For many people, driving is an essential part of their daily lives. You might not be able to get to work, school, the grocery store or other places without the ability to drive – at least, not without it being a major inconvenience to find other modes of transportation.
Legally speaking, driving is a privilege, not a right. You can lose your driver’s license for severe traffic offenses, or for a certain number of offenses over time.
The points system
Illinois uses a points system to penalize drivers for moving violations. Rack up enough points within a certain time period, and you could face suspension or even revocation of your driver’s license.
Here are some common traffic offenses and their associated points. The higher the points, the more severe the offense.
- Reckless driving – 55 points
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury – 50 points
- Speeding more than 25 mph above the limit – 50 points
- Aggravated speeding in a school or construction zone – 55 points
- Illegally passing a school bus – 25 points
- Using a cellphone, tablet or other mobile device while driving – 20-30 points
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage – 25 points
- Texting while driving in a commercial vehicle – 20 points
Some of these violations – such as reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident – can result in more serious charges.
Don’t jeopardize your driving privileges
Many people unknowingly jeopardize their license by simply paying a fine or failing to get a lawyer for a traffic offense. It’s important to know that you can fight a traffic ticket. Even if the ticket is for a relatively minor offense, it’s worth protecting your driving record to avoid accumulating too many points down the road.