On the way home, a flashing light in your rearview mirror can be a heart-stopping moment. A simple traffic stop can quickly turn into points on your license, impacting your insurance rates and driving privileges. But how do you find out if you have points on your license?
In Virginia, understanding the point system and how to check your balance is crucial. This guide will walk you through how to determine how many points are on your license and what it means for you.
Virginia uses a demerit point system for traffic violations. The more serious the offense, the more points you accumulate. Points count against you for two years, but they still show up on your record for as long as the conviction itself appears. However, Virginia rewards good drivers with “safe driving points.”
These are assigned based on the severity of the violation. Here’s a general overview:
As you can see, the number of points increases as the offense level increases.
Every year you drive without a violation, you earn one safe driving point, up to a maximum of five. Your safe driving points balance in VA can offset demerit points, potentially reducing the impact of any violations. Driving safely and avoiding infractions is essential to maintain a good driving record.
Reinstating a suspended license involves completing a driving improvement course, paying reinstatement fees, and meeting other requirements determined by the DMV.
How do I find out how many points are on my license in VA? Here are some of the official methods:
Remember, the DMV is the official source for your point balance. Information from other sources, like insurance companies, might not be current.
How many points can you get on your license? Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can lead to a license suspension and other penalties:
You’ll also deal with insurance issues. Insurance companies often increase premiums for drivers with points on their records, resulting in higher overall costs for maintaining auto insurance coverage. Some insurers may decline to cover you.
For professional drivers or those whose jobs require a clean driving record, points can jeopardize employment. Points on a driving record can also impact job opportunities, as some employers may view multiple infractions as a liability. In some cases, accumulating points may result in job loss or difficulty finding new employment.
It’s easy to check your driving record points. However, understanding the legal consequences of traffic violations and a potential license suspension can be a real headache. If you’re worried about too many points on your license, a skilled traffic attorney can help by:
The right legal strategy can be your lifeline, as it can save your driving privileges, keep your license clean, and keep your insurance rates low.
Think of your driver’s license as a savings account. Every safe driving point is a deposit, but every demerit point is a withdrawal. When your balance gets too low, you’re in trouble. Don’t wait until you’re facing suspension or skyrocketing insurance rates.
At Flusche & Fitzgerald, we have decades of experience handling Virginia traffic and misdemeanor cases. Our firm has built strong relationships with local prosecutors and judges, giving us unique insight into how to strategize for the best possible outcome.
We know what it takes to protect your license, and we’ll use our skills to keep you on the road. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
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