Points on Your Driver’s License Can Have Serious Consequences
Reckless or careless driving doesn’t just put others at risk — it can also have lasting consequences for your driving record and your future. Texas uses a driver’s license points system to discourage dangerous behavior like speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving. While a few points may not seem like much at first, they can add up quickly — and lead to costly penalties, higher insurance rates, and even license suspension.
If you’ve been in an accident caused by a careless driver in El Paso, it’s important to understand how these points work and how they might affect your personal injury claim.
Understanding the Driver’s License Points System
The driver’s license points system is designed to hold drivers accountable for unsafe actions and to help reduce preventable accidents on Texas roads. When you commit a traffic violation, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) assigns points to your driving record. The more serious or repeated the offense, the more points you’ll receive.
For example, speeding, ignoring traffic lights, or causing a crash can each add points to your record. Too many points within a certain time frame can lead to the suspension or revocation of your license.
Common Traffic Violations That Lead to Points
Different violations carry different penalties. Here’s a general breakdown of how points are added for various traffic offenses:
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Minor moving violations: 2 points
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Moving violations resulting in a crash: 3 points
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Speeding or reckless driving: 2–3 points
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Failing to stop for a school bus: 3 points
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Driving under the influence (DUI): Immediate license suspension and potential criminal charges
Points remain on your record for three years from the date of the conviction. The more you accumulate, the more likely you are to face serious consequences — including a suspended license.
How License Points Affect You
The impact of license points goes beyond losing driving privileges. They can also:
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Increase your car insurance premiums: Insurance companies often raise rates after seeing points or traffic violations on your record.
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Affect job opportunities: Certain employers check driving records, especially for jobs involving transportation or delivery.
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Hurt your credibility in an accident claim: If you’re injured in a crash and have a history of reckless driving, the at-fault driver’s insurance company might try to use it against you to reduce your compensation.
That’s why it’s crucial to handle any traffic citations properly — and to have an experienced attorney on your side if you’ve been injured in a collision.
Can License Points Affect Your Car Accident Case?
Yes. Points on your driver’s license can sometimes be used by insurance companies to question your driving habits and credibility. Even if the other driver was 100% at fault, insurers may attempt to use your driving record as leverage to lower or deny your settlement.
For example, if you were previously cited for speeding and later got hit by a distracted driver, the insurance company may argue that your prior record shows a pattern of risky behavior — even if it had nothing to do with the crash that caused your injuries.
A skilled El Paso car accident attorney can help protect your rights and ensure your past record isn’t unfairly used against you.
Can You Remove Points From Your License?
In some cases, you may be able to take a state-approved driver safety course to prevent points from being added to your record. However, you must request permission before paying your citation or attending the class. Completing the course can help reduce penalties and keep your insurance premiums from rising.
It’s worth noting that this option may not be available for every driver or every type of violation. Serious offenses like DUIs, hit-and-run accidents, or driving without insurance typically result in automatic suspension and cannot be resolved through a defensive driving course.
Why Legal Help Matters After a Car Accident
When you’re recovering from an auto accident, the last thing you need is an insurance company using your driving history to minimize your claim. At Applebaum Accident Group, we’ve seen firsthand how insurers twist the facts to avoid paying fair compensation. Our El Paso car accident attorneys know how to counter these tactics and build a strong case on your behalf.
We help clients recover compensation for:
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Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
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Lost income and reduced earning potential
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Pain and suffering
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Vehicle repairs or replacement
Our team investigates every detail of your crash, collects supporting evidence, and negotiates aggressively with insurance companies to protect your rights.
Contact Applebaum Accident Group Today
If you were hurt in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t let license points or your driving record prevent you from getting the justice you deserve. The legal team at Applebaum Accident Group is here to help you every step of the way.
We proudly serve El Paso and surrounding communities and are dedicated to helping injured Texans rebuild their lives after serious accidents.
Call us today for a
, no-obligation consultation.
📞 (855-Call-Paul)
Or visit us online to schedule your case evaluation.
Applebaum Accident Group — Fighting for the justice El Paso drivers deserve.
