When motorists are stopped by the police for speeding or other traffic violations, they may feel very anxious. Most drivers hope to receive just a “warning” to avoid the dreaded high-priced ticket police officers deal out to many reckless drivers. Despite the immediate relief of a warning, there can be serious consequences for frequent warnings or traffic tickets that extend past a one-time fee. Illinois drivers should be aware of the state's driver’s license point system and how it might affect their driving records.

What Does a “Point System” Mean?

Like many other states, Illinois has a point system that exists for traffic violations. These points act as a record of the number and severity of violations held by each driver. A person’s driver’s license acts as a record card for police officers to view their driving history. Every infraction results in added points to a person's grand total. According to Illinois law, three or more offenses within a 12-month period will result in the suspension or revocation of a person's driver's license, and offenses with a higher number of points may result in more severe penalties.

If you get pulled over for reckless driving, you may get more than a ticket. You could be taken into custody, which could mean your vehicle will be impounded. You may also have to post bail or stay in jail until it is time to appear before a judge. Altogether, it can be a costly criminal charge.

What is Reckless Driving?

According to Illinois law, the following scenarios can result in a reckless driving charge:

A sizable percentage of drivers have been charged with a traffic violation at one time or another, whether due to speeding, a tail light being out, an expired license plate, or another offense. Some offenses are more serious than others, but they all can end up costing drivers money. So what happens if you get a ticket and you do not have the money to pay?

In 1983, the U.S. Supreme Court made it illegal for judges to send defendants to jail if they are unable to pay their court fines. However, it is still legal for them to send people to jail if they are unwilling to pay their fines. This is a distinction that, left in the hands of judges, ends up landing many lower income citizens behind bars, when in reality, they may not have the funds to cover their fines.

If you have had your driver’s license suspended, then you are undoubtedly counting the days until you can get it back. The inconvenience of living without a driver’s license can make every day more stressful. Tasks that were once simple, like driving to work or making a quick trip to the grocery store, are now an issue. You may have to take public transportation, if it is even available, or ask friends and family to drive you. No matter what your solution is for getting around, it can be not only an inconvenience but also embarrassing to have to ask for help and repeatedly explain the reason for your lost license. 

Suspended License in Illinois

There are many reasons a driver’s license may be suspended in Illinois, and drunk driving tops that list. Other reasons include being caught driving without insurance, not paying child support and numerous traffic violations. 

A society cannot thrive in safety without rules and regulations. When it comes to traffic laws, they exist for the sole purpose of keeping drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and all other people safe. The violation of traffic laws can lead to extremely dangerous situations, but when someone violates them while in a construction zone, it increases the potential danger.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 6,741 work zone crashes nationwide in 2016. During those accidents, 765 people were killed and 1,893 injured. Illinois has some of the most strict construction zone traffic laws in the country, so it is important you understand what to do and not do. Here are a few things you need to know about Illinois construction zone traffic tickets: