Points Suspension Lawyer Florida: Protecting Your Rights

Common Violations That Lead to Points Suspension

Getting too many traffic tickets isn’t just expensive. It can result in a driver’s license suspension, higher insurance costs, and other penalties. Points usually stay on your driving record for three years, though violations may affect insurance premiums longer. Common traffic violations that can trigger a suspension period are:

• Speeding, especially more than 15 mph over the limit, adds 4 points; repeated offenses quickly escalate your point total.
• Reckless driving is a serious offense that results in 4 points and may lead to criminal charges in some cases.
• Red light and stop sign violations each add 4 points, while passing a stopped school bus adds 4–6 points, depending on the specifics.
• Leaving the scene of a crash with property damage is one of the most heavily penalized offenses, resulting in 6 points being added.

A points suspension lawyer at The Ticket Fighter Law Firm can review your driving record and explain how every violation affects your driver’s license. Our point suspension lawyers may recommend contesting a traffic ticket to preserve your driving privileges.

Consequences of License Suspension from Points

You face several consequences if your license is suspended for too many points:

Disruption of Life

Most Floridians rely on driving for work, caring for their families, and simply living their lives. Losing the ability to drive legally forces you to find alternative transportation, which may be impractical or unavailable.

Financial Burdens

First, you’ll face financial consequences for accumulating too many traffic tickets and points. Points on your driving record often lead to increased auto insurance premiums, as insurers view drivers with points as high-risk. A single violation adding 3 points can raise rates by up to 20%, costing drivers hundreds of dollars annually for at least three years, as points remain on the record for 36 months.

Additionally, reinstating a suspended license requires that you complete a 12-hour Advanced Driver Improvement course and pay for reinstatement. You may also face challenges renting vehicles or securing specific jobs, particularly those that require a clean driving record, which further compounds the economic costs.

Lack of Mobility

The loss of driving privileges in Florida compromises your mobility and independence, particularly in areas with limited public transit. For many, driving is essential for commuting to work, attending school, or making medical appointments. Teen drivers face stricter penalties; six points in 12 months restrict their license to “business purposes only” for a year or until they reach the age of 18, with each additional point extending this restriction by 90 days. This restriction can restrict their education, social activities, or ability to gain driving experience, making compliance with traffic laws critical for young drivers.

Long-Term Consequences

A suspended driver’s license carries significant legal risks; driving during a suspension is a criminal offense that can trigger fines, jail time, or additional penalties. Accumulating 15 violations or three major crimes within 5 years can result in a 5-year revocation as a “Habitual Traffic Offender.” Even after points expire, violations remain on your driving record, which can affect insurance rates and job prospects.