Like all states, Florida has a point system when it comes to traffic violations. Moving violations and most
criminal traffic offense will result in points on your license should you be convicted (adjudicated) of the offense.
Violation
Points
6 Points
Unlawful speed resulting in an accident
6 Points
4 Points
Any moving violation resulting in an accident
4 Points
Passing a stopped school bus
4 Points
Driving During Restricted Hours
3 Points
Unlawful speed - 16 MPH or more over lawful or posted speed
4 Points
Unlawful speed - 15 MPH or less over lawful or posted speed
3 Points
All other moving violations
3 Points
Violation of curfew
3 Points
Open container as an operator
3 Points
Child restraint violation
3 Points
The
DHSMV (Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) considers driving to be a privilege, not a right. That is why they will take your driving privilege away from you if you accumulate too many points.
DWLS as a first offense is a 2nd degree
misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail. DWLS as a second or subsequent offense is a 1st degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail.
Driving while an HTO is a 3rd degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison.
Many people incur driver's license suspensions due to excessive points.
You will have your license suspended for 30 days if you accumulate 12 points or more in a year on your current driving record. If you have 18 points accumulated in 18 months, the suspension will be for 90 days. For 24 points earned within three years, you will have a 12 month suspension. A notice of scheduled suspension will be mailed to you. You may be imprisoned for driving with a suspended license.
If you are charged with DWLS or driving while an HTO, you may want to contact a criminal lawyer. Driver's license suspensions may not seem like a big deal, but convictions can result in permanent criminal records, fines, and jail or even prison time.
If you have been charged with a DWLS or HTO offense in Miami-Dade or Broward,
call me to discuss your case.