Even after getting several traffic citations, Todd just didn’t take his driving record very seriously. Then he got his new automobile insurance bill. It turns out that having points on your driving record is not just an empty bureaucratic threat. Automobile insurance costs more for people who with less than stellar driving records.
But why?
What ‘Points’ on Your Driving Record Means
When you are convicted of certain traffic violations, the Department of Motor Vehicles assesses points on your driving record. This simply shows anyone looking at your record that you have committed some kind of serious infraction.
And points add up based on the type of violation.
Let’s say you are convicted of going more than 10 miles over the speed limit. Your driving record receives one point. You might also receive points for the following:
2 points – illegal passing, driving on the wrong side of the road.
3 points – at fault in an accident that results in total bodily injury of more than $1,800 or property damage of more than $3,085.
4 points – passing a stopped school bus, reckless driving
8 points – driving while your license is revoked or suspended,
10 points – highway racing, eluding arrest
12 points – driving while impaired, manslaughter, or negligent homicide
To see a complete list, click this link. But how do points on your driving record become higher auto insurance premiums?
The Connection Between Points on Your Driving Record and Insurance
As mentioned above, automobile insurance costs more when you are at a greater risk. Having points on your driving record shows insurers that you have trouble obeying traffic laws or following police instructions. It might also give the impression that you are not concerned about hurting yourself or others.
According to one study, insurance premiums could increase 180% if you have two points on your driving record. But North Carolina uses a different system.
It’s called the Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP).
A Financial Incentive for Good Driving
North Carolina uses a unique way to encourage safe driving. Under state law, the Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) dictates how much insurance premiums will rise after certain traffic convictions.
The increases range from:
30% for one point to
340% for 12 points.
Many people will find it difficult or impossible to pay the increased insurance premiums. You may feel you might get points on your license because of a recent traffic violation. Talk to an experienced traffic law attorney as soon as possible. You might be able to minimize or avoid having points on your driving record.
About the Author
Attorney Leslie Craft has the experience you need to deal with traffic violations, especially those that could add points to your driving record. Ms. Craft’s goal is always to help her clients get past their legal problems and get on with their lives. Consultations are free and only take about 30 – 45 minutes of your time. Your options may surprise and even excite you!
To schedule a free personal consultation, call Craft Law Offices at (252) 752-0297 or email us at lesliecraftlaw@gmail.com. My offices are located in Greenville, Morehead City, and Rocky Mount for your convenience. I also represent clients in surrounding Eastern North Carolina communities, including Warrenton, Elizabeth City, Roanoke Rapids, Goldsboro, and Jacksonville.