All things considered, it’s neither a rhetorical nor trick question. When it comes to how many traffic points is too many, the answer starts with one. In the meantime, traffic violations start at two point tickets.
That said, there’s something else that warrants consideration. Traffic points aren’t the issue when it comes to motor vehicle offenses. You also risk insurance points. And, those translate to a whole lot of money when it comes to dipping into your wallet. And, this counts for just about every violation.
Consider this typical situation. You’re on the New Jersey Turnpike racing to get to Newark Airport on time. Meanwhile, you don’t think of yourself as speeding at all. It’s not as if you’re passing traffic. As far as you’re concerned, you’re keeping up with it.
The trooper who pulls you over disagrees with your assessment of the situation. In the first place, you should know that the maximum speed limit on the Turnpike between Exit 1 and Exit 13 registers at 65 MPH. Anytime you travel further north on the New Jersey Turnpike, the speed limit changes to 55 MPH.
It’s a fact many don’t realize until a state trooper reminds them that they’ve passed a few signs marking speed limits. In the meantime, the difference in points might make matters work.
For example, say you’re going 72 MPH in an area where the speed limit says 65 MPH. At least you’re traveling at less than 9 MPH over the limit and are facing a 2-point violation. That same speed in a 55 MPH zone exposes you to 4 points.
Why You Don’t Want Traffic Points
It’s actually plain and simple. Traffic points equate to more than fines and court costs. If you’re caught driving less than 10 MPH over the limit, you’ll owe the state $85. You’ll also need to pay court costs of $34 if you decide to fight the ticket and are found guilty. And, if you’re charged where the posted speed is 65 MPH, your fine gets doubled.
What about if you’re charged with going 15 MPH over the posted speed? You now face a fine of $105, which quickly goes up to $200 if you are clocked at 2O MPH in excess of the speed limit. Hopefully, you’re not in an area where the speed limited posted is 65 MPH.
Of course, speeding tickets are not the only offense that motor vehicle operators face. As you might know firsthand, it’s easy to accumulate traffic points.
What are the consequences? In the first place, six points within three years adds to your expense. Unfortunately, it’s entirely possible to accumulate six points in one motor vehicle stop. You will be assessed insurance surcharges as a result.
However, it’s more than that when it comes to problems. Twelve points and your license gets suspended. What was expensive just became inconvenient. (You’re surely nodding your head now, wondering how you can afford all the fines if you can’t get to work.)
Contact Us
The bottom line is that traffic points represent a problem that calls for experienced legal representation. The Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafajlo can help you. Give us a call to speak with us about your motor vehicle stop.
