Speeding Tickets: North Carolina's Insurance Points System Explained

North Carolina has two separate point systems for traffic violations: DMV points (driver's license points) and insurance points. The number of points you receive depends on the violation you are convicted of. For example, speeding at 75 mph or higher when the limit is less than 70 mph can result in 4 insurance points, while speeding to avoid arrest can result in 10 insurance points. These points can lead to significant increases in insurance rates, so it is important to understand the system and consider consulting a lawyer to explore options for reducing the impact of a ticket.

The two types of points in North Carolina

North Carolina has two types of points for traffic tickets: DMV points (also known as driver's license points) and insurance points. Both types of points stay on your record for three years, and if you get additional tickets during that time, those points will be added to the total. The number of points you get depends on the violation you are convicted of (or plead guilty to).

DMV points are assigned to your driver's license when you are convicted of a traffic violation. These points can lead to the suspension of your license, especially if you have multiple suspensions on your record. DMV points can be checked on the North Carolina Department of Transportation website for a fee of $10.75 for an uncertified record or $15 for a certified record.

Insurance points are assigned when you are convicted of a traffic violation or are found to be at fault in an accident. These points are regulated by the North Carolina Department of Insurance and can lead to a substantial increase in your insurance rate. The North Carolina Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) was created to give drivers a financial incentive to practice safe driving habits by assigning insurance points based on convictions and at-fault accidents. Insurance points start affecting your rates the next time you renew or purchase insurance.

The Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP)

In North Carolina, traffic violations can result in two types of points under the point system: DMV points (on your driver's license) and insurance points. The North Carolina Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) was created to incentivize drivers financially to practice safe driving habits.

The SDIP is a point-based system that lowers rates for good drivers and increases rates for unsafe drivers. It is a state law that allows insurance companies to adjust your auto insurance premium based on your driving record. The SDIP system of surcharges and credits may apply if your company has elected to use the SDIP as its merit rating plan or if your insurance policy is written through the Massachusetts Automobile Insurance Plan (MAIP).

The SDIP points are charged for convictions and at-fault accidents occurring during the Experience Period (a three-year period preceding either the date an individual applies for coverage or the insurance company prepares to renew an existing policy). Drivers who accumulate points will see a substantial increase in their insurance rates. These points stay on your record for three years, and if you get additional convictions, those points will be added to the total.

In some cases, you might be able to get a speeding ticket reduced to a non-moving violation, which means no points would be assessed, and your insurance will not increase. A Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) is like pleading guilty but without receiving a conviction. With a PJC, the violation stays on your record, but no driver's license or insurance points are assessed unless the court takes further action.

How to reduce the effect of a ticket

In North Carolina, a speeding ticket can result in two types of points: DMV points (on your driver's license) and insurance points (which increase your insurance rate). The number of points you receive depends on the violation you are convicted of or plead guilty to. These points remain on your record for three years and increase if you receive additional convictions during that time.

Understand the consequences of a speeding ticket

Recognize the potential financial fallout from a speeding ticket. In North Carolina, insurance rates can increase by 30% to 80% following a speeding ticket, with even higher increases if you were speeding to elude arrest. Additionally, drivers with multiple speeding tickets or violations may have their licenses suspended.

Consult a lawyer

Consider hiring a lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and potentially reduce the severity of the ticket, the associated fine, and the number of points added to your insurance record. A lawyer can guide you through the options available, such as requesting a ticket reduction or pleading not guilty.

Improve your driving habits

After receiving a speeding ticket, focus on practicing safe driving habits and adhering to speed limits. Maintaining a clean driving record after the ticket will help prevent further increases in your insurance rates.

Shop around for insurance

Compare quotes from multiple insurers and consider insurance companies that cater to high-risk drivers. Look for applicable discounts and consider the minimum coverage required by the state to potentially lower your insurance costs.

Explore alternative insurance options

Consider usage-based insurance, which takes into account your current driving behaviours and mileage rather than solely relying on your past driving record. This option may provide more favourable rates if you have a history of speeding violations.

Remember, each situation is unique, and it's essential to understand the specific circumstances surrounding your speeding ticket. Consulting a legal professional can provide you with tailored advice and improve your chances of reducing the impact of the ticket on your insurance.

How to avoid points and increased insurance premiums

In North Carolina, a speeding ticket conviction can result in two types of points: DMV points (also known as driver's license points) and insurance points. These points can lead to negative consequences, such as increased insurance premiums and the potential revocation or suspension of your driver's license. However, there are strategies you can employ to avoid points and mitigate the impact on your insurance:

Understand the Point System and Seek Legal Advice:

Firstly, understand that the point systems in North Carolina are complex. Familiarize yourself with the two separate point systems: DMV points and insurance points. DMV points are issued by the North Carolina Department of Transportation/Division of Motor Vehicles (NC DMV) for convictions of moving violations. On the other hand, insurance points are assessed by your insurance company and are based on convictions and at-fault accidents. These insurance points can lead to substantial increases in your insurance rates. Given the complexity, consider seeking legal advice from experienced traffic ticket attorneys who can guide you through the process and help you navigate the potential consequences.

Contest the Ticket and Negotiate:

You have the option to contest the speeding ticket and plead not guilty. While doing this without legal counsel can be challenging, hiring a lawyer may improve your chances of a successful outcome. Negotiating traffic tickets and working to limit or eliminate points can be beneficial. In some cases, you may be able to get a speeding ticket reduced to a lower speed or a non-moving violation, which can help minimize the impact on your insurance and avoid points altogether.

Explore Driver Improvement Courses:

North Carolina allows qualified drivers with four points or more on their license to take a driver improvement course. By completing this course, you may receive a credit of three points, which can help improve your driving record and potentially lead to lower insurance premiums upon policy renewal.

Shop Around for Insurance:

If you receive a speeding ticket, your current insurance provider may increase your premiums. In such cases, it is worth shopping around and comparing quotes from other providers. Different insurance companies have varying rates, coverage offerings, and discounts. By exploring your options, you may find a provider that offers lower rates, even with a speeding ticket on your record.

Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC):

In some cases, a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) may be an option. A PJC is similar to pleading guilty but does not result in a conviction. While the violation stays on your record, no driver's license or insurance points are assessed unless the court takes further action, which is rare. However, there are restrictions and conditions for PJCs, and they are not applicable if you have certain serious traffic offenses or hold a Commercial Driver's License.

How to get a speeding ticket dismissed or reduced

In North Carolina, a speeding ticket can result in two types of points: DMV points (on your driver's license) and insurance points (which make your insurance rate increase). These points stay on your record for three years, and if you get additional tickets during that time, the points will be added to the total.

If you want to get a speeding ticket dismissed or reduced in North Carolina, here are some steps you can take:

Understand the charges against you

Carefully review the information on the ticket and ensure that all the details are accurate. The ticket will typically include information about the alleged speed, the location of the violation, and the date and time of the incident. Make sure that you were, in fact, the driver of the vehicle at the time of the violation.

Hire an attorney

While you are not required to hire an attorney, doing so can be extremely beneficial. An experienced attorney can help you build a strong case, provide legal advice, represent you in court, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. They can also help you negotiate a plea bargain for a reduced charge or fine.

Prepare your defense

Gather evidence to support your case, such as photographs of the location, weather conditions at the time of the incident, or any other relevant information. You can also write a statement outlining why you believe the ticket should be dismissed or reduced.

Request a hearing

Submit a request for a hearing before the court, and attend the hearing to plead your case. During the hearing, the court will evaluate whether your ticket qualifies for dismissal or a reduced charge. If the ticket is dismissed, you will not be required to pay the fine or incur any penalties. If the ticket is upheld, you will be required to pay the fine and may also be subject to additional penalties, such as points on your license.

Take a driving course

If you want to get your fine reduced, you can offer to take a driving course. This shows the court that you are taking steps to improve your driving and are less likely to speed in the future.

Plea for a reduction

If you have no prior offenses or were going less than 20 mph over the speed limit, you may be able to get your ticket reduced to a lesser offense. You can also request a reduced fine if you can afford to pay it and don't mind pleading guilty.

It's important to note that getting a speeding ticket dismissed or reduced is not a sure thing, and each case is decided on its own merits. However, with the right preparation and representation, you may be able to successfully contest your speeding ticket in North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions