A Complete Guide on How to Check Demerit Points for Drivers

Driving is a responsibility that comes with rules and regulations designed to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. One such regulation is the demerit points system, which penalizes drivers for breaking traffic laws. In Australia, particularly in Perth, the demerit points system is crucial for keeping drivers accountable and promoting road safety. This guide will take you through the process of checking your demerit points, explain the significance of these points, and highlight how the best traffic lawyers in Perth can assist if you’re facing issues with demerit points.

What Are Demerit Points?

Demerit points are part of a system used across Australia to monitor and regulate driver behavior. When you commit a traffic violation, such as speeding or running a red light, demerit points are added to your driver’s license. These points accumulate, and if you reach a certain threshold, your license may be suspended or revoked. The number of demerit points incurred depends on the severity of the offense.

For example, minor infractions such as low-range speeding may attract fewer points, while serious offenses like driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could result in a higher number of demerit points. In Perth, the Western Australia Department of Transport manages the demerit points system, and every driver is responsible for knowing how many points they have on their license.

Why It’s Important to Check Your Demerit Points

Keeping track of your demerit points is essential for several reasons:

1. Avoiding License Suspension: If you accumulate too many demerit points within a specified time, your driver’s license can be suspended. In Western Australia, accruing 12 or more points within three years may result in a suspension. Knowing how many points you have helps you avoid hitting this critical limit.
2. Maintaining a Clean Record: Checking your demerit points regularly allows you to stay aware of your driving behavior. Being mindful of your record encourages safer driving habits and helps you avoid further infractions.
3. Legal Assistance: If you’re facing a suspension or accumulated multiple demerit points, checking your points will allow you to take proactive steps. The best traffic lawyers in Perth can provide legal advice or representation if you wish to contest a penalty or need guidance on reducing your points.

How to Perform a Demerit Point Check in Perth

Checking your demerit points is a simple process that can be done online or by contacting the Department of Transport. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a demerit point check:

1. Online Demerit Point Check

The most convenient way to check your demerit points is through the Department of Transport’s website. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the official website of the Department of Transport Western Australia.
• Step 2: Navigate to the “Demerit Points” section under the Driver & Vehicle Services page.
• Step 3: Select “Check Your Demerit Points” to access the online demerit point check service.
• Step 4: Enter your driver’s license number and other requested information.
• Step 5: Submit the form to view your current demerit points.

2. By Phone or In Person

If you prefer not to check online, you can contact the Department of Transport via their customer service number. Additionally, you can visit a local licensing center in Perth and request a demerit point check in person. Make sure you bring your driver’s license and identification documents for verification.

3. Through the Service WA App

For those who use the Service WA app, demerit points can be checked through the app by entering your driver’s license information. This is a convenient option if you already use the app for other government services.

Understanding the Consequences of Accumulating Demerit Points

If you accumulate demerit points, there are specific penalties you may face, depending on the number of points and the timeframe in which they were acquired:

1. Warning Letter: Drivers may receive a warning letter if they approach the limit but have not yet exceeded it. This serves as a reminder to drive carefully.
2. License Suspension: Once you reach 12 demerit points within three years, your license can be suspended for a period of time. The length of suspension varies depending on the number of points accumulated.
3. Good Behaviour Period: If your license is at risk of suspension, you may be offered a good behavior period. During this period, you must commit no further offenses, or you will face an even longer suspension.

What To Do If You Accumulate Too Many Demerit Points

If you find yourself accumulating demerit points at an alarming rate, there are several steps you can take:

1. Seek Legal Advice: The best traffic lawyers in Perth can offer invaluable assistance if you’ve accumulated a significant number of points. They may be able to help you contest a penalty, request a reduction in points, or appeal a suspension.
2. Enrol in a Defensive Driving Course: Some states and territories offer the opportunity for drivers to attend a defensive driving course to reduce their demerit points. While not available in every jurisdiction, it’s worth inquiring about in Western Australia.
3. Stay Informed About Double Demerit Points: During public holidays and long weekends, Western Australia enforces double demerit points for certain offenses. Understanding when these periods apply can help you avoid heavy penalties.

How Traffic Lawyers in Perth Can Help

If you’ve accumulated demerit points and are facing the risk of a suspension, it’s wise to seek professional legal assistance. The best traffic lawyers in Perth can help you navigate the legal complexities of the demerit point system. Here’s how they can assist:

1. Contesting Traffic Offenses: A traffic lawyer can help you contest a ticket or offense that you believe was unfairly issued. If successful, this could prevent demerit points from being added to your license.
2. Representing You in Court: If your case goes to court, a skilled lawyer can represent you and potentially reduce your penalties.
3. Advising on Appeals: Traffic lawyers can guide you through the appeal process if your license has been suspended due to demerit points.
4. Exploring Alternatives: In some cases, lawyers may help you explore alternatives such as a good behavior period, which allows you to retain your license under strict conditions.

Conclusion

Staying on top of your demerit points is essential for maintaining your driving privileges and avoiding license suspension. A demerit point check is a simple process that can be done online, by phone, or in person. By keeping track of your points, you can avoid severe penalties and promote safer driving habits.

If you’ve accumulated too many demerit points in Perth, it’s crucial to seek help before your license is suspended. The best traffic lawyers in Perth can provide the legal support you need to contest penalties, reduce demerit points, and keep you on the road. Always remember to drive safely and stay informed about the traffic laws that apply to you.