Driver’s License Suspensions Continue to Rise Across the Country
Driving is a privilege, not a right, and that privilege can be taken away if a driver fails to follow the rules of the road. In recent years, driver’s license suspensions have been on the rise across the country, as more and more drivers find themselves facing consequences for their actions behind the wheel.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were over 1.1 million driver’s license suspensions in the United States in 2020, a 7% increase from the previous year. This uptick in suspensions has been attributed to a variety of factors, including an increase in distracted driving, drunk driving, and other traffic violations.
One of the most common reasons for driver’s license suspensions is drunk driving. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), over 300,000 people are arrested for drunk driving in the United States every year. In many states, a drunk driving conviction can result in an automatic license suspension, ranging from a few months to several years, depending on the offender’s history and the severity of the offense.
In addition to drunk driving, distracted driving has also been a major contributor to the rise in driver’s license suspensions. With the increasing use of smartphones and other electronic devices behind the wheel, distracted driving has become a leading cause of accidents on the road. Many states have enacted laws prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving, and those caught violating these laws can face license suspensions as a result.
Other common reasons for driver’s license suspensions include speeding, reckless driving, failure to pay traffic tickets or fines, and driving without insurance. In some cases, even non-driving offenses, such as failing to pay child support or court-ordered fines, can result in a driver’s license suspension.
The consequences of a driver’s license suspension can be severe. Without a valid license, individuals may have trouble getting to work, attending school, or taking care of their families. In some cases, license suspensions can also lead to higher insurance rates, fines, and even jail time for repeat offenders.
To combat the rise in driver’s license suspensions, many states are implementing programs to educate drivers about the dangers of drunk and distracted driving, as well as the importance of following all traffic laws. These programs often include awareness campaigns, increased enforcement of traffic laws, and initiatives to help suspended drivers reinstate their licenses.
In addition, some states are exploring alternative solutions to license suspensions, such as the use of ignition interlock devices for drunk driving offenders. These devices require drivers to pass a breathalyzer test before starting their car, helping to prevent drunk driving incidents and allowing individuals to maintain their driving privileges.
As driver’s license suspensions continue to rise across the country, it is more important than ever for drivers to follow the rules of the road and make safe choices behind the wheel. By avoiding drunk and distracted driving, obeying all traffic laws, and staying informed about their driving record, individuals can help reduce the number of suspensions and keep themselves and others safe on the road.
