In Michigan, as in many states, a point system is used to monitor and penalize driving infractions. This system isn’t just for keeping track; it directly affects your driving privileges and can have financial repercussions.
The Basics of the Michigan Driver’s License Point System
Every time you commit a moving violation in Michigan, points are added to your driving record. The Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office monitors your point total and takes action at certain thresholds. If you accumulate 4 points, you’ll receive a warning letter. This is an early indicator that you need to be more careful on the road. At 8 points, another warning letter is issued, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. However, reaching 12 points triggers a more serious response. You’ll be asked to undergo a driver reexamination, which could include a variety of tests, such as vision, knowledge, and road tests. You might also be asked to provide medical records. In the worst-case scenario, this could lead to your license being suspended, a significant disruption to your daily life.
Traffic Tickets / Motor Vehicle Violations and Their Points
The number of points you receive depends on the violation. For instance, 6-point violations are reserved for the most serious offenses like manslaughter, DUI, reckless driving, fleeing from police, or refusing a chemical test. These are considered severe because they pose a significant danger to public safety. On the other hand, 4-point violations are slightly less severe but still serious. These include activities like drag racing, impaired driving, underage drinking and driving, and excessive speeding. 3-point violations are more common and include speeding (11-15 MPH over the limit), careless driving, and failing to stop for a school bus. Lastly, many common minor violations are assigned 2 points. These include general moving violations and having an open alcohol container in the vehicle.
The Impact of Points on Your License on Insurance Rates
Points on your driving record can also lead to increased auto insurance rates. Insurers view drivers with higher points as higher risks, which typically results in higher premiums. This financial impact can be significant, so it’s important to understand how your driving record affects your insurance rates. If you’re concerned about this, it’s advisable to talk to your insurance agent or research how points might affect your insurance premiums.
Reducing Points Through Driver Improvement Courses
Michigan offers a way to reduce the points on your driving record through the Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC). These courses are state-approved and offer a way to improve your driving skills while reducing your point total. While not managed directly by the state, these courses can be helpful in allowing you to maintain a cleaner driving record and, in turn, potentially lower insurance rates.
Staying Informed and Proactive
It’s important to stay informed about your driving record. Regularly checking your record will help you understand your current point total and take necessary actions if needed. Being proactive about your driving habits and knowing the consequences of traffic violations in Michigan are key to maintaining a clean driving record.
How a Traffic Lawyer Helps
When you’re facing a traffic violation in Michigan, hiring a traffic ticket attorney can be a wise decision, especially if you’re concerned about points accumulating on your driver’s license. An attorney can offer significant assistance in managing the legal process, potentially helping you avoid points on your license.
First, an experienced traffic attorney understands how Michigan’s traffic laws and the court system works. This knowledge is important in evaluating your case and advising on the best course of action. For instance, they can identify any errors or legal technicalities that could lead to a dismissal or reduction of your charges.
Moreover, a traffic ticket attorney can represent you in court. This representation is particularly beneficial if your case is complex or involves a significant number of points. They can argue on your behalf, present evidence, and cross-examine witnesses, which might be challenging for you to do effectively on your own.
Another key benefit is negotiation. Attorneys often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges or penalties. This might mean reducing a violation that carries more points to one with fewer or no points, or in some cases, negotiating for alternative penalties like a defensive driving course instead of points on your license.
It’s important to note that hiring a traffic ticket attorney does not guarantee that you’ll avoid points on your license. However, their skill and experience increases the likelihood of a more favorable outcome than if you were to handle the case yourself. They can guide you through the process, ensuring that you understand your rights and the implications of any decisions made in your case.
Points Assessed for Common Traffic Tickets & Violations in Michigan
- Failure to Report Accident Causing Property Damage – 6 points
- Hit and Run Causing Injury – 6 points
- Hit and Run Causing Death – 6 points
- Fleeing the Police – 6 points
- Failure to Stop – 6 points
- OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) – 6 points
- Drag Racing – 4 points
- Reckless Driving – 6 points
- Moving Violation Causing Death – 6 points
- Careless Driving – 3 points
- Open Container – 2 points
- Driving with a Revoked or Suspended License – Varies (at least 2 points)
- Texting While Driving – Varies (0 for the first offense)
- Speeding – 1-4 points
- Running a Stop Sign | Failure to Yield – 3 points
- Running a Red Light | Disobeying Traffic Signal – 3 points
- Improper Turning | Prohibited Turning – 2 points
- Improper Passing | Failure to Signal – 3 points
- Unsafe Lane Change – 2 points
- Following too Closely (Tailgating) – 2 points
Consult a Traffic Ticket Lawyer for Help Avoiding Points On Your License & Fines
If you’re dealing with a motor vehicle offense in Michigan, it’s important not to delay seeking legal assistance. You can reach out to George Law by dialing (248) 247-7459 or reaching us online to schedule a consultation with a motor vehicle offense / traffic ticket lawyer. Our team will assist you with the legal process, clarifying your rights and choices, and striving for the most favorable result for your situation.
