Delaware Motor Vehicle announces new Problem Driver Program

 

Delaware drivers who accumulate an excessive number of points for traffic violations, exceed 25 MPH over the posted limit or are convicted of aggressive driving are now required to attend a behavior modification driving course to avoid losing their driver’s license.

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles recently implemented a new driver improvement program which identifies problem drivers and attempts to help drivers change their behavior by providing information and training opportunities.

When drivers accumulate eight points, DMV now sends warning letters advising them of their point accumulation and penalties for further traffic violations.  Warning letters have reduced the number of suspensions among commercial drivers and DMV officials expect similar results with the other drivers.

Drivers who accumulate 12 points are required to attend the behavior modification course within 90 days or risk losing their driving privileges for two months.  The eight-hour course costs the driver $100.

When a similar course was taught in Massachusetts, the recidivism rate dropped.  Students also change their driving behavior and, as a group, received fewer tickets than the general population.

When a driver continues to accumulate points, DMV progressively imposes longer suspensions beginning with a mandatory four month license suspension at 14 points until a one-year suspension is imposed when the driver has 22 points.

All suspended drivers must complete a behavior modification course prior to reinstating their licenses.

This problem driver program also targets aggressive drivers.

Drivers convicted under the aggressive driving law are assessed six points and must complete a behavior modification driving course within 90 days after the conviction or risk having their license suspended.

The new program does not assess points to speeding violation of one to 14 miles over the speed limit, if the driver has not had any other violation within three years and pays the fine through the voluntary assessment center.

However, the violation is still indicated on the drivers’s record.  The intent of this provision is to encourage drivers to pay speeding tickets directly to the Voluntary Assessment Center and reduce the number of traffic related court cases.

 

 

/Source: Newark Post News 5/26/00