer for speeding ticket to help minimize the damage and secure your legal rights.
