How Many Points is a Speeding Ticket in New Mexico?
Speeding tickets can be a significant inconvenience, not just because of the fines, but also because they can impact your driving record and insurance premiums. In New Mexico, understanding how many points a speeding ticket will add to your license is crucial for managing the consequences. This article delves into the details of how many points a speeding ticket in New Mexico can add to your driving record and what you can do to mitigate the impact.
New Mexico’s Point System
New Mexico operates under a point system for traffic violations, which is used to assess the severity of infractions and determine whether a driver’s license should be suspended or revoked. The point system assigns a certain number of points to various traffic violations, including speeding. For speeding violations, the number of points depends on how much over the speed limit you were driving.
Points for Speeding Violations
In New Mexico, the number of points you receive for a speeding ticket is based on the degree of excess speed. If you are caught driving 1 to 14 miles per hour over the speed limit, you will receive 2 points. For speeds between 15 and 29 miles per hour over the limit, the penalty is 4 points. If you exceed the speed limit by 30 miles per hour or more, you will face a 6-point penalty.
Consequences of Accumulating Points
Accumulating points on your driving record can lead to several consequences. If you accumulate 12 points within a 12-month period, the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) may suspend your driver’s license. Accumulating 18 points within a 24-month period can result in a 30-day suspension, and 24 points within a 36-month period can lead to a 90-day suspension.
Insurance Premiums
In addition to the legal penalties, speeding tickets can also significantly impact your insurance premiums. Insurance companies use your driving record to determine the risk associated with insuring you. A speeding ticket can lead to higher premiums, and repeated offenses can result in increased rates or even the cancellation of your policy.
What to Do if You Receive a Speeding Ticket
If you receive a speeding ticket in New Mexico, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the impact:
1. Review the Ticket: Make sure the ticket accurately reflects the violation and the speed you were clocked at.
2. Consult with an Attorney: An attorney can help you understand your options and may be able to negotiate a reduced fine or point reduction.
3. Attend Traffic School: Some speeding tickets can be dismissed or the points reduced if you complete a traffic school program.
4. Consider Paying the Fine: If the points are minor, paying the fine may be the simplest solution, although it will still appear on your driving record.
Conclusion
Understanding how many points a speeding ticket in New Mexico can add to your driving record is essential for making informed decisions about your traffic violations. By knowing the potential consequences and taking appropriate actions, you can work to minimize the impact on your driving privileges and insurance costs.
