What are the Points Assessed for Traffic Violations in New Jersey?

When you receive a summons for a traffic offense, it may seem like a relatively minor problem that can be easily resolved by paying a fine. Unfortunately, many of these traffic violations result in points assessed on your license and collateral consequences that you never anticipated. These repercussions may negatively impact your finances, insurance premiums, and even your ability to drive in New Jersey.

For example, if you accumulate 6 or more points on your license within 3 years, you will be assessed a surcharge. Surcharges can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the circumstances. In addition, if you accumulate 12 or more points on your driving record, your license will be suspended by the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles, which can significantly hinder your ability to conduct your daily life. Further, your insurance company may elect to raise your rates due to the points on your license, which can increase your monthly payments for years to come.

Some of the most serious traffic offenses in New Jersey include driving while intoxicated (DWI), tailgating, reckless driving, careless driving, and leaving the scene of an accident. The points assessed for each of these offenses are as follows:

  • Tailgating (N.J.S. 39:4–89): 5 points
  • Reckless Driving (N.J.S. 39:4–96): 5 points
  • Careless Driving (N.J.S. 39:4–97): 2 points
  • Leaving the Scene of an Accident (not resulting in personal injury) (N.J.S. 39:–129): 2 points
  • Leaving the Scene of an Accident (resulting in personal injury) (N.J.S. 39:–129): 8 points

There are two primary ways to address the potential points associated with traffic offenses in New Jersey. If you have already received points on your license, you can reduce the points on your license through any of the following:

  • One year with no violations or suspensions: subtract 3 points
  • Defensive Driving Program: subtract 2 points
  • Driver Improvement Program: subtract 3 points
  • Probationary Driver Program: subtract 3 points

Ideally, it is more desirable to avoid the assessment of points altogether. Often, an experienced traffic defense lawyer can work toward having the points assessed against you reduced while appearing on your behalf in court. If you have been issued a traffic ticket in or around Union County, contact my offices at (908) 481-4625 for additional information.

To learn more about New Jersey Traffic Violations, visit the State of New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website.