The 2019 New Jersey Highway Safety Program included significant resources for the statewide enforcement of traffic laws. Some of the key safety concerns include impaired driving, preventing pedestrian and bicycle accidents, enforcement of distracted driving laws, and more. The majority of drivers that are cited for traffic violations will be summoned to one of the 15 Municipal Courts throughout Cape May County.
|
Cape May County 07/2018 – 06/2019 |
Cases Added |
|
DWI |
701 |
|
Traffic |
28,040 |
|
Parking |
35,481 |
Fines Imposed for Violations
The majority of violations are subject to a minimum fine. For example, an unsafe driving conviction will result in a fine of between $50 and $150 for a first offense. Courts may allow for payment arrangement plans or possibly reduce fines in exchange for completing community service work.
Driving Record Penalty Points
Most traffic violations will result in penalty points that are added to driving records. For example, failing to yield to a pedestrian will result in two points and racing on highways results in five points. A license suspension is imposed for accumulating 12 points.
New Jersey Surcharge Violation System (NJSVS)
Drivers that accumulate six points in three years must pay a $150 annual surcharge. The surcharge increases by $25 for each additional point added. Some serious infractions also result in surcharges. For example, $250 per year for driving with a suspended license and $1,000 annually for a DWI conviction
How Traffic Violations Impact Auto Insurance Premiums
A calculator on Insurance.com illustrates how certain traffic violations result in increased car insurance rates. A conviction for reckless driving in New Jersey will result in an average premium increase of 61%. Depending on the excessiveness of a speeding offense, drivers can expect an increase from 17% to 32%
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Operating a vehicle while intoxicated is a serious offense. The penalties are influenced by the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and other factors. The following is a summary of laws for first-time offenders:
- Drivers with a BAC from 08 to .10% will have their driver's license suspended for 30 days and a maximum of $400 fine imposed. An ignition interlock device (IID) may be required on the vehicle for a maximum of six months. All offenders must participate in an Intoxicated Drivers Resource Center program or similar alcohol safety classes.
- When the BAC ranges from .10 to .15% or involves driving under the influence of drugs, a 45-day license suspension and a maximum $500 fine may be imposed. IID installation may be required for up to one year.
- When the BAC exceeds .15%, an automatic 90-day driver's license suspension applies and up to a $500 fine is imposed. The driver may be required to maintain an IID for up to 18 months.
Importance of Retaining Experienced Representation
Having assistance from a seasoned traffic attorney can have many benefits. When involving relatively minor violations, this is important to prevent accumulating fines, points, surcharges and a potential loss of driving privileges. Those facing more serious traffic offenses such as DWI or operating without insurance should retain aggressive counsel immediately. These charges may result in jail time and can significantly harm your current or future employment.
New Jersey Lawyer for Traffic Violations
Have you been cited for a traffic offense? Joseph D. Lento is a defense attorney that is well-versed in this area of legal practice. He will work diligently to minimize fines and other penalties and keep you on the road. Contact the </contact-us" data-gc-link="/contact-us">office for assistance at (888) 535-3686 today.
