In Westland, repeated traffic offences are strictly addressed. In case of recidivism, the penalty may be heavier and the CBR may impose measures, such as a driving fitness assessment or mandatory training. In serious cases, you risk a driving disqualification.
What does recidivism mean?
Recidivism refers to the repeated commission of criminal offences. In traffic offences, the judge looks at convictions from the past 5 years. For serious offences, this period may be extended.
Consequences of repeated offences
Increased penalties
If you offend again, the judge may impose stricter sanctions:
- Higher fines
- Long-term driving disqualification
- More frequently a (suspended) prison sentence
Measures by the CBR
The CBR may impose various obligations:
- EMA - Educative Measure Alcohol (course on alcohol use)
- LEMA - Light Educative Measure Alcohol
- EMG - Educative Measure Behaviour (training for behavioural improvement)
- Driving fitness assessment - Medical or psychological examination
Driving licence declared invalid
In case of serious or repeated offences, the CBR may declare your driving licence invalid. You will then have to take the exam again to be allowed to drive.
No points system in the Netherlands
In contrast to some other countries, the Netherlands does not have a points system for traffic offences. However, the CBR does keep a record of all offences in the driving licence register.
Stricter rules for new drivers
For drivers who have held their driving licence for less than 5 years, stricter standards apply. A single serious offence may already lead to a CBR investigation into driving fitness.
Repetition in alcohol offences
For repeatedly driving under the influence, there are specific consequences:
- Mandatory courses or alternative sanctions (since the abolition of the alcohol interlock)
- Longer periods of driving disqualification
- More frequently invalidation of the driving licence
Frequently asked questions about recidivism in Westland
How far back does the judge look for traffic recidivism?
The judge usually looks at convictions from the past 5 years. In serious cases, such as driving under the influence with injury, this may be longer. The CBR registers all offences in the driving licence register, which may affect future sanctions.
What happens in case of an offence as a novice driver?
For new drivers (first 5 years), the rules are stricter. A serious offence, such as speeding or drunk driving, may directly lead to a CBR investigation. This may result in a course or invalidation of your driving licence, after which you must take the exam again.
Can I lose my driving licence due to repeated speeding offences?
Yes, in case of multiple speeding offences, the CBR may declare your driving licence invalid, especially in serious or frequent cases (e.g. more than 50 km/h too fast). You must then take the theory and practical exam again.
What is the difference between EMA and LEMA?
EMA (Educative Measure Alcohol) is a multi-day course for serious alcohol offences (from 1.3‰) or repetition. LEMA (Light Educative Measure Alcohol) is a one-day course for lighter cases (0.8‰ to 1.3‰). Both are mandatory and at your own expense; failure to complete leads to invalidation.
How long can a driving disqualification last in case of recidivism?
The duration of a driving disqualification varies depending on the offence and your history. In case of repetition, this can be several months to a maximum of 5 years. In very serious incidents, such as accidents caused by drunk driving, the penalty may be even heavier.