Every state has a traffic system that assigns points, or demerits, to different types of traffic offenses. This system is used by the state’s motor vehicle department to keep track of and record the driving habits of all licensed drivers within the state. It is typically based on some type of point value.<\/p>\n
Point values are based on the seriousness of the offense. More serious traffic violations have a higher point value and minor offenses are assigned lower points. As an example, a traffic offense such as failure to come to a complete stop at a stop sign (a rolling stop) may carry a value of two points, whereas driving thirty miles per hour over the posted speed limit (reckless driving) may carry a value of four points. This is just an example as point systems vary from state-to-state. Repercussions can occur if a driver accumulates a certain number of points within a certain time period. In addition to DMV having access to this information, insurance companies also have the ability to review this information.<\/p>\n