In New Jersey, the state’s driving point system can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a tool to encourage safe driving and hold drivers accountable for violations. On the other hand, the accumulation of points on your driving record can have serious consequences. When drivers accumulate too many points, they can face hefty fines, increased insurance premiums, and even the risk of having their driver’s license suspended. For drivers who are committed to maintaining a clean driving record, fighting the failure to keep the right NJ points is essential. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of New Jersey’s points system, explore how you can fight to reduce points on your record, and offer tips for preventing points from accumulating in the first place.
Understanding the NJ Points System
Before you can effectively fight to keep your points in check, it’s important to understand how New Jersey’s point system works. New Jersey assigns points to your driving record based on the severity of the traffic violation you commit. These points accumulate each time you receive a ticket, and the total number of points you accumulate determines the consequences. For example, speeding may result in 2-5 points depending on how far over the speed limit you are, while more severe violations like reckless driving can result in 5 points or more.
Points are not just a theoretical concept—they have real consequences. If you accumulate 12 or more points on your driving record, your driver’s license may be suspended. Additionally, each violation that adds points remains on your record for a certain period—usually up to three years—potentially affecting your driving privileges for a long time.
For some, keeping track of points may seem like a nuisance, but understanding the importance of these points is essential for maintaining both your driving privileges and your financial well-being.
What Happens If You Accumulate Too Many Points?
Accruing points isn’t just a matter of getting fined—it can lead to more severe consequences. If you accumulate too many points, you risk your license being suspended. This can be a huge inconvenience, making it difficult or impossible for you to get to work, run errands, or carry out daily responsibilities.
Additionally, accumulating points can result in higher insurance premiums. Insurance companies often view drivers with points on their record as high-risk individuals, and they raise their rates accordingly. This can lead to a significant financial burden, as car insurance is a necessity for every driver.
Beyond the immediate financial implications, too many points on your record can also tarnish your reputation as a responsible driver. For professional drivers or individuals whose job relies on maintaining a clean driving record, this can be devastating.
Fighting Failure to Keep Right NJ Points
While the consequences of accumulating too many points are severe, there are several ways to fight to keep your NJ points low. Fortunately, New Jersey offers multiple strategies for drivers who want to reduce the impact of points on their record.
1. Contesting Traffic Violations in Court
If you receive a traffic ticket and believe you were wrongfully issued the citation, contesting the ticket in court is your first line of defense. If you have evidence that supports your innocence, such as witness testimony or dashcam footage, you may be able to convince the judge to dismiss the ticket. In some cases, even if the officer shows up to court, you might be able to negotiate a reduction in the points associated with the violation.
However, contesting a ticket is not always a guaranteed win. The decision rests in the hands of the judge, and the burden of proof is on you to demonstrate that you were not in violation of the law. It’s important to weigh the potential costs of hiring a lawyer or taking time off work to attend the court hearing against the benefits of reducing or eliminating points.
2. Plea Bargains and Reductions
Another way to fight the accumulation of points is by negotiating a plea bargain. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser violation that carries fewer points or no points at all. For example, you might be able to have a speeding violation reduced to a non-moving violation, which would prevent points from being added to your record.
Plea bargains can be an effective way to avoid the negative consequences of having points added to your record, but they require a degree of legal expertise. It may be beneficial to consult with an attorney who specializes in traffic violations to increase your chances of securing a favorable plea deal.
3. Defensive Driving Courses for Point Reduction
One of the most effective ways to fight the failure to keep the right NJ points is by taking a defensive driving course. New Jersey offers drivers the option to reduce points on their record by completing a state-approved defensive driving course. Successfully completing this course can reduce up to 2 points from your driving record, which may prevent your license from being suspended or your insurance premiums from rising.
Even if you don’t have points on your record, attending a defensive driving course can be a good idea to stay on top of current traffic laws and refresh your driving skills. It’s an opportunity to learn new techniques for staying safe on the road and could prevent future violations.
4. Maintaining a Clean Driving Record
The best way to avoid accumulating points in the first place is by driving safely and obeying traffic laws. This may sound like common sense, but it’s easy to slip into bad habits while on the road. By making a conscious effort to follow the rules of the road—such as obeying speed limits, using turn signals, and avoiding distractions—you can reduce your risk of receiving a traffic ticket.
Also, be aware of common violations that lead to points. For example, improper lane changes, running red lights, or failure to yield the right of way are violations that drivers often overlook, but they all carry points. By being mindful of these risks and staying alert while driving, you can avoid the consequences of accumulating points.
5. Exploring the Option of Probationary Periods
In certain situations, New Jersey allows drivers to enter into probationary periods as an alternative to having their license suspended. This means that if you’ve accumulated too many points, you can be placed on probation and given the chance to reduce points through safe driving. While this isn’t available to all drivers, it can be an excellent option for those who have a clean driving record but are at risk of losing their license due to a temporary accumulation of points.
Preventing Point Accumulation: Tips for Safe Driving
While you can fight to remove points from your record, the best strategy is to avoid accumulating them in the first place. Here are a few tips for preventing points from adding up on your driving record:
- Stay within speed limits: Speeding is one of the most common causes of point accumulation. By adhering to posted speed limits, you reduce the risk of being ticketed and accumulating points.
- Use turn signals: A simple action like signaling before changing lanes or turning can help you avoid points for failure to signal.
- Don’t drive distracted: Texting while driving or using a phone without a hands-free setup is a dangerous behavior that can result in violations and points. Stay focused on the road to avoid costly mistakes.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs: Driving under the influence can result in severe penalties, including points, fines, and even license suspension.
Conclusion
Fighting failure to keep the right NJ points requires diligence, knowledge of the state’s point system, and a proactive approach to safe driving. While contesting tickets, negotiating plea deals, and attending defensive driving courses can help reduce points on your record, the most effective strategy is to avoid accumulating points in the first place. By adhering to traffic laws and adopting safe driving habits, you not only protect your driving privileges but also ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.
