Driving on a suspended license is a serious matter. In Florida, a number of actions can lead to a driver license suspension.
Understanding these reasons can help drivers avoid losing their driving privileges.
1. Accumulating points on your license
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles uses a point system to track driving violations. Different violations carry different point values. For example, speeding can add three to four points, while reckless driving adds four points. If a driver accumulates 12 points within 12 months, the court can suspend the license for 30 days. Accumulating 18 points within 18 months results in a three-month suspension, and 24 points within 36 months leads to a one-year suspension.
2. Driving under the influence
A DUI conviction results in an automatic license suspension. The first offense can lead to a suspension of up to one year. Subsequent offenses carry longer suspension periods. Refusing to take a breath, blood or urine test when suspected of DUI also results in a one-year suspension for the first refusal and 18 months for subsequent refusals.
3. Failure to pay fines or appear in court
Unpaid traffic tickets or failure to appear in court for traffic violations can result in a suspended license. The FLHSMV enforces this to ensure compliance with traffic laws and court orders. Paying fines or attending court can reinstate the license, but ignoring these obligations leads to suspension.
4. Driving without insurance
Florida law requires all drivers to maintain minimum auto insurance coverage. If a driver fails to provide proof of insurance, the FLHSMV can suspend the license until the driver submits the necessary proof and pays reinstatement fees. The suspension ensures that all drivers on the road can cover damages in case of an accident.
5. Failing to pay child support
The FLHSMV can suspend a driver license for failing to pay court-ordered child support. This measure encourages parents to meet their financial obligations. Once the driver pays the overdue amount or establishes a payment plan, they can reinstate the license.
6. Habitual traffic offender status
A driver becomes an HTO by accumulating three major offenses or 15 minor offenses within five years. Major offenses include DUI, driving with a suspended license and vehicular manslaughter. The HTO designation leads to a five-year license revocation.
Avoiding these actions and understanding the consequences of traffic violations can help Florida drivers keep their licenses valid and avoid the inconvenience of suspension. It is also a good idea to check your status so you are not caught unaware of the problem. You may need legal assistance to fight a charge of driving while your license is suspended.