Getting a traffic ticket can be more than just an inconvenience. In some cases, it can have a lasting effect on your driving record and can lead to everything from increased insurance rates to even a suspension of your license. That\u2019s why, as a Maryland driver, it\u2019s important for you to understand the state\u2019s point system, so that you know what consequences you might be facing if you get a citation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How it works<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a situation where earning extra points is not <\/em>a good thing. <\/em>Maryland’s point system assigns points to your driving record for various traffic violations; the points are basically a reflection of your driving behavior and lead to penalties if you accumulate too many. The higher the point value of the violation, the more it affects your record. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Common violations and their point values<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Different traffic violations have different point values in Maryland. For example, if you\u2019re pulled over for driving up to 9 miles an hour over the posted speed limit, you might get 1 point on your license. Tailgating another car or failing to fully stop at a stop sign will also earn you a point. More serious offenses lead to more substantial point penalties; running a red light is a 3-point offense, while driving under the influence (DUI) is 5 points. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Point accumulation (and expiration)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you accumulate 8 to 11 points within a two-year period, you might be ordered to participate in a mandatory driver improvement program. Accumulating 12 or more points in the same time period can result in your license being suspended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Generally speaking, the points you accrue from a violation stay on your record for two years from the date of the violation. After this two-year period, the points associated with that violation are automatically removed. (Bear in mind, though, that if your insurance premiums go up as a result of these points, those premiums won\u2019t necessarily decrease after the points disappear.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n Minimizing points – and their consequences<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There are a few things you can do to limit your chances of getting points on your license, as well as strategies for mitigating the consequences of those points once you get them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Drive safely.<\/em>Obviously, the best way to avoid getting points in your license is to drive safely and responsibly. Follow the speed limit and obey traffic signs; don\u2019t drive distracted (i.e., don\u2019t text and drive), and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contest the ticket.<\/em> If you feel as though you\u2019ve been unfairly penalized or that the officer who gave you the citation made a mistake, you have the option of contesting your ticket in court. If you\u2019re successful, you can prevent those points from being added to your record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take a defensive driving course. <\/em>Defensive driving courses in Maryland won\u2019t remove points from your record, but they may be able to help you earn a discount from your insurance company – which is very helpful if traffic violations have caused your premiums to increase. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Get in touch with a lawyer.<\/em> A qualified attorney with experience contesting traffic violations can help you determine if you have a case for removing some points from your license. They will review the circumstances surrounding your citation and walk you through your next steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n