What Happens If You Accumulate Too Many Points On Your License in Georgia?
In Georgia, the state uses a point system to monitor and penalize drivers for traffic violations. While some minor infractions might not seem like a big deal, accumulating too many points on your license can lead to severe consequences, including license suspension. The Spizman Firm understands how this system works and is here to help protect your license.
How the Point System Works in Georgia
Every time you’re convicted of a traffic violation in Georgia, points are added to your driving record. The number of points assigned depends on the severity of the offense. For example, speeding 15-18 mph over the limit will result in 2 points, failure to obey a traffic control device is 3 points, reckless driving is 4 points, and aggressive driving is 6 points. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) keeps track of these points, which can accumulate quickly if you’re not careful.
The Threshold for Suspension
In Georgia, if you accumulate 15 or more points within a 24-month period, your license will be suspended. This rule applies to drivers aged 21 and older. For drivers under 21, the penalties are stricter; accumulating just 4 points for a single offense can result in an automatic suspension.
Consequences of Too Many Points
When your license is suspended due to excessive points, the consequences can be far-reaching. You will lose your driving privileges until your suspension is lifted, and insurance companies often view drivers with high point totals as high-risk, leading to increased premiums. Additionally, a suspended license can impact your job, especially if driving is part of your employment, and restoring your license involves paying fees, attending classes, and meeting other requirements set by the DDS.
How to Reduce Points on Your License
The good news is that Georgia offers ways to reduce the points on your license. Completing a state-approved defensive driving course can remove up to 7 points from your driving record once every 5 years. Additionally, points remain on your record for 2 years, so if you can avoid further violations, older points will eventually drop off.
How to Prevent License Suspension
If you’re at risk of accumulating too many points, taking proactive steps is essential. You have the right to contest a traffic ticket in court, and with the help of an experienced attorney, you might get the charges reduced or dismissed, avoiding the addition of points to your record. In some cases, your attorney may negotiate for lesser charges that don’t add points to your license. Consulting a knowledgeable traffic attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Georgia’s point system and protect your driving privileges.
Closing Thoughts
Accumulating too many points on your license in Georgia can have significant consequences, but you don’t have to face it alone. The experienced Atlanta criminal defense attorneys at The Spizman Firm are here to help you protect your rights and maintain your driving privileges. We proudly serve Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for skilled legal representation.
Source:
dds.georgia.gov/points-and-points-reduction
