New Jersey employs a point system to keep track of motorists’ traffic violations. The amount points you receive for a speeding ticket can vary. Generally, the more you exceed the speed limit, the more serious your penalties will be.
Your license can be suspended for a speeding ticket if the ticket causes you to accumulate enough points on your driving record. In general, a driver can have their licenses suspended if they accumulate 12 or more points.
If you were ticketed for speeding and need help avoiding a license suspension, get help from our experienced criminal defense lawyers by calling the Law Offices of John J. Zarych at (609) 616-4956.
Suspending Your License for Speeding in New Jersey
Yes, your license can be suspended for speeding in New Jersey. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) operates a point system to track driving violations, and speeding infractions result in the accumulation of points on your driving record.
The number of points assigned for speeding violations varies based on how much the driver exceeds the speed limit. For example, going 1 to 14 mph over the speed limit can result in 2 points, while exceeding the limit by 15 to 29 mph may lead to 4 points. If a driver accumulates a certain number of points within a specified period, their license can be suspended.
A license suspension can severely disrupt your daily routine and overall livelihood. If you are facing such a penalty, then it is crucial that you hire experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Our criminal defense attorneys can review your case to determine whether any charges levied against you may be eliminated or reduced. Further, we can fight to ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.
Explanation of the New Jersey Point System for Driving Violations
The New Jersey point system assigns points to drivers’ records based on the severity of their violations, which can ultimately lead to license suspensions and other consequences. The following is a summary of the key aspects of this system.
Assigning Points for Different Violations
The New Jersey Point System operates by assigning points to your driving record based on the severity of the violations you commit. It’s important to note that not all infractions carry the same point value. For instance, minor violations such as travelling 1 to 14 mph over the speed limit typically result in 2-point penalties. Meanwhile, more serious offenses like reckless driving can lead to 5 points being added to your record.
Accumulating Points and Consequences
Accumulating points on your driving record can have far-reaching consequences. Once you reach a certain threshold, you may face additional penalties. If you accumulate 6 or more points within a three-year period, you could be subject to a surcharge, which means an extra fee on top of any fines you’re already required to pay. Moreover, amassing 12 or more points could result in a mandatory license suspension. It’s essential to be aware of these potential outcomes and take proactive steps to address your situation.
Protecting Your Driving Privileges
When you find yourself facing points on your driving record, it’s crucial to take action to protect your driving privileges. The team at our firm can help you understand your options, develop a solid defense strategy, and guide you through the process of reducing points or even contesting a violation.
Potential Consequences of a Speeding Violation in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the consequences for speeding can be severe. For instance, speeding drivers may face any of the following consequences for their misconduct:
Fines and Court Costs
One of the most immediate consequences of a speeding violation is the imposition of fines and court costs. The amount of the fine can vary depending on factors such as how much the driver exceeded the speed limit. It’s crucial to be aware of the financial impact of a speeding ticket, as these fines can add up, potentially straining your budget.
Points on Your Driving Record
As previously discussed, speeding violations result in the accumulation of points on your driving record. These points serve as a measure of your driving behavior. Accumulating points can lead to surcharges and other penalties.
Impact on Insurance Rates
Another significant consequence of a speeding violation is the potential impact on your auto insurance rates. Insurance companies often consider your driving record when determining your premiums. If you have points on your record because of speeding or other violations, your insurance rates may increase. This can result in higher costs over the long term, making it essential to address speeding violations to minimize the financial impact.
Driver’s License Suspension
For drivers who accumulate too many points within a specific timeframe, license suspensions may be imposed. This outcome underscores the importance of staying informed about the point system and taking proactive steps to manage your driving record.
Implications for Employment
Beyond the legal and financial ramifications, a speeding violation can also have implications for your employment and lifestyle. Certain professions that involve driving may have strict requirements regarding driving records. A negative driving history could impact your job prospects or even your current employment.
Mandatory Driving Courses
Additionally, frequent speeding violations might lead to mandatory defensive driving courses or community service. The state’s Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) has the authority to mandate attendance at a driver improvement program or defensive driving course for certain traffic offenses, including speeding. The decision to assign mandatory courses is typically based on factors such as the severity of the violation, the driver’s record, and the number of accumulated points. These courses aim to educate drivers about safe driving practices, reduce the likelihood of future violations, and enhance overall road safety.
Can You Go to Jail for Speeding in New Jersey?
Speeding alone is unlikely to result in jail time in New Jersey unless it involves particularly egregious circumstances. However, excessive speeding or speeding in combination with other serious offenses, such as reckless driving or driving under the influence, could potentially result in criminal charges that carry the possibility of jail time.
Call Our Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help with Your Case in New Jersey
Get support from our experienced Atlantic City criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of John J. Zarych by dialing (609) 616-4956.
