When you fail to follow traffic laws there are consequences. In New York, this often means points on a system that carries their own consequences. Almost every traffic violation in New York carries points, which are assessed by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV). This enables the NY DMV to ascertain who is a high-risk driver and punish them accordingly.
When Are Points Added to Your Driving Record?
When someone is convicted of a traffic ticket violation, they will have points added to their driving record. It’s important to point out that these points are added as of the day that the traffic ticket was issued – not the date that the driver was convicted. Once these points are added to someone’s driving record they will always remain there.
The “Look-Back Period”
After a specified period of time, known as the look-back period, has gone by, these points will no longer count against the driver for purposes of punishment. The length of time after which this occurs is dependent upon who is looking at one’s driving record and what the record was for.
For instance, if a driver has had a suspended license, the DMV will have a look-back period of 18 months while the driver’s auto insurance company is three years. For some convictions, such as those related to alcohol, the look-back period may never end.
Violations Without Points
There are some traffic violations that do not carry points:
- Tinted window
- No seatbelt driver/passenger 16 years or older
- Unregistered
- Unlicensed
- Uninspected
- Faulty equipment
Consequences of Points
However, the majority do carry points. When someone receives points on their driving record, these points will be associated with different consequences. These penalties may include a license suspension, a license revocation, and a higher car insurance premium each month, which can add up to thousands of dollars over time.
If you receive six or more points on your driving record within a period of 18 months, you are required to pay a Driver Responsibility Assessment fee. The number of points you receive are based on the offense committed. For example, speeding may yield 3-11 points (depending on the speed over the limit), while most moving violations will carry 2-3 points. If you receive points in another state, they will not be added to your New York driving record unless they occur in either Quebec or Ontario, for which New York has a reciprocal agreement.
Fighting Your Points
The good news is that you have the opportunity to fight points assigned to you. You can do this by attending a DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP), or safe driving course, which will credit points back to you. By crediting points back to you and your driving record, you will be able to save money on your premium.
AutoTrafficTickets.com Helps Those in New York Who Have Been Issued a Traffic Ticket
If you have received a traffic ticket in New York, it can have very serious consequences on your life and your livelihood. That’s why it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced New York traffic ticket attorney. A knowledgeable and experienced traffic ticket attorney understands the pertinent laws and can help you establish the best argument. AutoTrafficTickets.com can help. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Traffic Tickets