In Rijswijk, heavier sanctions are imposed for repeated traffic violations. The CBR may decide to conduct a driving fitness assessment or require mandatory courses. In serious cases, a driving ban may follow.
What does recidivism mean?
Recidivism refers to the repeated commission of criminal offenses. For traffic offenses, convictions in the past five years are considered. For serious violations, this period may be extended.
Consequences of repeated violations
Harsher sanctions
The court may impose heavier penalties in cases of recidivism, such as:
- Higher fines
- Extended driving ban
- Faster imposition of (conditional) custodial sentences
Interventions by the CBR
The CBR may take various measures, including:
- EMA - Educatieve Maatregel Alcohol (course on alcohol use)
- LEMA - Lichte Educatieve Maatregel Alcohol
- EMG - Educatieve Maatregel Gedrag (behavioral intervention)
- Driving fitness assessment - Medical or psychological evaluation
Revocation of driving license
In cases of serious recidivism, the CBR may declare your driving license invalid. In that case, you must retake the exam to be allowed to drive again.
Points system in the Netherlands?
There is no points system in the Netherlands like in some other countries. However, the CBR does keep track of traffic violations via the driving license register.
Rules for novice drivers
For drivers in the first five years after obtaining their driving license, stricter standards apply. A single serious violation can already lead to a CBR investigation into driving fitness.
Recidivism in alcohol violations
Repeated driving under the influence entails specific consequences:
- Mandatory participation in alternative programs (after abolition of alcohol interlock)
- Long-term driving ban
- Faster invalidation of the driving license
Frequently asked questions about recidivism in Rijswijk
How far back does the court look for traffic recidivism?
The court normally looks at convictions from the past five years. For very serious offenses, such as driving under the influence with injury, this may be longer. The CBR registers all violations in the driving license register, which may affect new penalties.
What are the consequences for novice drivers?
Novice drivers (first 5 years) are subject to stricter rules. A serious violation, such as speeding or drunk driving, can directly lead to a CBR investigation, a course, or invalidation of the driving license.
Can I lose my driving license due to repeated speeding violations?
Yes, with multiple speeding violations in a short period or very serious violations (e.g., more than 50 km/h too fast), the CBR may revoke your driving license. You must then retake the exam.
What is the difference between EMA and LEMA?
EMA (Educatieve Maatregel Alcohol) is an intensive multi-day course for serious alcohol violations (from 1.3‰) or recidivism. LEMA (Lichte Educatieve Maatregel Alcohol) is a one-day course for minor violations (0.8‰ to 1.3‰). Both are mandatory and at your own expense.
How long can a driving ban last in case of recidivism?
The duration of a driving ban varies depending on the violation and your criminal record. In case of recidivism, it can range from several months to even five years, especially in serious cases such as accidents caused by alcohol use.