Getting a traffic ticket is undoubtedly frustrating, but what many people in British Columbia fail to realize is that receiving multiple tickets can lead to even more serious consequences. In this blog post, we will shed light on the Driver Point Premium and Driver Risk Premium programs in British Columbia, explaining why accumulating traffic tickets can trigger significant undisclosed costs and other unexpected repercussions.
Understanding the Driver Point Premium Program
The primary aim of the Driver Point Premium program is to promote safe driving and penalize those with a history of traffic violations. When you receive a traffic ticket in British Columbia, you’ll be assigned penalty points based on the severity of the violation, as outlined in the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations. For instance, a speeding conviction results in three penalty points, while disobeying a traffic control device results in two points. If you accumulate four or more points within a 12-month period, you will be charged a Driver Point Premium.
The Driver Point Premium is an additional fee imposed on top of the fine for your traffic tickets. The amount of this premium varies based on the number of points you have accumulated and can range from $214 for four points to a staggering $29,376 annually, depending on your driving record. This premium may persist for several years and is assessed each year around your birthday. It’s not uncommon to witness individuals with just a couple of ticket convictions paying $500-$700 in Driver Point Premium each year for several years. This additional financial burden must be taken into account when considering whether to dispute a traffic ticket.
Unraveling the Driver Risk Premium Program
Similar to the Driver Point Premium, the Driver Risk Premium program was introduced to penalize high-risk drivers. High-risk drivers are those with convictions for specific driving offenses. If you are deemed a high-risk driver, you’ll be charged a Driver Risk Premium in addition to fines and increased insurance premiums.
The Driver Risk Premium is assessed per conviction and must be paid annually, often coinciding with your birthday. For a single “High-Risk” offense, the minimum charge is $392. Additionally, if you have multiple tickets within a certain timeframe, the Driver Risk Premium will be assessed on top of the Driver Point Premium.
The Impact on Insurance Rates
Traffic convictions also have a direct impact on your insurance rates. In 2018, British Columbia implemented changes that result in increased insurance premiums for drivers with traffic offenses. The exact extent of the increase is challenging to predict due to the complex calculation involved in insurance rates. Factors such as your location, driving habits, vehicle details, and more are taken into account. Even two minor driving offenses or one serious offense after June 10, 2019, could lead to higher premiums for Collision and Extended Third Party Liability coverage.
The Possibility of Driving Prohibitions
For class 7 drivers, even one ticket can trigger a driving prohibition, and for class 5 drivers, two tickets in a short period, especially if one is a high-risk offense, can lead to a driving prohibition. The Superintendent of Motor Vehicles delegate reviews your driving record when you have a conviction to determine if remedial action is necessary to address your driving behavior.
The Need to Act Wisely
Receiving multiple traffic tickets in British Columbia can have severe and hidden consequences. Not only do you face fines, but you also bear the weight of Driver Point Premiums and Driver Risk Premiums. Insurance rate increases and potential driving prohibitions further exacerbate the situation.
If you find yourself with a traffic ticket, it’s essential to consider disputing it. Seek professional advice and representation to navigate the complexities and potentially mitigate the impact.
