The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration completed a survey providing information about how people feel about speeding as compared to their actions. 91% of those surveyed agreed that people should obey the speed limit. However, over a quarter of those surveyed also indicated that they speed without thinking. 16% said they do not believe that speeding is dangerous for skilled drivers. Young male drivers are the most likely to speed. Male drivers admitted to speeding more than female drivers. Per NHTSA, speeding deaths account for one third of all traffic fatalities.
While speeding may not seem like a serious offense, in large part because most drivers do speed, it can become a serious issue. Not only can it become more serious if there is an accident involved, but too many speeding tickets can result in suspension of your driver’s license. Colorado has a points system. Drivers are allotted a certain number of points in a certain time frame. The number of points allotted depends on the driver’s age.
An adult driver, meaning a driver 21 years of age or older, is allotted 12 points in 12 consecutive months or 18 points in 24 consecutive months. Drivers between the age of 18 and 20 are allotted 9 points in 12 consecutive months or 12 points in 24 consecutive months or 14 points total between the ages of 18 and when the driver turns 21. Drivers under the age of 18 are allotted 6 points in 12 consecutive months or 7 points total until the driver turns 18.
In Colorado, there are varying levels of speeding. The more egregious the speeding, the more points that are assessed. There is a 1 point speeding charge, 4 point speeding charge and 6 point speeding charge. Frequently, speeding tickets can simply be paid without having to appear in court and the driver receives an automatic reduction in points. This system may be a fine solution for drivers with sufficient points available on their license, but if you find yourself nearing your points allotment, you may need to contact an attorney to try and help you save your license.