Getting your California license suspended is no picnic. Not only is it a major inconvenience but if you are not careful, your license may even get revoked sooner or later. Most of the reasons why driving privileges are suspended arise from violations of specific driving regulations. Commission of drunk-driving offenses is certainly one of these. However, there are also cases when your license may be suspended due to violation of certain State laws. It pays to be sufficiently aware of these circumstances and to solicit legal guidance as soon as any threat to your driving privileges may occur.
First off, the so-called “excessive moving violations” is one of the more popular causes for you to have your California license suspended. Note that in the state of California, it observes what is known as a point system. What is this all about? With the point system, drivers accumulate points on their license for every moving violation they commit. This is how it works: in the event that you accumulate 4 points within a span of just one year; 6 points in two years; or 8 points in 3 years, your license will be suspended. If you committed even more number of points, then you will be placed on driving probation for a year and there is a great chance that your license may be revoked.
The next is of course, the more familiar DUI violations. Whether it’s drugs or alcohol, once you are arrested for driving under the influence, the arresting officer will suspend your license immediately. He will then send the suspension and report to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicle) who will either uphold the suspension or dismiss the same depending on the offender’s defense. This is why it is imperative that the moment you are arrested for DUI, you have to schedule an administrative hearing with the DMV within 10 days from the time of such arrest. Otherwise, the DMV will base its decision on just the report of the arresting officer and will most likely uphold your suspension.
There are still number of other causes that may give rise to the suspension of one’s driving privileges in the state. One is when you fall under the Negligent Operator Treatment System Program or NOTS. Essentially, this program is based “on a series of negligent operator points which are added to your driving license over a specific period of time.” Some more causes include:
- Refusal to take a mandatory alcohol or drug test or it qualifies as a failed test.
- Driving an uninsured vehicle.
- Driving without a license or a suspended license or an expired restricted license.
- Non-driving violations such as failing to pay traffic tickets or other fines.
If you encounter any of these situations, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately. You cannot afford to remain complacent because it could mean the complete loss of your driving privileges.
