You Can, And Should, Fight Your Traffic Tickets

Whether you are a truck driver, a business owner who operates a fleet of trucks, or an individual motorist, you need to take traffic tickets seriously – especially since seemingly minor infractions can lead to increased insurance premiums and license suspensions. In fact, in many instances, just two or three traffic tickets on a person’s driving record can be enough to lose his or her driving privileges.

Given what is at stake, you need an experienced and dedicated attorney in your corner looking out for your best interests. Fortunately, the legal professionals at The Law Office of Mindy Paget Brill are here to assist you. We believe you should fight every traffic ticket ― and we will help you do just that.

New York Traffic Ticket Penalties

In New York, traffic ticket penalties can be quite severe. Understanding these penalties is crucial for anyone facing a traffic violation. Here’s an overview of common traffic ticket penalties in New York:

Fines

Traffic fines in New York can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the violation. More severe offenses typically carry higher fines.

Points on Your License

Many traffic violations in New York result in the addition of points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a certain period can lead to license suspension or revocation.

License Suspension or Revocation

Serious traffic violations or accumulating too many points on your driving record can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The duration of the suspension or revocation depends on the nature and frequency of the offenses.

Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA)

In addition to fines and points, some traffic violations in New York may trigger a Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA). This is an additional fee imposed annually for three years for certain violations or accumulating six or more points on your driving record within 18 months.

Increased Insurance Premiums

Convictions for traffic violations can lead to significant increases in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies view traffic violations as indicators of increased risk, which may result in higher premiums for drivers with violations on their record.

Mandatory Driver Education Programs

In some cases, New York courts may require drivers to complete a defensive driving course or other educational programs as part of the penalty for certain traffic violations.

Ignition Interlock Devices (IID)

For certain alcohol-related offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI), New York may require the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle as a condition of reinstating your driving privileges.

If you’re facing a traffic violation, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced New York traffic ticket lawyer like those at The Law Office of Mindy Paget Brill. A knowledgeable attorney can assess your situation, explain your legal options, and help you navigate the legal process to minimize the impact of traffic ticket penalties on your driving record and future.

Do I Need An Attorney?

In a word, yes. While no one can ever guarantee specific results, having an attorney by your side can greatly increase your chances of success in traffic court. In fact, with more than 30 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys know exactly how to fight each and every type of summons and/or ticket you may receive, including:

• Yellow tickets and other moving violations, including traffic tickets associated with speeding, blinker use, running a red light, failing to stop at a stop sign and cellphone-related offenses, just to name a few
• Pink tickets and other criminal moving violations, including reckless driving offenses and a wide range of other criminal court summonses
• Trucking-related traffic offenses, including overweight tickets, parking tickets, CDL tickets as well as alleged safety and out-of-service violations

Thankfully, our lawyers are familiar with the traffic courts and their complex rules, and they will use that knowledge and experience to protect your license from points or suspension, keep your insurance costs down and save you time.

In many cases, we are able to mount a successful traffic ticket defense without the client ever having to actually attend court. Let us make the process as simple as possible for you, contact us today.

Common New York Traffic Violations

New York traffic laws are designed to ensure safety on the roads. However, several common violations can result in traffic tickets and penalties. Here are some of the most frequent traffic violations in New York:

1. Speeding: Speeding is one of the most prevalent traffic violations in New York. It occurs when drivers exceed the posted speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions.
2. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs is a dangerous violation that can lead to accidents and injuries. Drivers must come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs before proceeding when safe to do so.
3. Illegal Turns: Making illegal turns, such as improper left turns or U-turns where prohibited, is a common traffic violation in urban areas with heavy traffic congestion.
4. Distracted Driving: Distracted driving, including texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other activities that take your attention away from the road, is a serious violation in New York.
5. Driving Without a Valid License or Insurance: Operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license or insurance is illegal in New York and can result in significant penalties.
6. Failure to Yield Right of Way: Failure to yield the right of way, whether to pedestrians, other vehicles, or emergency vehicles, is a common traffic violation that can lead to accidents and injuries.
7. Following Too Closely (Tailgating): Driving too closely behind another vehicle, also known as tailgating, is a violation of New York’s traffic laws and can increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
8. Improper Lane Changes: Failure to signal when changing lanes or making unsafe lane changes without checking blind spots is a common traffic violation that can lead to accidents and injuries.
9. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious traffic violation in New York and can result in severe legal consequences, including license suspension, fines, and jail time.
10. Parking Violations: Parking violations, such as parking in a no-parking zone, blocking a fire hydrant, or parking in a handicap space without a permit, are common infractions that can result in fines and towing.

Understanding and obeying New York’s traffic laws is crucial for safe and responsible driving. If you receive a traffic ticket for any of these common violations, it’s essential to address it promptly and consider seeking legal advice from a qualified New York traffic ticket lawyer like those at The Law Office of Mindy Paget Brill. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and work to minimize the impact of the violation on your driving record and insurance premiums.

We Offer Free Consultations

Schedule your FREE consultation today by calling 212-634-2843. You can also reach us online. From our office in Lower Manhattan, we serve clients throughout New York City, Long Island and Westchester.

Traffic Ticket Lawyer FAQs

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in New York?

If you receive a traffic ticket in New York, it’s essential to review the ticket carefully and understand the violation(s) you’re accused of. Consider consulting with a traffic ticket lawyer from The Law Office of Mindy Paget Brill to discuss your options for fighting the ticket or mitigating its consequences.

How many points will I receive for a specific traffic violation in New York?

The number of points assigned for a traffic violation in New York varies depending on the severity of the offense. You can refer to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for a list of point values based on the violation.

How long do points stay on my driving record in New York?

Points from traffic violations typically remain on your driving record in New York for 18 months from the date of the violation.

Can I fight a traffic ticket in New York?

Yes, you have the right to contest a traffic ticket in New York. You can choose to plead not guilty and challenge the ticket in court. Our traffic ticket lawyers

What are the potential consequences of pleading guilty to a traffic violation in New York?

Pleading guilty to a traffic violation in New York may result in fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and potential license suspension or revocation, depending on the offense.

How can a traffic ticket lawyer help me with my case?

A traffic ticket lawyer can provide legal representation and guidance throughout the process of contesting a traffic ticket. At our firm, we can assess the circumstances of your case, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate on your behalf in court to seek a favorable outcome.

Can I negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties associated with my traffic ticket?

In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges or penalties associated with your traffic ticket. An experienced traffic ticket lawyer can help you explore potential plea deals and negotiate effectively on your behalf.

Will paying the fine for a traffic ticket automatically result in points on my driving record?

In most cases, paying the fine for a traffic ticket in New York is considered an admission of guilt and will result in the assessment of points on your driving record, in addition to other potential consequences.

What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket in New York?

Ignoring a traffic ticket in New York can lead to serious consequences, including additional fines, license suspension or revocation, and even the issuance of a warrant for your arrest. It’s essential to address traffic tickets promptly and take appropriate legal action.

Is it possible to have a traffic ticket dismissed in New York?

Yes, it is possible to have a traffic ticket dismissed in New York, especially if there are procedural errors or insufficient evidence to support the violation. Consult with The Law Office of Mindy Paget Brill for a free consultation.

How long do I have to respond to a traffic ticket in New York?

The deadline for responding to a traffic ticket in New York is typically indicated on the ticket itself. It’s crucial to take prompt action and respond by the specified deadline to avoid additional penalties and potential license sanctions.