Getting a traffic ticket might not seem like a big deal, especially if you just pay the fine and move on. But in Colorado, every violation you commit behind the wheel adds up, and too many tickets can eventually lead to something much more serious—a suspended driver’s license. If you live in Northglenn or anywhere in Colorado, it’s important to understand how the state’s point system works and how quickly multiple infractions can impact your driving privileges.
At the Law Office of James Colgan, we help drivers protect their licenses and fight back against costly traffic violations. Here’s what you need to know if you're worried that a few tickets might snowball into something bigger.
The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point-based system to monitor driving behavior. Each traffic violation is assigned a certain number of points. If you accumulate too many points within a specific time period, the DMV can suspend your driver’s license. Here’s how many points you can accumulate before facing suspension:
If you hit or exceed the threshold, the DMV will send you a notice and may initiate a license suspension—even if the violations seem minor on their own.
Even seemingly minor tickets can have a major impact. Below are some of the most common traffic violations in Colorado and their associated point values:
As you can see, it doesn't take much to reach the threshold—especially if you’ve received multiple tickets within a short period of time.
If your license is suspended for accumulating too many points, the consequences can be immediate and far-reaching:
Driving with a suspended license is a separate offense that can lead to jail time, fines, and a much longer suspension period. If you're facing a possible license suspension, it's critical to speak with an attorney before it becomes permanent.
Yes—and in many cases, you should. Fighting a traffic ticket gives you a chance to:
Colorado law allows drivers to contest tickets in traffic court. With a skilled attorney on your side, you may be able to negotiate a plea deal, challenge the officer’s evidence, or even get the ticket dismissed entirely.
If you've already accumulated points and are worried about losing your license, our firm’s traffic violation defense services can help you take immediate action.
Points in Colorado stay on your driving record for 24 months from the date of the violation. After that period, they no longer count toward a suspension—but the conviction itself may remain visible on your record longer. Insurance companies and employers may also see older violations, which is why minimizing the number of tickets on your record is always in your best interest.
In some situations, a defensive driving course may help reduce points or satisfy a court requirement—but Colorado does not offer automatic point reductions just for taking a course. You typically need court approval to use a course as part of a ticket resolution. An attorney can help you determine whether this option applies to your case.
One or two traffic tickets might seem like a small issue, but when ignored or mismanaged, they can lead to serious consequences—especially in Colorado’s strict point-based system. Whether you’re facing a possible license suspension, worried about rising insurance rates, or simply want to challenge a ticket, the Law Office of James Colgan is here to help. We know how the courts work, how to negotiate reduced charges, and how to fight aggressively to protect your record.
Ready to protect your driving privileges and fight back against traffic violations? Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to defend your license—and your future.
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