How Small Traffic Violations Can Stack Up Against You

Ohio uses a driver’s license points system, which allows you to rack up as many as 12 points in a two-year period. Ohio state law dictates how points are calculated under Ohio Revised Code Sections 4510.037 through 4510.038. 

Here is a list of violations and their point value:

2-point violations

• Operating a motor vehicle in violation of a restriction imposed by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
• All other moving violations not listed below

4-point violations

• Reckless vehicle operation with willful or wanton
• Disregard for the safety of other people or property
• Operating a vehicle with an unlawful concentration of alcohol under age 21

6-point violations

• Aggravated vehicular homicide, manslaughter or assault
• Eluding or fleeing a law enforcement officer
• Failure to stop at the scene of an accident
• Driving with a suspended or invalid license
• Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent
• Using a motor vehicle to commit any felony
• Street racing

So, according to the chart above, three relatively minor speeding tickets in a year could garner a six-point hit to your license, and you’d be half way to a license suspension. The “good” news is that if you attend a non-court mandated traffic school, you’re eligible for a one-time (within a three-year period), two-point reduction. You may only take five two-point credits in a lifetime.

A traffic conviction occurs when you pay a speeding ticket, accept a plea bargain, enter a no contest plea, or enter a guilty plea. If you’re facing even relatively minor traffic violation tickets, but have accumulated more than two in the past year, seeking the advice of an attorney who is well versed in Ohio traffic laws would definitely be to your long-term advantage.

Keep in mind though that even if you lose your driving privileges, judges will sometimes make exceptions to the suspension.  You may usually request limited driving privileges during driver’s license suspensions for work, educational, vocational, or medical reasons.  

Also be aware that your insurance company will most likely check your driving record with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles at renewal time and could increase your insurance rates as a result of these minor violations.

Do you need a traffic violation attorney in Columbus, Ohio?

If you are facing accumulating points on your license, you need an attorney who is knowledgeable in dealing with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles’ process, procedures and regulations. Get the representation of a skilled and trusted traffic violation attorney who can give you the help you need. The Maher Law Firm can help make sure that your rights are protected. Founding attorney, Colin Maher has in-depth knowledge and experience working with traffic violation cases and he will put his skills at your service. Call The Maher Law Firm today for a free consultation at 614-205-2208 or contact us online.