Traffic violations not only put your safety at risk but can also lead to penalty points on your U.S driving record. Accumulating too many points can result in higher insurance premiums, fines, license suspension, or even revocation.

Understanding the most common traffic violations and how to avoid them can help you maintain a clean record and keep your driving privileges intact.

Read more: How to Contest a Traffic Ticket in the U.S (Legally and Effectively)?

Top 10 Traffic Violations That Add Penalty Points to Your U.S Driving License
Penalty points for driving offences

1. Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common moving violations. The number of points assigned for speeding depends on how fast you were going over the limit.

• Example: In New York, going 1-10 mph over the limit adds 3 points, while exceeding the limit by 40 mph or more adds 11 points, which could result in license suspension.

• How to Avoid It: Use cruise control on highways, pay attention to speed limit signs, and slow down in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.

Did You Know? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding contributed to 29% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. in 2021, resulting in over 11,000 deaths.

2. Running a Red Light or Stop Sign

Disregarding traffic signals is a serious offense that can cause accidents and add significant points to your record.

• Example: In Florida, running a red light adds 4 points to your license.

• How to Avoid It: Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and obey traffic signals. If the light turns yellow, slow down instead of speeding through the intersection.

Fact Box: Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicate that red-light running causes more than 800 deaths and 137,000 injuries annually in the U.S.

3. Reckless Driving

Reckless driving includes aggressive behaviors like excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, or tailgating. Many states impose harsh penalties for reckless driving.

• Example: In Virginia, reckless driving is a misdemeanor that adds 6 points and can lead to a suspended license.

• How to Avoid It: Drive defensively, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid aggressive maneuvers.

Legal Consequence: In some states, reckless driving is considered a criminal offense, potentially leading to jail time in addition to penalties.

Read more: How Penalty Points on Your U.S License Affect Driving Record: A State-by-State Guide

4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DWI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most severe violations and results in heavy penalties.

• Example: A DUI conviction in California adds 2 points and can lead to fines, license suspension, and mandatory driving courses.

• How to Avoid It: Never drink and drive. Use a designated driver, rideshare service, or public transportation if you plan to consume alcohol.

Shocking Statistic: According to the CDC, one person dies every 45 minutes in alcohol-impaired crashes in the U.S., totaling over 11,000 deaths annually.

5. Failure to Yield Right of Way

Failure to yield when required can cause dangerous collisions, especially at intersections or pedestrian crossings.

• Example: In Texas, failing to yield adds 3 points to your driving record.

• How to Avoid It: Pay attention to right-of-way rules and be extra cautious when merging or making turns.

Risk Factor: In 2021, failure-to-yield violations caused 3,500+ fatal crashes in the U.S., per NHTSA data.

6. Distracted Driving (Texting While Driving)

Texting, using a phone, or engaging in other distractions while driving can lead to accidents and penalties.

• Example: In Georgia, a distracted driving offense adds 1 point for the first violation, with higher penalties for repeat offenses.

• How to Avoid It: Use hands-free devices, set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode, and keep your focus on the road.

Did You Know? The NHTSA reports that distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021, with texting being one of the biggest contributors.

Read more: How to Check Vehicle Tickets and Fines in the U.S for 2025

7. Improper Lane Changes

Changing lanes without signaling or cutting off other drivers can be dangerous and result in traffic violations.

• Example: In Michigan, improper lane changes add 2 points to your license.

• How to Avoid It: Always use your turn signals, check blind spots, and follow proper lane-changing procedures.

Safety Tip: More than 200,000 lane-change crashes occur annually in the U.S. due to improper maneuvers.

8. Tailgating (Following Too Closely)

Following too closely increases the risk of rear-end collisions and is considered a moving violation.

• Example: In New Jersey, tailgating adds 5 points to your record.

• How to Avoid It: Maintain a safe following distance, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather conditions.

Statistic: Tailgating contributes to one-third of all rear-end crashes, which account for nearly 1.7 million accidents annually.

9. Driving Without a Valid License or Insurance

Driving without a valid license or insurance is illegal and carries serious consequences.

• Example: In Illinois, driving without insurance can result in 3 points and possible vehicle impoundment.

• How to Avoid It: Keep your license and insurance up to date, and always carry proof of coverage in your vehicle.

Legal Fact: Uninsured drivers make up 13% of motorists in the U.S., increasing the risk of uninsured crash victims.

Read more: How to Pay Traffic Fines Online in the U.S for 2025

10. Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Hit and Run)

Fleeing the scene of an accident, whether involving property damage or injury, is a major violation with severe penalties.

• Example: In North Carolina, leaving the scene of an accident can add 12 points and result in criminal charges.

• How to Avoid It: Always stop if you’re involved in an accident, exchange information, and contact law enforcement if necessary.

Legal Ramification: In some states, hit-and-run offenses result in felony charges with potential jail time.

Final Thoughts

At KnowInsiders, we believe that awareness is the key to smarter, safer driving. By understanding common traffic violations and their consequences, you can take control of your driving habits and avoid unnecessary fines or penalty points. More importantly, staying vigilant on the road helps protect not just your driving record but also your safety and that of others. So, stay informed, follow the rules, and drive responsibly—because smart driving is the best way to keep your journey smooth and stress-free!

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