Sometimes drivers take chances without knowing the consequences of their actions, even Batman.
While traveling on the roadways violations can occur without notice. A driver has a lot of control on how they operating a vehicle which can save them from costly violations going on their permanent driving record.Our driving history/record controls our ability to obtain the lowest insurance rates possible. Our driving history also determines the ability to receive discounts on insurance premiums. One’s driving record can be compared to a report card and even the slightest mark can raise doubt which increases your rates every month. That why keeping a perfect driving record is important and also shows a sense on one’s pride.
How does the point system affect you?
The state of California uses a point system to monitor and control the behaviors of California licensed motorists. The number of points accessed to a drivers’ driving records is different depending on the type of violation that a motorists is accused of. California motorist should know and understand that your driving privileges can be suspended or revoked if you do any of the following:
- Receive four points or more within a 12-month period.
- Receive six points or more within 24-month period.
- Lastly, receive eight points or more within a 36-month period.
On the other hand, there are certain traffic violations that result in an automatic suspension of their license. These violations consist of DUI, lack of insurance, failure to appear in court, drinking while underage, or refusal to submit to an alcohol or drug test.The DMV maintains a record of all traffic related convictions or accidents. A motorist can receive a ticket from a violation or an accident. Each incident is assigned a point to that driver’s record. Drivers driving history is public record for anyone that wishes to have a copy of the driving record. A driver may access his or her own driving record on the DMV website. However, any other person that wish to access a copy of a person’s driving record, can do so by submitting a Request for Record Information (INF 70) and paying the associated small fee.
How long does a violation or points stay on a driver record?
Time is an important determination in what remains on a driver’s record. Depending on the severity of the offense, this factor decides the length of time a violation stays on a record. For instance, most traffic violations such as speeding, not obeying traffic signals or signs, making illegal turns, child restraints, or failing to make a complete stop are considered one-point violations and remain on your permanent driving record for 36 months.Drivers who tend to break the law with more serious offenses such DUI or hit and runs, can look forward to such offenses staying on their driving record for up to 7 years.
What a driver can do to avoid losing points?
Drivers should practice good driving habits to avoid violations or accidents being recorded on their permanent record. One way to do this is by obeying all traffic laws, driving defensively, and following all provisional driving rules. Driving distracted is dangerous and one of the most common ways to cause a violation or an accident.Drivers should avoid these dangerous actions when operating a car:
- Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
- Speed or drag racing, or attempting to evade law enforcement, and other unlawful acts.
- Reckless driving such as improper lane changing, speeding, or improper turns, also including not paying attention to road and weather conditions.
- An aggressive attitude towards other motorists does not demonstrate good driving practices.
- Eliminate the use of a cell phone. Most importantly, do not text, make social media posts, and take selfies while driving.
- Passengers, the radio, changing CD’s and eating should all be attended to before driving.
A clean driving record goes a long way. Having zero points on a driving record helps a maintain their driving privileges and assists in obtaining the most desirable insurance premium. A clean driving record is ideal for most commercial drivers. A clean driving record also determines whether the position or job that a person really wants is obtainable. Drivers should make every effort to keep the roads safe and their driving record spotless. If you need professional assistance give us a call we are experts at keeping driving records squeaky clean and insurance premiums at a bare minimum.