Like many states, North Carolina uses a points system to penalize drivers who commit traffic violations. The concept is simple: Accumulate too many of these points within a certain amount of time, and your license may be suspended. But how many points can you get on your license before it’s suspended? Is there any way to avoid this penalty after a speeding ticket in North Carolina?
How Does North Carolina’s Demerit Point System Work?
According to the North Carolina Department of Transport, drivers may lose the right to drive if they accumulate too many points within a certain amount of time. 12 points within three years will result in an automatic suspension. Even if your license is later reinstated, you could lose your license once again if you accumulate 8 points within the next few years. In other words, repeat offenders face tougher standards in North Carolina.
This tough stance against repeat offenders also extends to the length of each suspension. A first suspension lasts for just 60 days, but a second suspension lasts 6 months. A third or subsequent suspension will last for one whole year – highlighting the need to fight traffic tickets whenever possible.
How Many Points Do I Get for a Speeding Ticket in North Carolina?
If you receive a speeding ticket, you also face the possibility of points on your license. If the speed limit is under 55 mph, you generally receive two points for each offense. If the speed limit is over 55 mph, you will usually get three points. It is possible to receive many more points for a single speeding offense in North Carolina. For example, truckers may receive up to six points for a speeding offense if they are also violating certain cargo requirements.
North Carolina’s DMV handbook also states that if you speed while trying to avoid arrest, you could face an automatic one-year suspension.
How Do I Avoid a License Suspension With Too Many Points?
It may be possible to avoid a suspension if you fight the speeding ticket that “pushed you over the edge,” so to speak. For example, you might have 9 points on your license. If you receive one more speeding ticket worth three points, your license will be suspended. If you successfully fight this ticket with help from an experienced lawyer, however, you could keep your driving rights.
Can a North Carolina Speeding Ticket Lawyer Help Me?
If you face the prospect of losing your license due to too many points, you might want to contact an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in North Carolina. These legal professionals can help you fight your tickets with efficiency and confidence. With the right approach, you can keep your points low and stay on the road. To learn more about the next steps, reach out to Coastal South Law at your earliest convenience.
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