Illinois traffic laws are designed to minimize offenses and protect the general public. In the interest of safety, Illinois employs a severe series of penalties for drivers with repeated traffic offenses. In certain cases, multiple traffic tickets can lead to suspension or even revocation of driving privileges.
Every time a person receives a ticket for a traffic offense in Illinois, a certain number of points can be applied to that person’s license. This system applies whether the person committed a minor violation such as driving slightly above the speed limit, or a major violation such as illegal passing of a school bus or speeding in a construction zone.
Number of Traffic Tickets Required for License Suspension or Revocation
Driver’s license suspensions and revocations are governed under Title 92 of the Illinois Administrative Code. Chapter II of Title 92 has the code regarding the Illinois Secretary of State. Under Illinois Administrative Code, Title 92, Chapter 2, Section 1040.30, a person who racks up three traffic ticket convictions in 12 months will have his or her driver’s license suspended. The same penalties can apply to a person under 21 who has two convictions for traffic offenses in the past 24 months.
In certain cases, a single traffic violation can result in automatic license suspension. For example, if a person violates the traffic code by illegally passing a school bus, that person’s license may be suspended or revoked.
Point Breakdown for License Suspension or Revocation
As detailed in Illinois Section 1040.30, Illinois employs a point system to determine the length of suspension or even revocation for traffic offenses. The point total needed for suspension or revocation changes based on the driver’s past offenses.
For a driver without any license suspensions or revocations in the past seven years, the Illinois penalties are as follows:
- Point totals 0 through 14 result in no penalty;
- Point totals 15 through 44 result in a two-month suspension;
- Point totals 45 through 74 result in a three-month suspension;
- Point totals 75 through 89 result in a six-month suspension;
- Point totals 90 through 99 result in a nine-month suspension;
- Point totals 100 through 109 result in a one-year suspension; and
- Point totals 110 and beyond result in revocation of driving privileges.
For a driver with one license suspension or revocation in the past seven years, the Illinois penalties are as follows:
- Point totals 0 through 14 result in no penalty;
- Point totals 15 through 44 result in a four-month suspension;
- Point totals 45 through 74 result in a six-month suspension;
- Point totals 75 through 109 result in a one-year suspension; and
- Point totals 110 and beyond result in revocation of driving privileges.
Given the increase in penalty, it is important for drivers to pay attention to their driving record and consult with an attorney even for the simplest traffic ticket. Keep in mind that Court Supervision is a finding of guilty that does not assign points to a person’s driving record. Only a conviction will assign points to a driver’s record. Many drivers accumulate convictions unbeknownst to them by paying traffic tickets through the mail rather than going to court. Individuals are allowed two findings of Court Supervision per 12 months. Only after the two are used up will they receive a conviction, unless the violation was particularly egregious. Court Supervision allows drivers to plead guilty without increased insurance rates or points assigned to their record, so it drivers should take advantage of this disposition anytime it is available.
Do You Need Legal Counsel from a Skilled Illinois Traffic Lawyer?
If you are dealing with traffic offenses in Illinois, it is imperative to take immediate action. As points accumulate on your driver’s license, the risk of suspension or revocation increases dramatically. In such situations, it can be beneficial to retain the services of a skilled Illinois traffic lawyer.
Based in Illinois, Sami Azhari has the skill and experience needed to handle traffic offenses of all shapes and varieties. If you need legal counsel, contact Sami Azhari at your earliest convenience to start planning your defense.
