Georgia DDS Point System
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Point System is a structured system used to track and penalize drivers for traffic violations. Points are added to a driver’s record for each violation, and accumulating too many points within a specified timeframe can lead to license suspension. The point system is designed to promote safer driving habits and discourage repeat offenses. At 770GoodLaw, we help clients facing traffic violations and point-related penalties, providing guidance on how to reduce points, contest citations, and protect their driving privileges.
How the Georgia DDS Point System Works
Under Georgia’s DDS Point System, each traffic violation is assigned a specific number of points, depending on the severity of the offense. Points remain on a driver’s record for 24 months from the date of the offense, and drivers who accumulate too many points risk license suspension. Key aspects of the point system include:
- Adult Drivers: Drivers aged 18 and older may face license suspension if they accumulate 15 points within a 24-month period.
- Underage Drivers: Drivers under the age of 18 face suspension if they accumulate 4 points in 12 months.
- Driver’s License Reinstatement: To reinstate a suspended license, drivers may need to complete a defensive driving course, pay fines, or comply with additional DDS requirements.
Points Assigned for Common Traffic Violations in Georgia
Each traffic offense carries a designated number of points. Some common violations and their associated points are:
- Speeding:
- 15-18 mph over the limit: 2 points
- 19-23 mph over the limit: 3 points
- 24-33 mph over the limit: 4 points
- 34 mph or more over the limit: 6 points
- Reckless Driving: 4 points
- Illegal Passing of a School Bus: 6 points
- Following Too Closely (Tailgating): 3 points
- Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device: 3 points
- Improper Passing: 4 points
- Texting While Driving: 1 point
Consequences of Accumulating Points on Your Record
Accumulating points on your driving record can result in several consequences:
- License Suspension: Drivers who reach the maximum point threshold (15 points for adults and 4 points for drivers under 18) within the given time period face license suspension.
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Points on a driving record often result in higher insurance rates, as insurance companies view drivers with points as high-risk.
- Defensive Driving Course Requirement: Drivers may be required to complete a DDS-approved defensive driving course to reduce points or qualify for license reinstatement.
Reducing Points on Your Driving Record
In Georgia, there are ways to reduce points on a driving record to avoid penalties:
- Complete a Defensive Driving Course: Georgia drivers can remove up to 7 points once every 5 years by completing a defensive driving course approved by the DDS.
- Avoid Additional Violations: Points expire after 24 months from the date of the violation. By avoiding new violations, drivers can prevent additional points from accumulating.
- Contesting Tickets: Working with an attorney to challenge a citation may lead to reduced charges or dismissal, preventing points from being added.
Challenging Traffic Violations and Citations
If you receive a traffic citation, contesting it may be an option to avoid points and penalties:
- Court Representation: An attorney can represent you in court, providing evidence and arguments to challenge the citation.
- Negotiating Reduced Charges: Attorneys may be able to negotiate a plea for a lesser offense with fewer points or no points at all.
- Potential Dismissal: If there are procedural errors or lack of evidence, the citation may be dismissed.
How 770GoodLaw Assists Clients with the Georgia DDS Point System
At 770GoodLaw, we are committed to helping clients protect their driving records and avoid the negative consequences of accumulating points. Our services include:
- Evaluating Your Case: We assess the specifics of your traffic citation to determine the best course of action, whether that means contesting the ticket or negotiating a reduction.
- Representation in Traffic Court: Our team provides skilled representation in court, aiming to reduce charges or avoid points on your record.
- Assisting with License Reinstatement: If your license has been suspended, we guide you through the reinstatement process, including meeting DDS requirements.
- Helping Reduce Points: We help clients explore options to reduce points, including enrolling in defensive driving courses.
Importance of Addressing Traffic Violations Promptly
Taking action on traffic citations is essential to avoid escalating consequences:
- Preventing License Suspension: Proactively addressing tickets and keeping points off your record reduces the risk of suspension.
- Minimizing Financial Impact: Avoiding points can prevent insurance premium increases and reduce potential fines.
- Maintaining Driving Privileges: Protecting your driving record helps you maintain your freedom to drive without restrictions.
Why Choose 770GoodLaw for Traffic Violation Representation
Our commitment to Relentless Reliability and Sincetegrity ensures that we provide personalized, effective support for clients facing traffic violations and points-related penalties. At 770GoodLaw, we work diligently to:
- Navigate Georgia Traffic Laws: We have extensive knowledge of Georgia’s traffic laws and the DDS point system, ensuring a well-informed approach to your case.
- Develop Tailored Legal Strategies: Each case is unique, and we customize our approach to fit your specific needs, aiming for the best possible outcome.
- Provide Multilingual Support: We serve clients in both Korean and English, ensuring clear communication throughout the process.
