WRGB- New guidelines for New York state drivers are set to take effect in February, altering the traffic points system.
Under the current system, drivers who accumulate 11 points in 18 months risk having their licenses suspended or revoked. The state has proposed extending this period to two years and increasing points for certain offenses.
With the extended timeframe, points will not expire as quickly, requiring drivers to be cautious for an additional six months.
The changes will affect several violations, including passing a stopped school bus, speeding up to 10 miles over the limit, using a cellphone while driving, and speeding in construction zones.
Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles aims to lower the threshold for permanent license forfeiture for reckless drivers who continue to drive under the influence.
Currently, a DWI carries zero points, but the new system will assign an automatic 11 points, sufficient for license suspension.
These changes have been approved and are expected to be implemented in February.