Many people view a traffic ticket as a simple annoyance—a fine to pay and a few points added to their license. But what happens when those points start to add up? Suddenly, that minor inconvenience becomes a significant problem that can threaten your ability to drive.
At Grabski & Shah, we have seen how quickly a series of traffic offenses can jeopardize an individual's driving privileges. Our attorneys, Jared Grabski and Meghal Shah, bring dedicated legal support to people in this situation. A mistake on the road shouldn't derail your life, and we are committed to helping you protect your license.
Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, we strive to provide knowledgeable help when you need it. Our experienced traffic law attorneys can help you understand how traffic offenses can lead to the loss of your license and the actions you can take if this occurs.
Understanding the Impact of Traffic Violations
A single speeding ticket might not seem like a big deal. You pay the fine, accept the points, and move on. However, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) keeps a close watch on your driving record. Each traffic violation adds points, and accumulating too many within a specified period can result in an automatic suspension of your license.
This is where things can get serious. Losing your license can significantly impact your ability to commute to work, drop off your kids at school, run errands, and manage daily life. It can also lead to job loss, increased insurance premiums, and significant personal stress. At Grabski & Shah, we understand how important your driver’s license is, and we work to help you understand the potential outcomes of your situation.
The Colorado Driver's License Point System
Colorado uses a point system to track driving infractions. Different violations carry different point values. For example, a minor speeding ticket might result in one or two points, while more serious offenses, such as reckless driving, can add eight points. The DMV will suspend your license if you accumulate too many points within a specific time frame.
The thresholds that trigger a license suspension vary based on your age and license type. Understanding these limits can help you see how close you might be to losing your driving privileges. A few tickets in a short period could be enough to push you over the edge.
Point Thresholds for License Suspension
The state of Colorado has established clear point totals that lead to a license suspension. These totals depend on the driver's age and are categorized as follows:
Adult drivers (21 and over): Your license will be suspended if you accumulate 12 points within 12 months or 18 points within 24 months.
Minor drivers (18 to 20): For this age group, the limits are lower. A suspension occurs with nine points in 12 months, 12 points in 24 months, or 14 points over the entire time they are a minor.
Minor drivers (Under 18): The rules are even stricter for the youngest drivers. A license can be suspended for getting six points in 12 months or seven points before turning 18.
These points are added to your record upon conviction or payment of a ticket. This is why simply paying the fine is an admission of guilt and will result in points being assessed against your license.
Common Traffic Offenses and Point Values
To give you a better idea of how quickly points can accumulate, it's important to understand the common traffic violations in Colorado and the points associated with them. These typically include the following.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI): 12 points (results in an immediate license revocation)
Leaving the scene of an accident: 12 points
Speeding (40+ mph over limit): 12 points
Reckless driving: 8 points
Careless driving: 4 points
Improper passing: 4 points
Failure to yield right-of-way: 3 points
Speeding (5-9 mph over limit): 1 point
Driving with a defective headlight: 1 point
A combination of a few seemingly minor tickets can easily add up. For instance, a careless driving ticket and a failure to yield ticket together equal seven points, which would be enough to suspend the license of a driver under 18.
What to Do If You're Facing License Suspension
If you receive a notice from the DMV about a pending license suspension, you have the right to request a hearing. This hearing is a chance to present your case and argue why your license should not be suspended. This is a crucial step, and having legal representation can be extremely beneficial.
At the hearing, an administrative officer will review your driving record, the circumstances of your recent tickets, and any arguments you present. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you prepare for this hearing by gathering evidence, structuring your arguments, and representing you before the DMV. Your attorney might also be able to argue for a probationary license, also known as a "red license," which allows you to drive to and from work, school, and other necessary appointments.
Ignoring a traffic ticket or a suspension notice is the worst thing you can do. Failing to appear in court can result in a bench warrant for your arrest, and driving with a suspended license is a separate criminal offense with its own severe penalties, including potential jail time and an extended suspension period.
The Benefit of Legal Support for Traffic Offenses
Many people hesitate to hire an attorney for a traffic ticket, thinking it's not worth the cost. However, when your license is on the line, professional legal advice can be valuable. An attorney can review the details of your traffic stop and ticket to identify potential defenses. Was the officer's radar gun properly calibrated? Was there a valid reason for the traffic stop?
In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a less serious offense with fewer points. For example, a speeding ticket might be reduced to a non-moving violation, which carries no points. This can be the difference between keeping your license and losing it. An attorney will look at the big picture, aiming to protect not just your driving record but also your ability to manage your daily life without interruption.
Traffic Law Attorneys in Colorado Springs, Colorado
At Grabski & Shah, we understand the importance of adhering to Colorado's laws and regulations. We also know that a simple error, such as missing a court date or filing the wrong form, can have lasting adverse consequences. When you are dealing with a traffic violation, it is valuable to have your case managed correctly from the outset.
Our attorneys, Jared Grabski and Meghal Shah, provide thoughtful and strategic legal help when you are facing a difficult time. We are here to advocate for clients in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and surrounding areas, helping them protect their rights and secure their futures. Call now for trustworthy legal representation in your traffic violation case.
