Whether or not you currently have a traffic violation charge against you, it is important to understand how New Jersey regulates its roads and drivers. That way you understand the costs of letting those violations stick as well as what strategies you have to reduce any penalties.
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission breaks down how its points schedule determines whether you keep your license or not.
The basics of the points schedule
Each moving violation, on top of any fines, adds a certain number of points to your driver’s license. More points is worse. Each violation may add anywhere between two and eight points and the MVC suspends your license once you have 12 or more.
Example violations and point costs
Many traffic violations add between two and four points and include charges like these:
- Driving the wrong way on a one-way street
- Failing to observe traffic lanes
- Using a cellphone while driving
- Exceeding the maximum speed by up to 29mph over the limit
Other traffic violations may result in five or more points, such as racing on a highway or fleeing the scene of an accident that involved personal injury.
Points reduction after the fact
These points affect anything from your insurance rates to surcharges on future tickets. New Jersey offers a reduction in points for good behavior like going one year with no violations and attending programs that encourage defensive driving or driving improvement.
Another method is by defending yourself against these traffic violations. With the right preparation and resources, a traffic violation that does not stick to your record may not add points that risk a license suspension.