We are often asked the question: “How Much is a Speeding ticket in NY?”. The literal answer for a first conviction is that a New York state speeding fine costs between $45 and $600. For speeding 1 to 10 mph over the limit the range is $45 to $150. For speeding 11 mph to 30 mph, the range is $90 to $300. Finally, for speeding 31 mph or more, the range is $180 to $600. For a second speeding conviction, the maximum fine can be increased by up to $150 and for a third, it can be increased by up to $375.
Of course, these ranges of fines do not include the $88-$93 additional New York State speeding fine surcharged imposed on all moving violations. Additionally, it does not include the Driver Assessment Fee that is imposed on motorists who accumulate 6 or more points on their licenses. This fee is $300 for 6 points and $75 for every point above 6.
However, there are many other NY speeding ticket costs. For example, it is not widely known (or enforced) but a judge can also impose up to 15 days in jail for a speeding 1 to 10 mph speeding ticket, and up to 30 days for 11+ mph speeding ticket.
New York Speeding Ticket Fines and Points
On the other hand, most of you know that speeding tickets result in points being added to your driver license. In the state of New York, a speeding ticket carries a total of 3 to 11 points. Below is an overview of NY speeding ticket points:
Speeding 1 to 10 MPH: 3 points
Speeding 11 to 20 MPH: 4 points
Speeding 21 to 30 MPH: 6 points
Speeding 31 to 40 MPH: 8 points
Speeding 41+ MPH: 11 points
Beyond the points, another speeding ticket cost is that it can result in a license suspension or revocation. Some judges will suspend a motorist for just one 8-point or 11-point speeding ticket conviction. Some will suspend for two speeding convictions. The DMV can suspend your license if you accumulate 11 or more points within 18 months (from speeding convictions or otherwise). Finally, three speeding convictions within 18 months will result in an automatic and mandatory 6-month revocation of driver’s license.
Another cost of a speeding ticket conviction involves your automobile insurance rates. By law, a New York insurance company cannot raise your rates for one speeding conviction of 15 mph above the limit (or less) if you have an otherwise clean record. For a higher speeding ticket or multiple convictions, however, your auto insurance rates can be hiked. The only option to address a hike is to take the Driver Safety Class that takes 10% off your insurance rates.
As you can see, there are many NY speeding ticket costs. You, therefore, should always be aware of speed limits and heed your speedometer. For 20+ years, our NYC law firm has helped thousands of motorists each year fight their traffic tickets throughout New York State and keep their licenses as clean as possible. Feel free to call us at 212-683-7373 or email us at lawyer@nytrafficticket.com for a free consultation.
2297 Comments. Leave new
Matthew,
I got a ticket yesterday in Hancock (Delaware County) doing 75 in a 55 — I was actually doing 78 but the officer lowered it. I have a clean record but pleading not guilty will mean I have to go back up there and its 2.5 hours from my home. Do you think they will do anything over the phone if I agree to plea or perhaps you could recommend a better way?
Thanks.
John G,
I doubt that you can plea bargain it over the phone. If you cannot or do not want to travel, then I recommend hiring an experienced NY traffic lawyer. A lawyer can appear without you needing to appear.
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding ticket in new york going 80 in a 50. Also a fail to signal even though I know I did. And 2 tint tickets. I have a nj license will the points transfer and what should I do in court? its my first offense ever and I’m 23 years old
Alex,
Convictions to the speeding ticket and fail to signal ticket will transfer transfer as 2 points each to your NJ license. We recommend fighting these tickets. I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” which should help you understand the process.
Matthew Weiss
Do I really need a lawyer for this case? And will the cop remember everything I said to him and the reason I might have been speeding? Or will he just remember the information given in the ticket?
Hi,
I was driving a rented car with IL license plates on a 65 mph highway in NY when a patrol car stopped me claiming I was going 80 mph (exactly 80?) according to the laser radar.
While I was not watching my speedometer at that moment I believe I was going slower among other cars. While I was very polite, the officer would not speak with me beyond his routine explanations.
Moreover, I can barely read parts of the ticket as it would seem the printer in the police car ran out of ink.
1. Should I take my plea to court?
2. If I cannot read the ticket does this have any effect on my situation AND how do I find out the missing details? (The ticket was given near the town of Saugerties NY yet I reside in Manhattan).
3. What is the fine I should expect if found guilty and does it matter if I just recently got my license (I am in my 40s).
Thank you for your help,
EJ
EJ,
Answers follow your questions.
1. Should I take my plea to court? You should plead not guilty. At the Saugerties court, you (or your traffic lawyer) can work out a favorable plea bargain to save you points.
2. If I cannot read the ticket does this have any effect on my situation AND how do I find out the missing details? If any critical items are illegible then you have a great argument for dismissal (especially if the court’s copy is likely illegible).
3. What is the fine I should expect if found guilty and does it matter if I just recently got my license (I am in my 40s). The fine is roughly $200 if you just plead guilty. If you are still on probation (first 6 months of being licensed), the you should consult with a traffic lawyer to make sure you handle this case properly.
Matthew Weiss
Hello
I am from Ontario and was pulled up for doing 80 in a 65 zone on the I-390 near Avoca. I was keeping up with traffic and was in the right hand lane when I was pulled over.
The ticket mentions a date that I have to appear or mail in my response. My response options are only GUILTY or NOT GUILTY. There is no option for a plea to reduce the charge.
Do I have to appear in person on the date and time mentioned in the ticket at the Avoca courthouse to plea bargain to reduce the charge. Or can I plead NOT GUILTY and they will offer me a reduced charge while waiving my right to a trial?
Thanks
Mario
Mario,
You should plead not guilty. Most courts require you (or your traffic lawyer) appear to get a reduction.
You (or your lawyer) should be familiar with the Ontario demerit point system to minimize the consequences on your Ontario license.
Matthew Weisss
Hi,
I am from Toronto and on my way home from nys I got pulled over for doing 80 on a 55mph zone. Can you let me know how much this ticket will cost? It is FTP
Town of Hancock. Thanks.
TO Driver,
This ticket carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. The conviction will transfer to Ontario and you will get demerit points.
I therefore recommend fighting it as you very likely can save points, demerit points and $300.
Matthew Weiss
I have a similar situation – was ‘caught’ doing 72 mph in a 55 mph work zone this morning on I-190 north in Niagara Falls, NY. Since I really don’t feel I was going that fast, I asked to see the radar, and was denied, saying that he visually saw me speeding and then clocked me. I am from Niagara Falls Ontario, Canada, but work in Buffalo, NY and was on my way home from the night shift. I received a speeding ticket just over 6 yrs ago in Orchard Park, NY. I have 3 questions 1) should I fight it/ plead not guilty? 2) can I represent myself or do I need a traffic lawyer? 3) will they reduce it with my prior offense 6 yrs ago?
Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Cindy,
You should plead not guilty. The court will likely reduce it despite your conviction 6 years ago. If you have the time and are comfortable, you can appear yourself. Otherwise, we recommend that you retain an experienced traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
I was pulled for a radar reading of 82 in a 65 on I-90 in Verona, NY. This looks to be a 4-pointer, but is my first ticket and that too in New York State. I reside in MA and I mentioned to officer that I was driving at 75 and not 82, I know that i was driving over speed. Is it worth showing up to a court date? I really don’t see that I have any defense, but I heard that showing up and pleading no contest can sometimes reduce the fine/points. Is this true or will I probably be getting the full fine anyway? I would estimate the full fine to be around $225 including surcharge, correct? Does NY state share the traffic records with MA?
Paul,
If you (or your traffic lawyer) show up, you’ll be likely offered a reduced charge. I don’t suspect the fine will be dramatically lowered (if at all), however. The fine will be roughly $200.
Speeding ticket convictions in NY will transfer to MA as a minor infraction and will be assessed up to 2 points on your MA record.
Matthew Weiss
I got pulled over in Nassau County on the Long Island Expressway for going 78 in a 55. The cop didn’t have me on radar it states on the ticket that he paced me to 78 which seems like a pretty unlikely way to determine my exact speed. I was driving in lunch time traffic going towards NYC and my speed was always under 75. I looked up all the information and given the 6 points on my license plus the fees totaling close to $500 and the potential insurance increase I was wondering what the best way to handle this situation is. Do I plead guilty or non-guilty? Is there a way I can have them reduce the speed to between 11-20mph instead of my current 21-30mph charge? I really just want the points the be decreased and the driver assessment charge of $300 to be dropped…
Anything advice you can give me would be much appreciated.
Katherine,
Yes, plead not guilty. At the Nassau County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency, you can work out a plea bargain (i.e., reduction) in exchange for waiving your right to go to trial. Therefore, you want to plea not guilty and appear at your conference date. At that time, you can negotiate a reduction.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I would like to get your advice on a Ticket I got in NY state Chazy Town right before the Canadian boarder on the I87 coming back from Atlantic City(was a long and painful drive). I’m not used to not having the price on the ticket and the points I’ll lose. I am from Quebec I wanted to know approximately how much would it cost (all costs including any extra fees), and if the points will get transferred to my Quebec License.
Or should I plead not guilty, the story is a bit weird don’t know what should I do. I got stopped he told me I was doing 86/65 before slowing down to 82/65. What’s weird is that the officer told me I saved the car that was in front of me from a ticket and he thought I was with them. Anyways i was on the right lane and am pretty sure I wasn’t doing 86 nor 82 and I told that to the officer. At the end he told me the info if I plead guilty or not. Then I asked him if I could get an estimate on the ticket if I were to plead guilty. He told me “Why would you do that, you said you’re not guilty, I don’t want you to plead guilty for something you don’t think you’re guilty”.
In the ticket the info is charge based on Officers “direct observation”, Speed verified by “radar” Model “Stalker dual” Additional Information : “Subject was northbound while IB87 was the same with a visual of the subject and stalker radar. Subject orginally at 86/ 65 before slowing to 82/65.
What do you think?
QC Guy,
Because points from New York transfer to Québec, we recommend that you fight this ticket. This speeding ticket (82/65) carries 4 NY points, and roughly a $200 fine. It also will transfer as 2 demerit points to Québec.
You can fight this yourself or retain an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Hi, in regard to “QC”, you wrote his “speeding ticket (82/65) carries 4 NY points, and roughly a $200 fine transfer 2 points to Quebec”. Is the $200 with or WITHOUT a driver assessment fee?
I too received a NY speeding ticket. I have not yet sent it in although it’s due to be returned before 08/16/2011. Should I plead guilty and get over with it? Reading your post, I have second thoughts. How do I fight it from Montreal and can I ask for reduced charge and points?
Many thanks
Angelo,
There is not Driver Assessment Fee for motorists who only have 4 points in New York. Therefore, QC would not be subject to this extra fee (starting at $300) unless he had other NY points.
I believe your “second thoughts” are well-founded. I highly recommend fighting your NY speeding ticket. If you don’t want to travel from Montreal to fight your ticket, then you will need to hire a NY traffic lawyer . We often are able to avoid or reduce points for our Quebec driver clients because we are very familiar with the Quebec demerit points system.
Feel free to call us if you want a free consultation.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
i got the speeding ticket today, brooklyn, ny. it is 53/30 ticket. i dont really think i was going so fast…this is my first seeding ticket. i ask for the radar report to actually see how much over I was going and got rejected by the officer becouse he said that police equipment doesn’t allow to do soo… and was being told of 2 points where there is 6 points as I later found out on the tocket info. The officer said that the speed on the ticket is lower than actual….and by the way there were soo many cars speeding on the parkway passing by me , I took the exit and was waiting on the red light to get to the service road and then after the light turned green and I started to drive I saw a police car fallowing me with the light on…horrible … i did not even think he was after me…thoygh he wanted to go through…. what should i do? what are the consequences and my chances? can I be given a ticket without the radar report proving my guilt?
Barb,
You should plead not guilty and fight this speeding ticket. As you write, it carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. You have nothing to close by fighting it.
Here is an article that I wrote entitled “Fighting A Speeding Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“. It will help you understand what you are up against.
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding ticket for 80 in a 65 in Broome County (from a state trooper) I live in PA and did not realize how fast I was going. Should I plead not guilty and ask for a plea bargain, or just pay it? I have not had a ticket in 10+ years.
Matt L,
Yes, plead not guilty to this speeding ticket. You will likely be able to reduce this ticket to a lesser speed. Specifically, I expect them to offer a 70/65 for your Broome County speeding ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks so much Matthew! I will let you know how it turns out.
I just got a speeding ticket and failure to signal ticket the nypd, funny thing is I was flowing with traffic, I asked him why did you pull over he says you were at 85 and you didn’t signal, I really don’t recall myself speeding and I always signal, basically NYPD gives out false tickets, I need help any advice guys.
Shariq,
It sounds like this is an 8-point speeding ticket (85/50) and, therefore, one that you should fight. Please not guilty and appear in court to to fight it. Keep in mind that there are no plea bargains or deals in the NYC Traffic Violations Bureaus. Here is a link to an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” which may help you with your efforts.
Matthew Weiss
I just recieved a ticket on Harlem rd for going 52 in a 35 (Cheektowaga,ny -Erie county). The cop was not very cordial even though I was. I know I was not going over 42 as I had just turned onto the road from genesse from a dead stop, I did speed up a small amout to avoid a car hitting me as the street merged from 2 lanes into 1. He was comming from the opposing direction with no radar. Should I plead not guilty? What is the possible points/ fines? I have NEVER had any ticket what so ever and only 1 accident over 5 years ago.
ljs,
A speeding ticket (52/35) such as yours carries 4 points and can adversely affect your auto insurance rates. I therefore recommend pleading not guilty. Given your good driving record, I expect that you’ll be able to negotiate a favorable reduced charge. I predict that you’ll be offered a 2-point ticket (or even possibly a 0-point ticket). Either way, such a reduction will avoid your insurance being increased and, of course, save you points.
how much would the fines run best and worst case senario?I should add I was driving my daughters car who also has a clean record and was in the car.
Matthew,
Great site and info. I live in Maryland and got a speed ticket on the NY thruway going 89//65.
I have three questions:
1. The ticket doesn’t say the fine and the cop said only once I plead guilty will they tell me how much to pay. Is that legal? How can I plead guilty not knowing how much to pay?
2. Do points transfer from NY to Maryland?
3.How much will the fine be?
Thanks!
Tzi,
Answers below.
1. The ticket doesn’t say the fine and the cop said only once I plead guilty will they tell me how much to pay. Is that legal? How can I plead guilty not knowing how much to pay? In New York, motorists will often not know their fine amount before they enter the plea. It is a common practice here.
2. Do points transfer from NY to Maryland? Convictions from NY will show up on MD license but points do not transfer for a speeding ticket. A MD insurance company can use MD and out-of-state convictions to determine your rates. So check with them.
3. How much will the fine be? Roughly $200
I am from Massachusetts and recently got a speeding ticket going 82 in a 50. I was on I-95 going North by Conner St in the Bronx County. It says I have to appear in Court and there is no fine on the ticket. Is it mandatory that I show up in court? If I do, I mine as well fight it right? Second, do you know if the points will carry over to my MA licsense? What are your reccomendations?
Thanks,
John,
You or your traffic lawyer must appear in court because this is an excessive speeding ticket (31+ mph).
Speeding tickets in NY transfer to MA as a minor infraction and would be assessed 2 points on your MA driving record.
I suggest you fight this ticket. Call me if you have any questions. You theoretically can be suspended in NY for an 8-point speeding ticket and MA will honor such a suspension.
Matthew Weiss
I was driving from nj (where i live) to ct, and got pulled over for doing (apparently) 88 in a 65. I was freaked out and in the left lane, so i pulled over to the left side. There was no guard rail, so i pulled halfway into the grass. I was not blocking the left lane. I got a ticket for no stopping/standing/parking on the highway, and a speeding ticket. I guess I should just plead guilty? I’m supposed to get 6 points in ny as well…will this raise my insurance rates as well?
Ugh,
I recommend fighting these two tickets. The speeding ticket carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 driver assessment fee. If you fight it, you likely can save some NY points and the $300 driver assessment fee.
By the way, if you plead guilty, you will also get 2 points on your NJ license.
Matthew Weiss
Matt:
If I have requested a reduced fine for a speeding ticket in Franklin County (Malone) where I was stopped doing 57/30. Can I still plead not guilty? Do I have to appear in court and do I need a lawyer? What is the criteria for my defense? I have a clean record and and from out of state (Quebec). Thanks for your assistance.
Joanne,
You can try and withdraw your guilty plea and enter a not guilty plea. Call the traffic court in Franklin County ASAP. You or your lawyer generally have to appear in the Malone traffic court in order to get a plea bargain.
Your clean record and the prosecutor’s desire to avoid a time-consuming trial, should be enough for you or your traffic lawyer to get a reduced charge.
By the way, because NY convictions will transfer to Quebec and results in the imposition of demerit points on your Quebec license, we recommend fighting this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I was driving in Oswego county on 176 (Volney) I passed a friend because I had get home before they got there. As soon as I passed them I was pulled over and the police officer said that I was going 73 in a 55, though when I looked at the speedometer it said 70. I received a ticket, when I called in the woman said that could write the district attorney or someone and they would reduce it, considering I have no other convictions on my record. I am an out of state driver, I am a resident of SC. Was this the right thing to do? How much can I have it reduced? I cannot go to trial because of college.
Carlie,
Yes, you should plead not guilty and try and negotiate a lesser charge. See if you can arrange to resolve this by mail. If not, then you’ll have to retain a traffic lawyer to appear on your behalf. You should be able to get this reduced to a 2-point non-speeding ticket based on my experience).
By the way, points from a NY conviction will NOT be added to your South Carolina license (although the conviction will be reported to SC and your insurance company possibly could use the conviction against you).
Matthew Weiss
Recently got my first speeding ticket for going 84 in a 65 mph zone. The court listed on the ticket is “Dansville Town Court” in Steuben County, NY — about 6 hours drive from Brooklyn, NY — so I would not be able to make the court appearance (would need your services to represent on my behalf).
Currently, I have no points on my license and no other convictions. From the DMV charts, this looks like 4 points if I enter a guilty plea. Should I deal with the fine and look to remove those 4 points if I take a safety driving course? If I plead not guilty, what would you likely have this ticket plea bargained to? What is your recommendation?
M.A.
You are right. This is a 4-point ticket. We, therefore, recommend fighting it. We’ll contact you directly to discuss further.
Thanks
Matthew Weiss
I am 18 years old and I’ve had my license for 2 years now and got pulled over for going 75 in a 55 in Buffalo, NY. Would I be able to get this reduced? If so, how do I do that? And, I believe this will add 4 points to my license, will my insurance skyrocket because I am only 18 years old? (This is the only offense my family and I have ever had and I’m on my parents’ insurance.)
Mark,
If your case is NOT scheduled at the Buffalo Traffic Violations Bureau, then a reduction is possible. Otherwise, you will not be able to plea bargain.
If you can plea bargain, on your court date, you’ll sign in and be called for a pre-trial conference. At that time, you can discuss pleading guilty to a lesser charge.
Your insurance rates can be increased for a conviction to this charge. You should contact your insurance company to ask. However, anyone convicted of speeding 16+ mph is subject to an insurance hike.
Matthew Weiss
Hello, I was pulled over by the police in German Flats, NYC, charged for going with 79 miles/ hour in a 65 zone. I am from CT. I have no previous convictions.
My questions please:
1. should i plea not guilty?
2. i know technically imprisonment is also a possible conviction – how likely is that?
3. if i appear for the court, when do I have the chance to talk to the prosecutor – before the actual trial? what is pre-trial conference – does it happen on the phone or in person?
3. if the policeman does not show up, the meeting with the prosecutor does not even happen?
thank you,
eric
Eric,
We recommend that you plead not guilty.
Imprisonment is extremely unlikely for a 79/65 speeding ticket.
If you appear in court, you’ll have a chance to conference the case with a prosecutor before any trial. This is sometimes called a pre-trial conference.
If the police fails to show, your meeting with the prosecutor will still occur. Indeed, often the police officer is not asked to attend at this stage of the proceeding.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for your Informaiton.
Iam just thinking of plead guilty and pay the fine whatever, since I dont have any points on my current state PA ID , I dont drive frequently in NY , I will just explain . Actually I was not doing 86 , I was doing around 76 to 78 MPH , I will keep in additional two lanes given in the please guilty part.
Regarding Seat belt I have seen there 195 $ fine including surcharge, my daughter is under 16 years, she is 8 years old.
https://newyork.drivinguniversity.com/speeding-tickets/speeding-ticket-fines
thaks a lot for your immediate response.
Best Regards
Hi , I got a Speeding ticket 1180 d on Hwy 86 NY , I was doing 86 MPH on 65 MPH ZONE, I am from PA .
I Have a clean history , and this is my first speeding ticket.
How many points will I likely to get for this violation?
How much fine would be?
Shall I plead guilty or not guilty for this ticket?
I got another ticket , my daughter who was not buckled-up , 1229C 1B.
Please advice me how to go about it? appreciate it.
Raman,
This is a 6-point violation in NY but points from NY will NOT transfer to PA. If you are convicted of speeding (86/65), the fine is roughly $200 but you will also have to pay a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. If you fight it, you likely can get this case reduced to a lesser charge (i.e., less NY points) and saved the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
The seat belt ticket is 0 points if you daughter is an adult. Otherwise, it is a 3-point ticket and will raise the Driver Assessment Fee to $525.
Feel free to call us if you have any further questions.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
Hi Matthew. I was coming back from a vacation in Montreal, Canada. I was driving down I-87 for about half an hour after the border. I ended up getting a speeding ticket of 70mph in 50mph work zone. I didn’t realize I was in the work zone and by the time I had slowed down, the officer said he saw me and came to pull me over. So I ended up with a speeding ticket of 70mph in 50mph Work Zone in Essex County of New York State. I live a good distance away from the court area. I was wondering how much this fine would probably come out to and if it’s worth it for me to make the really long drive back up to contest it? What’s your thoughts?
Abe,
The fine for such a ticket would be roughly $200 (assuming you have an otherwise clean NY record). Points from NY will transfer to your Quebec driving license as demerit points so you may want to fight it. If you hire a traffic lawyer, you will not have to appear in court and, in my opinion, there is a good chance that this case could be reduced to something that carries 0 points in Quebec.
Feel free to call me if you have any questions.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
Thanks for the info. Sorry about the confusion. I forgot to say that I’m a New Jersey resident, with a NJ license. I was vacationing in Montreal and got the ticket when driving back home. So the drive back up to where I got the ticket would still be about 6 hours.
Abe,
A NY conviction will translate to 2 points on your NJ license.
Matthew Weiss
Last Saturday I was driving to up state New York and I got pulled over for doing 76 in a 55 work zone. I was just keeping up with traffic. The ticket says speeding in a work zone and is from Albany County. This was my first time driving in 2 months (I was in Europe). Also, I live in Michigan and I don’t know if I should fight it or not. Matthew, do you think I have a chance or is it not even worth fighting?
Stewart,
Michigan law generally requires that the same action be taken for tickets received out-of-state as those received in Michigan, therefore, points and suspensions may be imposed on your Michigan license for a New York speeding conviction.
We recommend fighting this speeding ticket (76/55) so obtain a better result than 6 NY points (plus Michigan points), roughly a $200 fine and a $300 driver assessment fee. By fighting it, you likely can save points (NY and Michigan) as well as the $300 driver assessment fee.
Feel free to call us if you have any further questions.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew. I see a lot of scenerios similar to mine so I hope I don’t sound redundant with my questions. I was fined for going 82 in a 55 in Columbia County (specifically Chatham, NY). I do believe that he assessed me a few miles over my actual speed. I’m a MA resident so it pains me to think of requesting a court date and having to drive there but if it’s worth it I will go ahead with that. The last moving violation I had was probably 11 years ago so I have a clean record. From what I’m reading it sounds like I’m in the 6 point range and will be assessed the surcharge. In your experience do you think there’s a good chance I can get this reduced down to the 4 point range? Thanks for your help.
Karen,
Yes, I think that if you (or a traffic lawyer on your behalf) appear, you can save, at least, 2 points as well as the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Also, if you plead guilty or are convicted, a NY speeding ticket will transfer to MA as a minor infraction and you would be asessed 2 points on your MA record.
Feel free to call me if you have any further questions.
Matthew Weiss
21268-7373
Hey I see a lot of a good questions and very good answer, you have something good for me as well, I was pulled over today by the Tupper Lake State Trooper and got a speeding ticket for going 75mph in a 55 mph zone. I live in Québec (Canada ) and me going back to the the Tupper Lake (Andirondacks) court may be be too costly 4-hour drive. Do you have suggestions or how would you know much would be the fine? I never had a ticket in the US before therefore do not know the rules. I was very surprised to see a ticket with no charge with it. In Québec, we see the price and the points we loose.
Thanks
Daniel,
The fine for this speeding ticket (75/55) will be roughly $200 and will subject you to 4 NY points. This conviction will transfer to your Québec license resulting in 3 demerit points.
Given the points and the affect that this ticket may have on your auto insurance rates, you may want to fight it. An experienced New York traffic lawyer can handle it for you and avoid you need to appear at the Tupper Lake traffic court. You should also make sure that you hire someone who is familiar with the Québec demerit point system.
Based on our experience representing Québec drivers, a 0-demerit point result is possible here.
Matthew Weiss
I was just pulled over on the Taconic Parkway in Columbia County, more specifically Claverack, NY, for going 75 in a 55. I am from out of state (CT) and it would be very difficult for me to make the court appearance. Do you have any advice on what I should do? Additionally, do you have an idea of the total dollar amount that I will have to pay for the speeding ticket?
I should also note that I have never been pulled over before and have never received any kind of parking or speeding ticket.
Thank you,
Rebecca,
If you cannot attend court, then you should hire an experienced traffic lawyer to appear in your place. Claverack Traffic Court is actually a pretty good place to fight a ticket as they offer reasonable plea bargains.
The fine and surcharge for your ticket should be roughly $200 especially given your clean record.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I just got pulled over for doing 76 in a 55mph work zone in Hastings, NY. This is the first time i’ve been pulled over and my first ticket. From what I see, this is a 6-point offense. What do you recommend I do? Plead not guilty? How would I go about fighting that case? Just ask that they reduce the violation or fight by the means of it being a first offense? Thank you for any help that you have to offer.
Michael,
I recommend pleading not guilty. At your conference date, you should ask to speak to the prosecutor and see what you can negotiate explaining that you have an otherwise clean record.
You should be able to get this reduced to, at least, a 2 or 3 point ticket. This will save you points as well as the $300 driver assessment fee.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Very serious ticket. I got a 75 in a 45 work zone. First ticket ever. So stupid, i was cruising at 4am for vacation, didn’t notice the sign change. Westchester county, rye court. I just moved from Md to ny. Officer and I were chatty, very polite. I need advice!
Justin,
This is a 6-point work zone speeding ticket. It carries roughly a $400 fine and a $300 driver assessment fee. A conviction can also be used by your insurance company to raise your rates. Finally, if you are convicted of a second work zone speeding ticket, your license will be suspended. We therefore recommend fighting it.
How you fight it depends on a few factors including where the case is pending.
Feel free to call us for a free consultation.
Matthew Weiss
I received a 74 in a 55 driving into a work zone on I-90 in Cattaraugus County (the cruise control was still on). The officer told me that he wouldnt make it a work zone violation. As I look at the ticket it says “Arrest Type – Work Zone”. Does this mean it actually is a work zone offense and I will get fined doubled? I am from PA and thinking about fighting it and making the long drive back to NY. It seems to be a 4 point offense and my record is clean. I take it that there will not be an additional $300 dollar fee since it isnt 6 points.
Thanks
Fish,
Assuming your NY record is otherwise clean, you will not have to pay the $300 driver assessment fee. If the ticket is written under VTL 1180(f), then it is a work zone speeding ticket and the fine will be doubled (unless you fight it and get it reduced).
Points from a NY ticket will not transfer to PA but a conviction will be reported to PA (so your insurance company can find out about it and possibly use it against you).
Matthew Weiss
I recently got a ticket for 57 in a 30 Zone in Malone NY. It was my very first offense, We got some info from the officer who stopped us but it is a bit different from what we got from the PD. We were on a hilly road and had just entered the 30 zone coasting with my foot off the gas. We also explained to the officer that we were almost out of gas and were anxious to get to a gas station (also from Quebec and had no clue where the gas station was). It is also a new car and we did not know the fuel range! Three questions 1) should we please guilty or not and 2) we have a form that was faxed to us allowing us to request a reduction, should we mail it or would it make more sense to bring it in person? Finally, how much of a fine are we looking at? Any other relevant info would be appreciated. Thanks!
Kelly,
Plead not guilty. A NY conviction will result in demerit points transferring onto your Quebec license.
Mail in the form. A personal appearance likely won’t make a difference.
The fine is likely around $200.
I hope this helps but feel free to ask me any other questions.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew:
If I plead not guilty will I have to appear in court?
On top of wondering if I would need to appear in court I was wondering if I should or could plead not guilty if I have applied for a fee reduction? Should I just pay the $200 and be done with it? Thanks again for your help!
Can points be taken off a PA license if ticket was obtained in NY? If the ticket is paid (235) and 6 points taken off the licensce. why is there an additional 300 dollar fee? when will the points be removed ?
Kat,
Points from a NY conviction do NOT transfer to your PA license (although the conviction is reported to PA and can be used by your PA insurance company to raise your rates).
The $300 extra charge is called the Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee and all motorists (even out of state ones) who accumulate 6 (or more) points must pay it. Even though you have a PA license, you must pay it. This extra fee is one reason that we often recommend fighting 6-point speeding tickets.
Matthew Weiss
I got speeding ticket in Herkimer County for driving 55 in a 45 last April. I took the ticket to a lawyer. He said I had a 99 percent chance it would be reduced, because I was a first offender. I haven’t heard from the court since. Now, I have another speeding ticket from the same town. It was for driving 16 over the speed limit. Will I hang for this?
Matt
You will NOT hang. You will likely be offered a lesser charge (unless the police officer already reduced it road-side).
Your speeding ticket carries 3 points so expect either a 0-point or 2-point offer.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I’m an Illinois driver that got a ticket (in NY) for 75 in a 55. I can make the court date, and my record is otherwise clean. Is your advice to “ask the prosecutor if he or she is willing to reduce the charge in exchange for you waiving your right to a trial”? What if they don’t offer to reduce the charge?
Thanks
Tom,
Yes, that is my advice. It is possible that they refuse to make you an offer but highly unlikely. There are a few courts in New York that do not plea bargain and, in others that allow plea bargaining, sometimes an offer will not be made for a variety of reasons. However, overall, most courts in New York will opt to resolve not guilty pleas via plea bargain. If you want to fax or email us the ticket, we are happy to review it for you and see what our database indicates for your particular court.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
212-726-0135 fax
Hi there,
I was pulled over going 88 in a 55 in Binghampton in my rental. What do you think the fine will be around? I’m not looking forward to it. I’m from Canada and I plan on paying it, do you think this will affect my insurance in Canada? I was speeding up to change lanes but I don’t think any excuse will help me…
Looking for some advice and knowledge.
Thank you.
Quincy,
This ticket carries 8 points in New York and the points will transfer to your Canadian license if you are from Quebec or Ontario. The fine is about $250 for this speeding ticket but you will also have to pay a $450 driver assessment fee. Even if you believe that you may be guilty, I strongly urge you to fight this ticket There is a good chance that you can avoid the $450 driver assessment fee as well as reduce (if not eliminate) the points.
Feel free to call us for a free consultation.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
Hi Mathew
I am an Australian living in NY. I have a car registered in NY but I do not have US drivers licence. I was pulled over for doign 57 in a 30 zone. I am most worried about my insurance going up, less worried about the fine. Should I go to court and plead not guilty in hope that the fine will be reduced or the office doesn’t turn up? What is the best excuse of pleading not guilty for something I was clearly guilty for!
Thanks
Georgie
Georgie,
We recommend that you plead not guilty. You’ll likely be offered a reduction if you are polite and advise that you’d like to avoid a trial. The prosecutor will likely make such an offer because proving their case at trial is time-consuming.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
I was pulled over for doing 73 in a 55 on I-590 right before Exit 1 to Winton Rd, Monroe Country (Brighton). I have my pre-trial conference today and I pleaded guilty a few weeks ago and wish to only have my speed reduced from 73 to something below 70, what can I do? Thanks.
Marcus,
At your conference, ask the prosecutor if he or she is willing to reduce the charge in exchange for you waiving your right to a trial. Dress neatly and be polite. I am confident that you will be offered a more favorable result.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for the reply Matthew, I’ll update this when I return from the conference.
I got the violation reduced to a 2-point non-speeding violation and slapped with a $110 fine (including surcharge).
I got pulled over yesterday doing 82 in a 55 on the Taconic pkwy. I am a sophomore in college and cannot afford to drive fast I am not from the area and was trying to help my brother who was in the passenger seat fix his seatbelt that was not unblocking on him. I know there were plenty of people in front of me doing 75+ and I know I was not doing 82mph. What do I do?
Adam,
You definitely should fight this speeding ticket. An 82/55 carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and surcharge plus a $300 driver assessment fee.
By fighting it, you will likely save points and the $300 driver assessment fee.
Feel free to call me if you have questions or want a free consultation
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I have no means of getting to the court date how can I fight it?
Got a ticket a few weeks ago in Broome County NY,79 in 65 though the ticket is now black and unreadable, I did notice before this, that the wrong license plate number was on the ticket. Could such a small error get it dropped? Trying to decide to fight it or not and how much I should expect to pay counsel vs the ticket. Thanks
NC Guy,
You MUST fight this speeding ticket. Under North Carolina General Statutes 20-16(a)(10) and 20-23, a NC license will be suspended for speeding over 75 mph or 17+ mph above the limit. This means your NC motorist will be suspended by NC if you are convicted of the Broome County speeding ticket.
Feel free to call us if you want a free consultation, or if you have further questions.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I got pulled over doing 80 in a 55, I thought it was a 65 first off so I was doing around 65 70 and had a guy tailgating me, so I sped up so I could change lanes and get him off my tail, and got pulled over, but if I knew if was a 55 I would have done 55 to 60 ’cause I’m very poor and can barley afford food let alone afford tickets, but I was wondering how much the ticket would be about and would it be worth talking to the DA about it? I’m in Broome county if that matter toward the price?
Calvin,
Broome County has strict plea bargaining guidelines. On an 80/55, they will reduce it to only a 70/55. This saves you 2 points and the $300 driver assessment fee. Therefore, you should definitely fight it.
Matthew Weiss
I got a ticket just a few days ago for doing 40 in a 30, when I was speeding up to 55. I got pulled over literally 5 feet from the 55 Mph sign. I got a ticket a few months ago for not changing my address with the dmv about 5 months ago, so does this mean that my insurance rates will most likely go up?
A 30/40 speeding ticket will not alone result in your auto insurance rates being raised.
If, however, you have other convictions or accidents on your record, then your rates can go up.
One way to avoid a hike (or even lower your rates) is to take a driver safety class. We recommend this particular class because they use professional comedians to keep it entertaining (and because we are given a small fee for those who sign up).
Matthew Weiss
Brooke,
A 40/30 speeding ticket carries 3 points. You should check with your insurance company but I would guess that these two tickets alone would not be enough to raise your rates.
Matthew Weiss
By resolved you mean taken advantage of and raped of almost $600…
I feel exactly the same. Same experience. The cop may as well have just pulled me over and robbed me. totally disgusting, really.
I wish I had known about this before I got a ticket in Sidney NY. Im a graduate student who earns well below the poverty line and I just got hit with this driver assessment BS after getting a ticket for going 21 mph over the speed limit. I was helping a friend move and I was driving her car. Now I’m totally broke bc of this. I highly recommend you to fight it! I haven’t had a single traffic violation since I was 18 which was 10yrs ago and that was a minor speeding ticket. I tried to explain that I was moving out of the way of a tailgating car and that didn’t matter I got hit with the full fine.
Mass Driver,
It seems like we are too late to help you as your case is already resolved.
Matthew Weiss
I received a ticket in NY (Verona) for going 21 mph over. The ticket does not state a fine price, but also does not say that I need to appear in court. How do I find out the ticket price? Also, if I have to mail the ticket in to get the fine price, will they MAIL it back to me? I am 20 years old and trying to resolve this without my parents finding out. The jerk also gave me a “changing lanes unsafely” ticket as if the 21 mph over the speed limit ticket wasn’t enough. I was just nervous and i did not change unsafely! Any idea how much these would cost? these tikcets are my first offenses ever. never had a traffic violation in my life. I live four hours away from where I recieved the ticket, so I don’t think it is worth it to go and fight it seeing as i would spend 100 dollars in gas money just to go there. What price am i looking at and how do I find out the ticket fines?
Driver,
Fines will be imposed after you plead guilty (assuming you decide not to fight this New York speeding ticket and unsafe lane change ticket). It will be roughly $200 for each ticket. Further, if you plead guilty, the NY DMV will bill you another $525 about 30 days later. This additional $525 fee is called the Driver Assessment Fee. Further, a NY conviction will transfer onto your MA license.
Therefore, I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight these tickets. It will almost definitely save you the $100 in gas. If you don’t have the time or desire to fight it yourself, then you can retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer who can appear without you.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Phas –
Can you share your experience? I am in the same boat as you, contemplating whether to plead not guilty. But like you said like to know what i am walking into.
Dean
My “Pre-Trial Conference” with the town court prosecutor is set for late July, at which time I presume the prosecutor and I negotiate for a lesser-point offense. (Any advice on this tactic is greatly appreciated.)
Would it be beneficial to explain my situation in hopes of illiciting a sympathetic response? (I am sure that would not work in a trial before the magistrate.) Really, I don’t know if I am supposed to change my plea to “no contest”, “guilty as charged” or what.
Thanks for the reply, Matt. Looks like it is a no-brainer to show for a court date. However, if I take the time off work to show and the officer isn’t there, it seems unfair to give him a second chance to show. That means two times out of my schedule…
So, it is ok to plead not guilty on the ticket and then change the plea at the court? I guess they first read off the initial ticket charge, ask for my plea, and I say not guilty? Then do they reduce it and ask again? Or do they offer the reduced charge first before asking for my plea? Sorry for so many questions; just want to know what I’m walking into so as to minimize how off guard I am caught.
I was stopped for a radar reading of 82 in a 65 on I-90 in Canaan, NY. This looks to be a 4-pointer, but is my first in New York State. I reside in MA and have one other speeding ticket about 2.5 years ago. I did not admit to speeding this recent time, it was around 11pm at night, dry road conditions, light traffic. Both the officer and I were cordial during the stop.
Is it worth showing up to a court date? I really don’t see that I have any defense, but I heard that showing up and pleading no contest can sometimes reduce the fine/points. Is this true or will I probably be getting the full fine anyway? Also, if the ticketing officer (NY State Police) does not show up, is the fine really dismissed? What are those chances? I would estimate the full fine to be around $225 including surcharge, correct?
Many thanks in advance.
Phas,
If you plead not guilty and show up, you will very likely be offered a reduced offense in exchange changing your plea to guilty to the lesser charge. The fine will remain roughly the same (around $200).
If the officer does not show for a trial, the court may dismiss it or may give the officer another chance to appear.
Matthew Weiss
I got a ticket in Ontario County, NY. Im not a US citizen, im on vacation in US and i have to return to my country in 4 days. I was driving a rented car, Do you have some advices on how to proceed with the ticket ?
Thanks
Edgar,
What country are you from? Most likely, you should just pay the ticket rather than hiring a traffic lawyer to fight it.
What is the price for traffic ticket in Essex County in New York State number 1114-A with have this description: FLD DUE CARE FOR EMERG VEH STOPPED OR STANDING. Excuse me for my bad english and thank you very much.
Diane,
This is a 3-point ticket and carries roughly a $150 fine. If you have any other tickets on your record within the last 36 months, then it is very much worth fighting for insurance rate purposes, among other reasons. If you want to discuss fighting it, feel free to call for a free consultition.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
It is never fun to get a speeding ticket. I hate that sinking feeling when you look in your rear view mirror and see the flashing lights. To add insult to injury, while you are waiting for the kind officer to present your ticket, you have all the motorists glaring at you as you sink in your seat! I have always found it is best to drive safe and obey traffic laws but when you do something wrong and get caught, I always suggest calling a lawyer who specializes in tickets!
Driving Safety,
Good advice. We also encourage people to call us for a free consultation. It is better to know the facts than guess. Often, we recommend NOT hiring an attorney as we pride ourselves on being candid with our clients (and prospective clients).
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
888 Red Light, this is why I recommend hiring your firm when there is a ticket. The cost of the attorney and the knowledge you bring to help the client is cheaper then paying for the ticket & the insurance company finding out about points; thus surcharging. Most of all I appreciate the honesty your firm gives when you call and ask for experience in specific speeding ticket situations.
Great article