If you’ve accumulated points on your driving record in Colorado Springs, you may be wondering if it’s possible to reduce them. In Colorado, the points system is a method used by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to track driving violations and promote safe driving. While points cannot be entirely “erased,” there are legal options to reduce or offset their impact. Understanding these strategies is key to keeping your driving privileges intact and avoiding increased insurance rates or license suspension.
At Baker Law Group, we provide experienced legal assistance for individuals facing traffic violations and other legal challenges in Colorado Springs. This blog outlines how the Colorado points system works and the steps you can take to address points on your driving record.
Understanding the Colorado Driver’s License Points System
Colorado’s points system assigns a specific number of points 
to various traffic violations. For example:
- Speeding 10-19 mph over the limit: 4 points
- Running a red light: 4 points
- Driving under the influence (DUI): 12 points
- Careless driving: 4 points
The number of points you can accumulate before facing a license suspension depends on your age:
- Under 18 years old: 6 points in 12 months or 7 points total
- 18-20 years old: 9 points in 12 months, 12 points in 24 months, or 14 points total
- 21 and older: 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months
If you exceed the point limit for your age group, your license may be suspended following a DMV hearing.
Can Points Be Removed from Your Record?
While points remain on your driving record, there are several methods to mitigate their impact or avoid future penalties.
1. Contesting the Ticket in Court
One of the most effective ways to address points is by fighting the underlying traffic violation in court. If the charge is dismissed, no points will be added to your record. A skilled attorney from Baker Law Group can evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and work to achieve the best possible outcome.
2. Plea Bargaining for a Lesser Offense
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a plea deal that reduces the severity of the traffic violation. For instance, a moving violation may be downgraded to a non-moving violation, which typically carries fewer or no points. An experienced Colorado Springs criminal lawyer can handle these negotiations on your behalf.
3. Completing a Defensive Driving Course
Colorado allows drivers to complete a DMV-approved defensive driving course to offset points. While the course does not directly remove points from your record, it may prevent points from causing a license suspension if taken proactively. Be sure to confirm with the DMV whether the course you choose qualifies for this purpose.
4. Waiting for Points to Expire
Points on your Colorado driving record do not stay forever. Most points expire after two years from the date of the violation. However, during this time, accumulating additional points can have serious consequences. Staying vigilant and avoiding future violations is crucial.
Why Reducing Points Matters
Accumulating points can lead to several consequences that extend beyond potential license suspension:
- Higher Insurance Rates: Many insurance companies increase premiums for drivers with points on their records, considering them high-risk.
- Impact on Employment: Jobs requiring a clean driving record, such as delivery or commercial driving roles, may be affected.
- Reputation and Convenience: Losing your license can disrupt your daily routine and reflect poorly on your responsibility as a driver.
Taking action to address points promptly can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
How a Colorado Springs Criminal Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the Colorado DMV points system can be complicated. The legal process for contesting traffic violations, negotiating plea deals, or even attending a DMV hearing often requires in-depth legal knowledge and preparation. A criminal lawyer experienced in handling traffic cases in Colorado Springs can provide invaluable assistance in these situations.
Here’s how Baker Law Group can support you:
- Analyzing Your Case: We review the circumstances of your traffic violation to identify potential defenses or errors in the ticketing process.
- Representing You in Court: Whether it’s a traffic ticket or a more serious offense, we represent you with professionalism and determination.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: When appropriate, we aim to reduce the severity of charges or minimize their impact on your record.
- Guiding You Through DMV Hearings: If your license is at risk of suspension, we help you present your case effectively to the DMV.
Preventing Points in the Future
The best way to avoid the hassle of managing points is to adopt safe driving practices. Follow these tips to stay out of trouble on Colorado roads:
- Observe speed limits and road signs.
- Avoid distractions, such as texting while driving.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Stay alert to changing road conditions, especially during Colorado’s unpredictable weather.
By prioritizing safety, you reduce the likelihood of accumulating points and ensure a better driving record.
Contact a Colorado Springs Criminal Lawyer
If you’re facing traffic violations or concerned about points on your driving record, Baker Law Group is here to help. Our team of experienced Colorado Springs criminal lawyers is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your case.
