Penalties for Driving with Suspended License in New Jersey
If you commit a serious traffic infraction, or if you are ticketed too many times for minor traffic violations, it’s possible that your NJ driver’s license could be suspended. When this happens, you will be prohibited from driving until the suspension period ends and your license is restored. Moreover, since New Jersey does not offer work licenses or hardship licenses, you could find it very difficult to get to and from work every day, which could seriously affect your ability to earn a living. The reality is that many people with suspended or revoked licenses feel that they have no choice but to continue driving. The problem with this is that Driving While Suspended is a very serious offense and could result in severe penalties.
Whether your license is suspended due to accruing too many points on your license, a DWI conviction, or failure to appear in court for an unrelated matter, you will not be allowed to operate a motor vehicle anywhere in New Jersey. If you are caught driving with a suspended license, you will face additional punishments that could make things much more difficult for you going forward.
Penalties for Driving While Suspended in New Jersey
The penalties for Driving While Suspended vary, depending on the number of prior offenses. For a first offense, the penalties include a $500 fine, annual Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) surcharges, and an additional six months tacked onto the license suspension. A second offense includes fines, MVC surcharges, an extended license suspension period, and possible jail time.
The consequences of a conviction for Driving While Suspended go beyond court-imposed sanctions. That’s because auto insurance companies take notice when a motorist incurs points for driving with a revoked or suspended license. Depending on the circumstances, it’s possible that your insurance provider will significantly increase your rates or even cancel your coverage altogether. As a result, you could find that you are effectively prohibited from driving in NJ even after your license is restored.
If you have been ticketed for Driving While Suspended, or for any other traffic offense, in New Jersey, you need to talk to a qualified traffic defense lawyer. Jill R. Cohen, Esq., is an experienced, aggressive criminal and traffic defense attorney who will help you fight your ticket. Contact The Law Offices of Jill R. Cohen now to schedule a free consultation about your case.
