The bustling streets of Illinois, from the urban sprawl of Chicago to the quieter roads of its suburbs, see countless vehicles every day. With so many drivers, traffic violations are, unfortunately, a common occurrence.
While a singular offense might seem like a small hiccup in your driving record, accumulating repeated traffic offenses can lead to severe consequences.
Points on your driving record
In Illinois, traffic violations come with points added to your driving record. The severity of the offense determines the number of points. For instance, exceeding the speed limit by 15 mph might result in fewer points than reckless driving. As you accumulate points, the risk of losing your driving privileges increases.
Suspension of your driving privileges
If you accrue a certain number of points within a set timeframe, you may face a suspension of your driving privileges. The duration of the suspension can vary based on the number of points and the specific offenses. For younger drivers, under the age of 21, the thresholds are lower, meaning they can face suspensions after fewer offenses compared to older drivers.
Revocation of your driver’s license
More severe or repeated offenses might lead to the revocation of your driver’s license. This action is more severe than a suspension, as it invalidates your license entirely. To regain your driving privileges after a revocation, you must undergo a thorough review process and meet specific criteria set by the state.
Increased insurance premiums
Insurers view drivers with multiple violations as high risk, and this perception can result in significantly higher insurance costs. Over time, these increased rates can add a substantial financial burden.
Driver education
Illinois places a strong emphasis on driver education, especially for those who find themselves with repeat offenses. In some cases, you must complete a defensive driving course or other educational programs to regain or maintain your driving privileges.
While a single traffic violation might seem inconsequential, multiple offenses in Illinois carry significant penalties.
