The Wisconsin DMV uses a point system to track and enforce traffic violations in the state. If you receive a ticket for speeding, you will be assigned a certain number of points based on the severity of the violation. If you rack up too many of these points you can have your driver’s license revoked, among other penalties.
The Points
There are four basic point categories that can be issued for a standard Class D license. They are outlined below with some of the common corresponding offenses:
- 2 Points: Having a defective speedometer, parking in a traffic lane on the highway
- 3 Points: Driving the wrong way on a one way, exceeding the speed limit by 1-10 mph, driving without a license, tailgating, illegal passing, not using your turn signal.
- 4 Points: Unnecessary acceleration, exceeding the speed limit by 11-19 mph, not stopping for a school bus, inattentive driving, failure to yield.
- 6 Points: Exceeding the speed limit by over 20 mph, OWI, eluding an officer, reckless driving.
These are just a few of the most common violations. You can check out more on the Wisconsin DMV website.
Consequences
These points come with a set of consequences, both criminal and civil. When you accrue 12 or more points within a year, your driver’s license will be immediately suspended for two months.
Points also have a direct impact on your auto insurance. The more points on your record, the higher your insurance premiums.
Getting Points Reduced
It is possible to reduce your points. Every five years, your record will be reduced by one point. However, this does not apply if you have 12 or more points. You can also take a traffic safety course to reduce your record by three points.
A defense attorney may be able to fight your case at trial to get your points lowered and possibly charges dropped.
