New York State has implemented a stricter Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) point system for traffic violations that took effect Monday, February 16, making it easier for drivers to lose their licenses for serious infractions.

The updated system extends the lookback period for violations from 18 months to two years while significantly increasing point values for dangerous driving behaviors. Under the new rules, alcohol or drug-related convictions and aggravated unlicensed operation now carry 11 points—the threshold at which a license can be suspended.

"I do think you'll see people more aware of their driving, especially with drunk driving. We went from zero points to now, convicted of driving high, drunk driving. You get 11 points. So, at that point convicted, you're already suspended," explained patrol officer Brandan Flicker of the Brighton Police Department.

Other significant increases include eight points for over-height vehicle bridge strikes and speeding in construction zones, regardless of how fast the driver was going. Passing a stopped school bus, previously worth five points, now carries eight points under the new system.

Some law enforcement officials have expressed concerns about the implementation. Charles Murphy, President of the New York State Police Benevolent Association, worries about the lack of driver education regarding the changes.

"Unless we have the education that comes with these point changes, it's not going to be helpful to the motorists of New York State, and it's going to be more dangerous for my officers on the side of the road who are going to take longer to try and explain the point systems to the drivers," Murphy told CBS6.

Legal experts note that the higher point values could make it more difficult for drivers to negotiate reductions in traffic court. The complete list of updated violations includes increases for leaving the scene of a personal injury crash (now five points) and failure to exercise due care (increased from two to five points).

Public reaction has been mixed. "There's less chance of people getting killed when somebody is driving drunk, less chance of accidents happening," said Rita Gush, a local driver. "So yeah, I think it's a good thing."

Another driver, Ryan Pratt, expressed more ambivalence: "I'm indifferent on the speeding. It happens. I think there are worse things you can do while driving than going a little bit over, but hey, whatever they got to do."

Law enforcement officials maintain that while the point system has changed, their approach to traffic enforcement remains consistent. Officer Flickner noted that concerns about stricter enforcement for minor speeding are unfounded, though he believes the new system will encourage safer driving habits overall.

Bob Lonsberry