Should I worry about my first speeding ticket?
Yes. A first speeding ticket in New York can add DMV points, increase insurance premiums, and trigger a fine plus mandatory surcharges.
Higher speeds over the limit create higher points and a greater suspension risk Specifically, a speeding conviction 1 to 10 is 3 points, 11 to 20 mph over is 4 points, 21 to 30 over is 6 points, 31 to 40 mph over is 8 points, and 41+ is 11 points. Plus 6 or more points triggers a NYS Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee. A guilty plea is a conviction, so pleading not guilty preserves the chance of a more favorable outcome.
Key Things to Know:
- Higher speeds over the limit create higher points and a greater suspension risk Specifically, a speeding conviction 1 to 10 is 3 points, 11 to 20 mph over is 4 points, 21 to 30 over is 6 points, 31 to 40 mph over is 8 points, and 41+ is 11 points
- Plus 6 or more points triggers a NYS Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee
- A guilty plea is a conviction, so pleading not guilty preserves the chance of a more favorable outcome
The right next step depends on the court, the facts, and the driver's record, so it helps to review the ticket before deciding how to proceed.