For many people in New York, a driver’s license is a necessity. People often take for granted that they can maintain their driving privileges indefinitely. However, New York tracks significant moving violations.
Those who have too many infractions in a short amount of time could potentially be at risk of losing their driver’s licenses. Anytime a police officer issues a citation, they effectively accuse the driver of violating state law. The decision to pay the citation is the equivalent of pleading guilty to the traffic offense.
If the only cost of doing so was a fine, then a history of traffic violations might not be much reason for concern. However, New York tracks the number of tickets someone receives and can eventually take a driver’s license away over repeated violations or particularly severe ones. Fighting traffic tickets is, therefore, a smart choice for anyone who relies on their ability to drive to support themselves or care for family members.
How many tickets are necessary for license consequences?
It can take as little as a single ticket to put someone’s license at risk. If a driver accumulates 11 points or more within 18 months, the state can suspend their license. Traffic infractions can potentially cost someone their license after repeat offenses or a particularly serious violation. Even speeding tickets can lead to license suspension.
The points assessed for speeding tickets depend on how much someone exceeds the limit. A citation for between one and 10 miles per hour (mph) over the speed limit adds three points to a motorist’s record. Citations for between 11 and 20 mph over the limit can add four points.
Those accused of traveling 21 to 30 mph over the limit receive six points, while those cited for between 31 and 40 mph over the limit receive eight points at once. A citation for more than 40 mph over the posted limit leads to 11 points immediately.
In addition to the fine and the points assessed against a driver, there are other consequences as well. Traffic tickets can affect eligibility for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if someone drives for their career. Those with citations on their record typically pay far more than those without citations for liability insurance coverage.
Fighting a traffic ticket can help people avoid a fine and the points the state might assess against their licenses. Those who secure assistance when responding to traffic tickets may increase their chances of a positive outcome.
