States like New Jersey utilize points systems that are used to penalize unsafe drivers who get pulled over and issued traffic tickets. Those numbers add up on the driver’s electronic record and can stay there for several years, depending on the nature of the driving violation. Points accumulate and can lead to higher insurance premiums, surcharges, and in the worst-case scenario, a loss of your driving privileges.
What is the Points Schedule for New Jersey?
In New Jersey, one driving violation can result in zero to five points. Although the entire list is too long to share here, some of the lower and highest ones are shown below:
Two Points
- Failure to keep right at an intersection.
- Failure to observe a traffic signal.
- Failure to stop your vehicle before a crossing sidewalk.
Three Points
- Improper left or right turn
- Improper U-turn
Four Points
- Improper passing in no-passing zone.
- Improper passing on the NJ Turnpike, Atlantic City Expressway, Garden State Parkway.
Five Points
- Failing to pass to the right of a vehicle that’s proceeding in the opposite direction.
- Improper passing of a school bus.
- Racing on a highway.
- Reckless driving.
- Speeding more than 30 mph over the limit.
- Tailgating
If your violation was committed out of state, expect an additional two points to be added on top of what you are assessed. The heavy fees and surcharges kick in once a driver has accumulated six points, as each point added after that incurs additional surcharges. If you have 12 points, your driving privileges will be suspended.
How Can I Get the Points Removed?
It may be possible to negotiate reduced or removed points in traffic court, in exchange for paying a higher fine. This could be worth it, especially if you know that your insurance premium and associated surcharges will be high. It is also possible to fight a traffic ticket, but you may need to appear in court or attend a hearing.
The points can also be removed at a later date if you do not commit another traffic violation or get a suspension for 12 consecutive months. Three points will be deducted from your license (driving record) after that time for your good behavior. The successful completion of one of the following can also remove points from your license. These programs are all voluntary and could be well worth your time:
- Defensive Driving Program
- Motor Vehicle Commission Driver Improvement Program
- Probationary Driver Program
If you have good reason to fight the ticket, you will need to plead not guilty in court. Common defenses include a missing speed limit sign, sloppy police paperwork, and malfunctioning radar and laser machines used by law enforcement officers.
The Freehold Traffic Ticket Lawyers at Ellis Law, P.C. Help Clients Fight Traffic Tickets
If you have accumulated points and do not know where to turn, contact our skilled Freehold traffic ticket lawyers at Ellis Law, P.C. We offer free consultations and are ready to help. Call us at 866-672-8816 or complete our online form today. We are based in Freehold, New Jersey, and serve clients in Freehold, Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
