If you live in upstate New York or anywhere in the Hudson Valley, you know how important your vehicle is. Unlike residents in some parts of the state, you may depend on your vehicle to get to work, transport the kids to their obligations, and take care of daily errands and responsibilities. Trying to imagine a day without your vehicle may fill you with stress as you wonder how you will ever accomplish the things you need to do.
However, if the state of New York suspends or revokes your driver’s license, you may be dealing with this scenario for considerably longer than one day. Losing your driving privileges usually means you have acted in some way that authorities consider a risk. It is important that you understand how easy it is to find yourself in such a situation and the options you have for resolving the matter and getting back on the road.
How to lose your license
There are essentially two ways to lose your driver’s license: either with an accumulation of small offenses or through one major violation. Small offenses accumulate on your record through the point system. Common infractions, such as running red lights, speeding, tailgating or texting while driving, carry certain points depending on their severity. For example, speeding may result in three points on your record unless you were going significantly higher than the speed limit, which may result in four, six or even more points.
If you accumulate 11 points within an 18-month period, the state may suspend your license. However, there are faster ways to lose your license. Those actions that may result in the automatic suspension of your license include:
- Driving without insurance
- Driving while your license is already under suspension
- Driving while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Refusing to submit to a blood alcohol test upon your arrest under suspicion of drunk driving
- Inciting a police chase
- Repeating certain offenses such as speeding or passing a school bus
Each circumstance is unique, and you may qualify for a restricted license that will allow you to drive only to your job and home while you are under suspension. The restoration of your license at the end of your suspension is not automatic. You may have to go through a complicated process of applying for reinstatement and follow specific steps. Many in New York who want to avoid further complications seek the advice of an attorney who is knowledgeable regarding state traffic offenses and the necessary steps for license reinstatement.