New York state is cracking down on bad drivers. It is expanding the license points system to include more violations. The number of points you can rack up before losing your license will drop. And to top everything off, points will stay on your record longer. NY says the stricter system will keep roads safer. Experts point out the state also stands to make a ton of money.
Penalties get harsher across the board
Many violations that once meant a simple ticket now add points. An equipment violation, such as a dead lightbulb, will earn you a point. An illegal U-turn will land you two points. Obstructing traffic will get you two points. Failure to move over for emergency vehicles now carries a three-point penalty.
Existing points violations also carry heavier penalties. Speeding up to 10 miles over the limit was three points; now it’s four. Using a cellphone while driving was five points; now it’s six. Failure to yield to a pedestrian was three points; now it’s six. Reckless driving was five points, but the catch-all charge now lands you eight points. A single conviction for speeding and reckless driving could trigger an immediate suspension.
The big headline: five or more convictions for alcohol- or drug-related offenses now mean a lifetime ban from holding a driver’s license…