Traffic tickets―sooner or later, they're bound to happen to practically everyone. While getting one doesn't have to be a disaster, there are still some things you should know.

Top Demerit Point System

Nevada assigns a point scale to many moving violations, and these points will show up on your driving record. Every traffic ticket you receive (excluding parking tickets) will increase the points on your record, and if you accrue too many in a short amount of time, you might find yourself in trouble.

The number to remember is 12―12 points in 12 months can get you an automatic driver's license suspension. You'll be warned before you get there, though; the DMV will notify you by mail once you've accrued three or more points on your record.

Here's a quick list of the points given for common infractions:

• Reckless driving: 8 points

• Careless driving: 6 points

• Following too closely: 4 points

• Failing to yield right-of-way: 4 points

• Failing to yield to a pedestrian: 4 points

• Disregarding traffic light or stop sign: 4 points

• Driving too slowly: 2 points

• Speeding (up to 10 mph over limit): 1 point

• Speeding (11-15 mph over limit): 2 points

• Speeding (16-20 mph over limit): 3 points

• Speeding (21 mph or more over limit): 4 points

• Speeding (1-15 mph over limit in school zone): 4 points

• Speeding (16 mph or more over limit in school zone): 6 points

You can attend a DMV-approved traffic safety school and erase three points from your driving record in any 12-month period.

Find out more about Nevada's Demerit Point System on the DMV site.

Top Impact on Insurance

Besides adding points to your driving record, a traffic ticket can also negatively affect your insurance rates. These days, even one ticket can result in big increases to your payments. Check with your insurance carrier for more details. Some companies only count convictions, and others will not penalize you if you've taken care of the ticket through traffic school.

Top Taking Care of Your Ticket

Once you receive a traffic ticket, the DMV does not oversee payments or resolutions. The court in the county where you received the ticket will be the agency to contact for payment information, court appearance details, and answers to other ticket-related questions. The contact information for that court should be listed on your ticket.

Top Driving Safely―The Best Prevention

The real truth behind all this ticket information is that simply being a safe driver will help you avoid a lot of hassle and paperwork.

The DMV has prepared a number of information sheets with helpful information and tips about becoming a better driver all around:

• Speed and Aggressive Driving

• Seat Belts & Child Safety Seats

• Driving Under the Influence

• Older Drivers

• Motorcycle Safety & Licensing

The DMV has also partnered with Clark County and other local businesses to create a safe driving campaign called Bad Driving: What's Your Excuse?. Also check out the accompanying downloadable tip sheet, 21 Tips to Drive By.

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