While you may assume that a speeding ticket in New Jersey is resolved once the fine is paid, such citations are actually part of a structured point system that can significantly impact your driving record, insurance premiums, and even your driving privileges. Understanding the specific penalties and how New Jersey’s point system really works is essential to grasp what is truly at stake. Keep reading as we examine the points associated with various speeding violations and discuss how a dedicated Morristown Traffic Violation Lawyer can help protect your interests.
How Many Points Does Speeding Actually Add to Your New Jersey License?
If you’ve been accused of speeding in New Jersey, the points assigned largely depend on how far over the speed limit you were traveling:
- Driving between 1 and 14 mph over the limit: 2 points
- Driving between 15 and 29 mph over the limit: 4 points
- Driving 30 mph or more over the limit: 5 points
Does New Jersey Run Two Separate Point Systems?
Understanding the distinction between the two separate point systems utilized for speeding violations in New Jersey is critical for any motorist:
- MVC Points: Managed by the Motor Vehicle Commission, these points directly impact your driving privileges. Accumulating 12 points results in an administrative license suspension, which is processed separately from any municipal court rulings.
- NJSAIP Insurance Points: This secondary system is employed exclusively to determine state-mandated insurance surcharges. It’s important to note that the point values assigned here often differ from those recorded by the MVC.
What Happens When Insurance Points Add Up?
If you rack up 6 or more insurance points in three years, you will face a state-billed surcharge. It starts at $150 for those first 6 points, but another $25 is added for every point after that. Keep in mind, you will be billed this amount annually for three years, and it’s completely separate from any rate hikes from your insurance provider.
What Happens When MVC Points Reach 12?
If you accumulate 12 points on your MVC record, the state will suspend your license, regardless of what happens in court for any single ticket. Additionally, some violations like driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving without insurance can get your driving privileges taken away immediately, even if you don’t have many points.
Can You Reduce Your Points?
In New Jersey, motorists can automatically receive a 3-point reduction on their record if they maintain a clean driving history for 12 months. This credit is granted once every two years without any need for registration. Furthermore, finishing a state-certified defensive driving program can reduce your points by as much as 2 points, while potentially securing a lower insurance premium through your provider.
As you can see, a New Jersey speeding ticket can have far-reaching consequences. Contact Graves Andrews, LLC today to schedule a consultation. Our legal team is prepared to help you understand your options and fight for the best possible outcome.