A New York driver who receives a default conviction for traffic infractions or even a conviction after an attempted defense against an alleged traffic violation may face a range of penalties. The state of New York has many programs and processes in place to monitor a driver’s activities and records. One of these is the assessment of points on records. Another is the Driver Responsibility Assessment Program.
Let’s take a look at how this program works. Drivers can be required to pay fines to the Department of Motor Vehicle if even one of the following situations occurs:
- Six or more points are received by a single driver over the course of 18 months.
- A driver refuses to participate in a chemical test for blood alcohol level.
- A driver is convicted of any drugged or drunk driving offense.
The fines are typically due on an annual basis but the DMV does conduct quarterly reviews of each driver’s record. Any new violations could result in new fines being assessed. If a driver opts to not pay a fine required by this program, the DMV could suspend that driver’s license. Payment of the fine may reinstate driving privileges.
A driver may take a certain type of traffic course that can sometimes help to reduce insurance premiums. Taking such a course, however, cannot reduce or eliminate fees associated with the Driver Responsibility Assessment Program. Understanding how this program works can be important for any driver in New York, especially if a traffic ticket or other violation has been received.
For more information, visit our website page on the New York Driver Responsibility Assessment Program.