How Many Traffic Points and Their Effects in New Jersey

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If you drive in New Jersey, you should know how traffic points work and how they affect your insurance rates, cash flow, and driving ability. Traffic points are a way for New Jersey to support safe driving and stop people from breaking the law. In this blog, we’ll explain how many traffic points you can get, what they mean, and how they can change your life.

Why do we need traffic points?

When you break certain traffic laws in New Jersey, you will get traffic points added to your record. More points are added to your record if you break the law more seriously. If you get too many points, you could be fined, have your insurance rates go up, or even take your license away. To avoid these problems, you must keep track of how many points you have.

How do you add points to your record?

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) adds points to your driving record when you are found guilty of running a red light. If you break any of these rules, you will get points:

How do you add points to your record
  • Going 1 to 14 mph over the speed limit: 2 points
  • Four points for going 15 to 29 mph over the speed limit.
  • Going 30 miles or more over the speed limit: 5 points
  • Two points for running a red light.
  • Four points for bad passing
  • Five points for careless driving
  • Two points for not stopping for a person in a crossing.

These are only a few examples. There are a lot more driving mistakes that can cost you points.

Pro Tip: To avoid points on your driving record, always follow speed limits, obey traffic signals, and practice safe driving. Be mindful of pedestrians and avoid risky behaviors like careless driving or improper passing. Staying aware of traffic rules keeps you safe and helps you avoid costly penalties that can lead to higher insurance rates or license suspensions.

What Happens When You Earn Points?

What Happens When You Earn Points

Getting a lot of points on your driving record can lead to bad things. If you get too many, these things may happen:

Fines and extra fees

If you get six or more points in three years, you must pay an extra fee. The fee is $150 for the first six points and $25 for each point after that.

Suspension of licence

Your license will be taken away as soon as you get 12 or more points on your driving record. This means you will no longer be able to legally drive, which could affect your job, personal life, and daily routines.

Insurance rates went up.

Not only can getting traffic points make it harder for you to drive, but they can also raise the cost of your car insurance. When you get more points on your license, insurance companies see you as a bigger risk, which can make your rates go up a lot.

How to get rid of points on your record

There are, thankfully, ways to lower the number of points on your record. These are some of the most popular choices:

How to get rid of points on your record

Courses for defensive driving

The state will remove up to two points from your driving record if you take a safe driving course. You can eliminate points by taking this training once every five years. It’s a great way to get better at driving and lose points simultaneously.

Good Ways to Drive

Three points will automatically be taken off your driving record every year that you don’t get a traffic ticket. So, driving safely can help you avoid getting points and lower the number of points you already have over time.

Programs to help drivers get better

People with many points of view can use New Jersey’s Driver Improvement Program (DIP). You can eliminate three points from your record if you finish this program properly.

What Points Do in the Long Run

If you keep getting points, the results can get bad in the long run. This is how things could get worse:

Taking away the licence

We already said that if you get 12 points or more on your license, you cannot drive. If this happens, you’ll have to go through steps to get your license back, which could take a long time and cost a lot of money.

Loss of Job Opportunities

For some jobs, especially ones that involve driving, having a lot of points on your license or having your license stopped can keep you from getting hired. When you apply for a job, the company may look at your driving record.

Effects on money

Traffic points can cost much money through fines, fees, and higher insurance rates. At the end of the day, you could spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than you planned.

Not Getting Points in the First Place

Driving safely is the best way to escape the bad effects of traffic points. Here are some ways to avoid making points:

Not Getting Points in the First Place
  • Follow the speed limits. Going over the speed limit is one of the most common things that gets you points. Remember the speed limits and stick to them every time you drive.
  • If you run a red light or don’t stop at a stop sign, you’ll get extra points on your record. Wait your turn and follow all the traffic signs.
  • Keep your mind on the road. Texting or using your phone while driving can cause crashes and traffic tickets. Keep your eyes on the road to stay out of trouble.
  • Respect Other Drivers: Driving aggressively, like moving too closely or following too closely, can quickly earn you points. Always be polite and respectful to other drivers.

In conclusion

In New Jersey, traffic points are more than just a number. They can greatly affect your ability to drive, your insurance rates, and your finances. You can make better decisions on the road if you know how points are added and what happens when you get too many.

You can keep your record clean by using safe driving, defensive driving classes, and following New Jersey’s traffic rules. Remember that having fewer points means you will be safer and save money on your car insurance.

Be careful out there, and don’t get any points!

Pro Tips

  • Stay Alert on the Road – Always keep your focus on driving. Avoid distractions like using your phone or eating while driving.
  • Follow Speed Limits – Stick to the speed limits posted on signs. It keeps you safe and helps you avoid getting traffic points.
  • Take a Defensive Driving Course – A state-approved defensive driving course can remove points from your driving record and teach you how to drive safely.
  • Maintain a Safe Distance – Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. This gives you enough time to stop if needed.
  • Use Turn Signals – Always signal when turning or changing lanes. It helps other drivers know what you’re doing and prevents accidents.

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