In Florida, Accumulating Points On Your Driver’s License Is Not A Good Thing
In most circumstances in life, getting points is a good thing. But, as you will get to learn in this article, accumulating points on your driver’s license is not a good thing. In fact, you should avoid getting points added to your driver’s license at all costs.
For many motorists, a driver’s license symbolizes freedom and autonomy. But, if, as a driver, you find yourself with a speeding ticket on your hands or in a fender bender, your mistakes might end up costing you. For example, excessive points on your license can make you a high-risk driver in your insurance company’s eyes. If your insurance company considers you a high-risk driver, you might end up paying higher insurance premiums. Unfortunately, in Florida, having points on your driver’s license can result in an increase of up to 50% over your current premiums. However, it is essential for us to mention that most insurance companies do not increase rates by 50% for your first violation with points.
Accumulating points on your license can also lead to your license being suspended or even revoked. The number of points it takes to have your license either suspended or revoked varies from state to state. In the Sunshine State, the number of points and the length of license suspension are as follows:
- Accumulating 12 points in 12 months – 30-days suspension
- Getting 18 points in 18 months – 3-months suspension
- Getting 24 points in 36 months – 1-year suspension
It is important to note that in Florida, apart from license points, failing to follow certain rules can lead to the automatic suspension of your license. Some of the acts that can lead to an automatic suspension of your Florida license include;
- Committing drug or alcohol-related offenses
- Street racing
- Failure to pay child support
Common Traffic Violations That Result in Points
Accumulating twelve points in twelve months seems impossible, right? Well, you might be shocked at how fast points can add up. Below are some common traffic violations that accumulate points and the points associated with each violation.
- Careless driving – 3 points
- Moving violation – 3 points
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving more than $50 property damage – 6 points
- Reckless driving – 4 points
- Failing to yield the right of way to a pedestrian – 3 points
- Violating child restraint laws – 3 points
- Failing to stop at a red light/traffic signal – 4 points
How Long Do Points Remain on Your License?
In the state of Florida, any points you receive on your driver’s license can remain on your record for three years. However, just because you racked up points on your license doesn’t mean they have to stay there. There are certain ways of removing points from a license. A professional can help you assess your options.
Contact Our Experienced Orlando Personal Injury Attorneys
Our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm specialize in helping personal injury victims receive compensation for injuries and damages. If you, a loved one, a friend, or someone you just know, has been severely injured in an auto accident because of another party’s negligence, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Myers areas.
