There were an estimated 33,654 traffic fatalities in the U.S. during 2018. New Jersey has 564 deaths along its roadways that same year. In efforts to reverse this trend, agencies across the state have increased the enforcement of traffic laws. The majority of cases in Salem County are heard in the eight Municipal Court venues.
|
Salem County 07/2018 – 06/2019 |
Cases Added |
|
DWI |
269 |
|
Traffic |
24,371 |
|
Parking |
745 |
Financial Penalties for Violations
Most traffic violations are subject to a minimum fine. For example, a conviction for excessive speed may result in fines that exceed $100. Many courts will allow for fines to be paid in installments. Some courts may consider reducing fines in exchange for completing community service work.
Driving Record Penalty Points
Most violations of traffic law will result in penalty points being added to your driving record. For example, a motorist that fails to yield to a pedestrian will be assessed two points and racing on highways results in five points. A license suspension is automatically imposed for the accumulation of 12 points.
New Jersey Surcharge Violation System (NJSVS)
If a driver accumulates six points in three years they must pay a $150 yearly surcharge. This surcharge increases by $25 for each subsequent point added. Many severe infractions also result in surcharges. Some examples include $250 per year for driving with a suspended license or $1,000 for a DWI conviction.
Increase in Auto Insurance Premiums
Insurance.com has a calculator that estimates how certain traffic violations result in increased car insurance rates. A reckless driving conviction in New Jersey may result in an average premium increase of 61%. Based on how excessive a speeding offense is, drivers see their premiums increase by 17% to 32%
Distracted” Driving”
Over the last decade, widespread usage of handheld devices, on-board technology, and other distractions are creating dangerous roadways. An estimated 3,000 fatalities and nearly 400,000 injuries in the U.S. are now attributed to distractions each year. First-time offenders in New Jersey now may be fined $200.
Failing to Pay Fines
Individuals that do not pay their court-ordered fines and fees may have a warrant issued for their arrest and have their driver's license suspended. Courts generally allow defendants to make monthly installments toward the full amount. In some cases, they also may allow defendants to perform community service instead of paying the full amount.
Importance of Retaining an Experienced Defense Lawyer
The local courts across New Jersey are often overwhelmed with a high volume of traffic cases that they attempt to resolve quickly using a limited staff. This may result in a haphazard pace with the individual rights of alleged violators not being properly considered. Retaining an attorney that is familiar with this area of practice will better ensure that your right to due process is protected.
Also, your attorney may evaluate the evidence to detect weaknesses or inconsistencies. He or she may participate in negotiations that result in a reduction of the charges on your behalf.
Effective Representation for Traffic Offenses in New Jersey
Many traffic violations can have consequences including license suspension, significant fines, increased insurance rates, and more. Joseph D. Lento is a lawyer that has many years of experience advocating for motorists in these cases. Contact his office today at (888) 535-3686 for assistance.
