Speeding tickets are a common occurrence on Georgia’s roads, and understanding the state’s points system is crucial for drivers to avoid license suspension and increased insurance rates. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) maintains a points system to track and penalize drivers for moving violations, including speeding. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of the Georgia points system, exploring how it works, the points assigned to various offenses, and the consequences of accumulating too many points.
How the Georgia Points System Works
The Georgia points system is designed to monitor and regulate driver behavior. When a driver is convicted of a moving violation, such as speeding, recklessness, or failure to yield, they receive a certain number of points on their license, depending on the severity of the offense. These points remain on the driver’s record for two years from the date of conviction. If a driver accumulates too many points within a specified period, their license may be suspended.
Points Assigned to Common Offenses
The points assigned to various offenses in Georgia vary, reflecting the severity and potential danger of each violation. Here’s a breakdown of some common offenses and their corresponding point values:
- Speeding: 2-6 points, depending on the speed. For example, speeding up to 10 mph over the limit is 2 points, while speeding 31 mph or more over the limit is 6 points.
- Reckless driving: 4 points
- Failure to yield: 3 points
- Improper passing: 4 points
- Driving under the influence (DUI): 12 points (High and Aggravated range, and can result in immediate license suspension)
- Hit and run: 6 points
Consequences of Accumulating Points
The consequences of accumulating points on your Georgia driver’s license are severe and should not be taken lightly. Here’s what happens at different point thresholds:
- 15-18 points within 24 months: The driver will receive a warning letter from the DDS.
- 19-22 points within 24 months: The driver’s license will be suspended for 6 months for the first suspension, 12 months for the second suspension, and 2 years for the third suspension.
- 23 points or more within 24 months: The suspension follows the same pattern as above, but the driver may also be required to complete a defensive driving course or other corrective actions before their license is reinstated.
Defensive Driving Courses and Point Reduction
Georgia allows drivers to attend a state-approved defensive driving course to reduce the number of points on their license. By completing such a course, a driver can reduce their point total by up to 7 points once every 5 years. However, this reduction does not remove the violation from the driver’s record, and the course must be completed before the suspension date if the driver is facing a potential license suspension.
Tips for Avoiding Points and License Suspension
While the points system is in place to encourage safe driving practices, there are several strategies drivers can employ to avoid accumulating points and facing license suspension:
- Drive Safely: The most obvious way to avoid points is to follow all traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits.
- Attend Traffic School: If you do receive a ticket, consider attending traffic school to reduce the points.
- Contest Tickets: If you believe a ticket was issued unfairly, you have the right to contest it in court.
- Maintain a Clean Record: Avoiding moving violations for an extended period can help keep your point total low.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I accumulate 15 points within 24 months in Georgia?
+If you accumulate 15 points within 24 months, you will receive a warning letter from the Georgia Department of Driver Services. This is a preliminary step before more severe actions are taken for higher point totals.
Can I reduce my points by attending a defensive driving course in Georgia?
+Yes, Georgia allows drivers to reduce their points by up to 7 points once every 5 years by attending a state-approved defensive driving course. This can be a beneficial step in avoiding license suspension.
How long do points stay on my driving record in Georgia?
+Points remain on a driver's record for 2 years from the date of conviction in Georgia. After this period, the points are automatically removed, but the violation itself may remain on the record for a longer period.
Understanding and navigating the Georgia points system requires attention to detail and a proactive approach to maintaining a clean driving record. By being aware of the points assigned to different offenses, the consequences of accumulating points, and the strategies for reducing points and avoiding license suspension, drivers can better protect their driving privileges and ensure their safety on the road. Remember, safe driving practices are not only beneficial for avoiding points but also for preventing accidents and saving lives.
