Are Surcharges Really That Big of a Deal?
No doubt you have plans on how you intend to spend your money. It could be that you are even looking at some nice investment opportunities. Without question, no one wants to consider the expense associated with paying surcharges. Unfortunately, they are part of the price you pay for a traffic ticket conviction.
In New Jersey, all it takes is six motor vehicle points to get you on the Motor Vehicle Commission’s radar (a place no driver wants to be). Therefore, it’s important that you know your options when you’re facing additional costs.
Driving can be a learning experience. The new driver is often eager and, frankly, impulsive. One 4-point ticket for improper passing and one 2-point ticket for going ten miles over the speed limit is all it takes. Truth be told, for new or less experienced drivers, this combination of tickets is not out of the realm of possibility. Unfortunately, the opportunity to accrue surcharges can be endless.
How Do Surcharges Work?
If you accumulate six or more points within three years from your last posted violation, you will receive a $150 surcharge plus $25 for each additional point. A points-based surcharge can result in a surcharge for three years. Failure to pay these surcharges will ultimately result in license suspension, costing you an additional $100 restoration fee. In addition to the accumulation of points, some offenses that automatically result in surcharges include:
- Driving without A License or with an Expired License ($300)
- Driving on a Suspended License ($750)
- Driving an Uninsured Vehicle ($750)
- First and Second DWI ($3,000)
- Third DWI within three years last offense ($4,500 total)
- Refusing BAC Test ($3,000)
New Jersey authorities never miss an opportunity to let you know that driving is a privilege, not a right. There’s a reason our state was voted the worst state to speed in a few years back.
What Can I Do to Avoid Surcharges?
It’s doubtful that anyone sets out to receive tickets. On the one hand, you already know that you need to drive responsibly. On the other, you may figure it’s worth taking chances to circumvent the law. It could be as simple as having no other way to get to work.
One way to avoid the surcharges is to consult with an attorney with experience in handling traffic violations. There are several options that may be available to you depending on your personal situation. While life and the road are full of second chances, you don’t want to have to pay any more than your share to keep driving.
Get The Legal Help You Need Now for Your Surcharges
If you’re facing potential surcharges or license suspension, contact the attorneys at Beninato & Matrafajlo today. We have years of experience protecting clients just like you from costly motor vehicle surcharges and traffic tickets, and we’re ready to fight on your behalf.