A speeding ticket or a crash can add points to your New Jersey driving record. Points can raise your insurance costs and, at higher totals, put your license at risk. Here is how the system works and what to think about if you are dealing with points after a crash.

How the Point System Works

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) adds points to a driver’s record after a conviction for a moving violation. More serious violations carry more points. Paying a ticket generally counts as a guilty plea, so points usually post once the payment is made.

Common Point Values

Speeding is the most common point violation. As commonly listed, going 1 to 14 mph over the limit adds 2 points, 15 to 29 mph over adds 4 points, and 30 mph or more over adds 5 points. Reckless driving carries 5 points, and failing to yield, such as failing to yield at an intersection or to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, typically adds 2 points.

Leaving the scene of an accident also adds points, and the number is higher when someone is injured. Point values can change, so check the MVC’s current schedule before relying on any specific figure.

When Points Lead to Surcharges

Points can also trigger surcharges, which are separate from your insurance premium. Under MVC surcharge rules, a driver who accumulates six or more points within three years is charged a $150 surcharge, plus $25 for each point over six. The surcharge is assessed annually for three years.

Points do not stay on your record forever. The MVC reduces points for each 12 consecutive months without a new violation or suspension. Those reductions do not lower a surcharge that has already been assessed.

When Points Can Lead to a Suspension

Reaching 12 points can lead to a license suspension. Suspension rules depend on the details of your record, so check with the MVC or a lawyer before assuming what applies to you.

Points After a Crash

If you were in a crash, the other driver’s points do not by themselves prove who caused it. A citation can be disputed, and insurers often look at driving records when deciding how much to pay. If you got a ticket after a crash, do not assume it settles fault. Talk to a lawyer before you plead guilty or pay the ticket, because that decision can affect both your record and your claim.

How Blaise Injury Law Can Help

If a crash in Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel or elsewhere in South Jersey left you hurt, and a ticket or points are part of the picture, Blaise Injury Law offers a free consultation. This article is general information and not legal advice.

Call (856) 340-5685 or visit our contact page to get started today.