Legally Speaking

The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles operates on a demerit point system for traffic violations. Demerit points are assessed against an operator’s driver’s license for moving violations.

Serious violations will carry more demerit points than minor ones. For example, an equipment violation such as a defective speedometer only carries two points while reckless driving carries six points.

If a driver accumulates 12 or more demerit points within a 12-month period, the driver’s license will be suspended for a minimum of two months. The 12-month period is measured from the date of the violation and not the date of conviction. This is to prevent drivers from attempting to get around the suspension by delaying the conviction date.

Holders of a probationary license are assessed double points for their second and subsequent citations. This is significant because two four-point violations within a 12-month period will result in the suspension of a driver with a probationary license since the points for the second citation will be doubled to 8 points.

Demerit points may be reduced by three points if a driver attends an approved traffic safety course. One three-point reduction is allowed in a three-year period for most drivers’ licenses.

This column is based on general principles of Wisconsin law, is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide legal advice. Each legal matter must be judged on the merits of its unique circumstances. If you have a legal problem, consult an attorney.

James A. Downey is an attorney at Pinkert Law Firm LLP with offices in Sturgeon Bay and Sister Bay. 920.743.6505 or 920.854.2616.