Effective Feb. 16, the New York State DMV has implemented a tougher driver point system. Point values for many traffic violations not only have increased, but points have been assigned where they previously did not exist.
In addition to the updated points, these regulations adjust the time frame in which DMV can take administrative action against a persistent violator, going from an 18-month look back to a 24-month look back. This means that points will stay on your license for 24 months rather than 18.
Many existing point assignments, such as the five points for any violation involving a mobile phone or portable electronic device while driving or zero points for equipment violations, will remain as they are, with no additional changes. Below are the new points for traffic violations, along with the points previously assigned. They significantly lower the threshold for license suspension for many common traffic violations.
— DWI, DWAI, aggravated DWI, refusing to submit to a chemical test and DWAI-drugs are now 11 points. Previously, no points were assigned.
— Aggravated unlicensed operation first, second or third degree is now 11 points, formerly zero.
— Passing a stopped school bus now eight points, formerly five points.
— Speeding in a construction zone is now eight points, formerly based on speed.
— Over-height vehicles striking a bridge is now eight points, formerly zero.
— Leaving the scene of a personal injury crash is now five points, up from three.
— Failure to exercise due care is now five points, formerly two.
— Speed contests and races are now five points, previously zero.
— Facilitating aggravated unlicensed operation is now five points, previously zero.
Point values are charged against your record from the date you commit the violation while points are not added to your license until after adjudication in court. If a NY driver is convicted of a traffic violation in Ontario or Quebec, points count because of reciprocal agreements with these provinces.
Warning letters will be issued once you accumulate as few as four points within 24 months. A mandatory driver improvement clinic, separate from standard defensive driving courses, must be completed for drivers with as few as seven points. Points still trigger a $100 per year fee for three years if six or more points are accumulated. Points can be reduced by completing a Point and Insurance Reduction Program course.
“These updated regulations will have no impact on drivers who follow the rules of the road, but they will have a big impact on dangerous drivers and repeat offenders whose poor choices always put other drivers, passengers and pedestrians at risk,” said NYS DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Our job is to make sure that New York’s roads are safe for everyone, and if someone chooses to be reckless and unsafe, they do not deserve to be behind the wheel.”
Driving is a privilege, not a right. If you obey the traffic laws, you won’t have to worry about the points against your license.