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
888-
I have an interesting case. (I have a Florida license)
In Lake George I got stopped doing 88 in a 65. The very next day I got stopped in Albany for 75 in a 55 Work Zone. Both occasions the stop was routine & polite if that matters.
90% of the time I go to court to atleast appear if not fight a ticket and then get a plea deal either way. My first question is if NY Violations transpire to a FL drivers license and secondly, if NY doesnt affect a FL License I feel that going to court will backfire on me since I have 2 consecutive charges of the same offense within 2 days one of which being in a work zone. Im thinking of just paying the fines.
Let me know your thoughts and thank you for your time.
CB,
A NY conviction WILL transfer onto your Florida license. You, therefore, should fight these two speeding tickets.
The fact that you have two back-to-back cases shouldn’t be an issue if you are resolve them close in time.
Matthew Weiss
Wow, I am impressed with your blog. Not only is there a wealth of information but how you patiently help each person’s situation is very impressive. Thank you for doing this. I will certainly know where to look for a traffic lawyer, if I ever need one!
However, I’m writing on behalf of my son who received his first (and hopefully his last) speeding ticket this afternoon in the Town of Beekman, NY. (Dutchess County). He was clocked at 67 in a 55 zone. According to all that I have read, he should plead not guilty…which seems wrong as he knows he was over 60 mph. But if he pleads guilty, he can’t bargain for a lesser “punishment”…correct?
My other question was about Beekman Town Court. Are they open to plea bargains particularly with a driver who has a clean record? Do you know if he will have the opportunity to conference before seeing the judge?
Melissa V,
Thanks for your nice praise.
Your son should plead not guilty. This is the only way for him to strike a plea bargain. He will have an opportunity to conference the case before seeing the judge and his otherwise clean record should help him make a favorable deal.
Good luck to him.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I got pulled over in Nassau County portion of I-495. Officer gave me a speed ticket 72/55 and another ticket for non-distinctive plate. First of all, I was on my way to sell my car this is the reason I removed my plates and put them on a rear window. They are absolutely clearly visible even from remote distances. Also, I saw his car was entering the highway and I checked my odometer and my speed was 68. I then reduced my speed to 60 and got pulled over. He initially claimed my speed was 75 and I sharply refused and asked him for proof. He gave me 72/55 speed ticket and indicated as “pace”. I am definitely going to fight for this.
My question is if I show up to the court what is the likelihood of case dismissal even the officer shows up. Also, what is the approximate fine including surcharges for speed ticket?
Baha,
Unless you ask for a trial, the officer’s attendance is irrelevant. If you ask for trial, then the police officer will be give one (or two) opportunities to appear. Only if he doesn’t appear at those opportunities will your case be dismissed.
The approximate fine for the speeding ticket is roughly $275 in this court.
Matthew Weiss
I’m a MA resident who, with a relatively clean license (I have three points from a previous infraction from about 4 or 5 years ago, i failed to yield left thus causing an accident) was stopped on I 90 on Friday night heading to Clinton, New York. The police officer cited me with two tickets: the first was speeding, 111MPH in a 65MPH zone and the second unsafely switching lanes. Prior to being stopped, the police officer had informed me that an off-duty cop, driving along side me for quite sometime, had marked my car for speeding.
Should I fight the ticket or plead guilty? And if so, what are possible outcomes?
Jay,
I highly recommend that you fight these tickets. Points from a NY conviction WILL transfer onto your MA license and NY (and MA) can suspend you for these tickets. Given the seriousness of the charges, I recommend that you consult with (if not hire) an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I got a speeding ticket of 75mph in a 65mph on I-87 North in Athens, NY.
-I was behind a truck in the right hand lane and sped up to pass it on the left. No sooner did I pass it that I was pulled over.
I don’t want to plead guilty because I really don’t wanna pay a fine and have points on my license. [And this is my first ticket] But I live in Boston and also don’t want to drive three hours for court.
-Any recommendations on what to do.
Thanks
Emily
Emily,
If you do not want to travel to the court, then you can hire a NY traffic ticket lawyer to be appear for you. Because a NY conviction WILL transfer onto your MA license, this might be your best bet.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
My husband and I were on our way to Toronto and received a speeding ticket in Lewiston, NY for going 71mph in a 55mph. We didnt realize the zone was a 55mph one and thought it was 65mph zone. In any case, my husband was driving my car which has a california license plate. The registeration had expired and we didnt realize it because the I moved to New York state a couple of months ago and I didnt receive a renewal notice from the california DMV. The cop gave us a ticket for unregistered vehicle. What is the next step should I register the vehicle in New York State? How can I get this ticket dismissed so it wont go on my husbands driving record??
PLEASE HELP
THanks so much
Nora,
Actually, the speeding ticket is much more serious than the un-registered ticket. The speeding ticket carries points and will transfer onto your license in California (I’m assuming from your post that you are licensed there). My advice would be to plead not guilty to both tickets. If you do, you (or your NY traffic lawyer) can likely negotiate this down to a more favorable outcome.
Matthew Weiss
Hey, on 11/5/12 at 12:30 AM, I received a speeding ticket on SR 201 South in Vestal (Broome County). It’s listed as a “speed in zone” (65 mph in a 45 mph zone). I was driving from NYC back to school (BU) and I just stayed the same speed the whole way (didn’t realize that the speed limit changed). Should I mail this ticket in not guilty? It says to do so within 48 hours, but that time has passed. Should I request a supporting deposition? What fine and points am I looking at for this infraction? What should I expect in court?
Thank You!
Andrew,
You should plead not guilty right away. If you do, you likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge.
My best guess is that you can get this reduced down to 2 or 3 points and a $200 fine.
Matthew Weiss
I really appreciate the advice. Should I request a supporting deposition? Thanks
Andrew,
If you weren’t given one during the car stop, then you can request it. If you don’t get one within 30 days of your request, then you can move to dismiss your case. On the other hand, some prosecutors will make a less favorable plea offer for those who ask for one.
Your call.
Matthew Weiss
Just received a speeding ticket in Monroe County, Rochester NY. Radar, doing 67 in a 40. Also received a Supporting Deposition with the ticket. What should I do, and what kind of cost am I looking at?
Justin,
Plead not guilty. This is the only way to possibly save points and money.
Matthew Weiss
I just got a 74 in a 55 work zone ticket today in Fenton, NY. I am from WV and am working in the area. I was passing a very slow driver before the work zone, did not know I was already in the work zone. My ticket was accompanied by a Supporting Deposition from the officer. It stated at the bottom; To the Above Named Defendant:
my quote to the officer at the time when asked if I know why I pulled you over, “yeah, I was just trying to pass that guy before the construction zone”. I do not contest the speed and my statement to me shows I was not aware. I can return for the court date, any advice? Thanks
Michael,
Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your West Virginia license, we recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this 4-point NY ticket. If you do, you can likely save points and money. BTW, in NY, the fines double for a work zone speeding ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I was stopped on I-88 in Afton, NY. I was going 84 where the speed limit is 65 miles per hour. What is this going to mean?
He told me I had until the 19th to answer, but this morning, 4 days later, I read the ticket and it says 48 hours to mail out a “not guilty” plea.
What do I do? Can I just show up in Court and plea my case or du I have to mail it in?
I think this carries 4 points, what are my chances of reducing that?
Thank you, I am so confused. I have never had a speeding ticket before. I did get 2 points for cell phone in march of 2011, but since they stay for 18 months they should be gone by now. Thank you for your time.
Liza
Liza,
This speeding ticket carries 4 points and roughly a $200 fine. It can also affect your auto insurance rates. We, therefore, recommend that you plead not guilty and fight it. If you do, you likely can save points and avoid an insurance hike.
You should plead not guilty as soon as possible using some type of delivery confirmation. You can also call the court and let them know that your not guilty plea is en route.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding in a school zone ticket (37 in a 20mph). First ticket in over 5 years. I honestly was not in a hurry and actually following a school bus doing the same speed. Should I plead not guilty to reduce points and fines? or will the judge disregard due to a school zone?
Krystal,
I recommend that you plead not guilty. This would be the only possible way to try and save points and the fine.
Matthew Weiss
I just received a ticket for going 47 in a 30 zone in Amherst, NY (Erie County). I was obviously speeding, but can I still plead not guilt? Do you know what the fine will be?
Kate,
Yes, plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save points and avoid an insurance hike.
Matthew Weiss
I was driving 93 on 55mph hwy, what are my chances for me to dispute this matter?It is my first offense
Gino,
How you fight this speeding ticket varies from court-to-court. However, the short answer is “yes”, you can and should plead not guilty and fight this ticket. Pleading not guilty is the only way to possibly obtain a more favorable outcome.
Matthew Weiss
What are my best options? Should I get a lawyer? and Does the judge take into account that your served in the military?. and if Im looking to dispute this matter myself, what are my risks?
Gino,
As I previously responded, “How you fight this speeding ticket varies from court-to-court.” A NY traffic lawyer can be very helpful to someone fighting a ticket especially for those who do not want to go to court (or cannot make it). Of course, you can fight this yourself too. The only likely risk of defending yourself is that you don’t get as favorable a result as that which an experienced traffic lawyer can obtain.
Your service in the military unfortunately will have no bearing on your ability to beat this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Gday Matt
Im from Australia and was driving a rental car through New York State.
I was picked up doing 82 in a 65 zone.
I hadnt seen any sign posted speed zones, and we use km/h here not miles. So I just assumed I was driving a safe speed as I was travelling amongst other traffic. The police officer picked me out of the bunch fo cars (bad luck on my account).
This happened in late July, and I have since lost the ticket in my travels.
Ive just returned to Australia and remembered about it. We have a totally different system here so I am unsure how to finalise it.
I know this ticket wont affect my Australian licence, but I would like to travel to USA again one day and Id rather not be surprised on arrival by homeland security with a record of this.
What can you recommend for this situation?
Any advice/guidance will be greatly appreciated.
Zac
Zac,
Do you know where you received the speeding ticket? If so, you can call the court, and get a new copy of the ticket and plead guilty. If not, on my website is a directory of New York traffic courts. Hopefully, you can narrow down the court inquiry based on where you were located when you got the ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I am a Florida resident currently caring for my mother in NY before I return in November… I was driving on 81-South in Onondaga county when traffic was going to prevent me from making my exit (between the Liverpool, destiny USA, and thruway exits all in the same area) so I accelerated to make my exit… A state trooper clocked me at 84 in a 65. It does not say how much my fine would be. Since I will not be leaving until late November is it possible to try and reduce a fine? How much would the full fee and points be? How will affect my Florida license? I am under 25 with already ridiculously expensive insurance… How much would my rate go up or how could I avoid a rate increase? I have an immaculate record and have no prior offenses. What should I do?
Susan,
A NY speeding conviction WILL transfer onto your Florida license. Therefore, you should fight this speeding ticket. If you do, then you likely can get this reduced to a less serious charge. The fine will be roughly $200.
If you cannot resolve this before you return to Florida, then you can retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Dear Matthew,
Thank you for your site and information. I was returning from 40th High School Reunion and was ticketed for speeding 62 in what I thought was a 50 mph area of Bedford, NY on Sunday morning 1 a.m.
I live in Arizona and was returning to my dad’s home. I do not intend to return until the summer. The office who was kind, felt badly giving the ticked instead of the warning and suggested that I try to go to court on Monday since I will return home and not be here for 11/1 court date.
What do you suggest?
I have no prior speeding record.
Only drink water (thankfully… ) and was so tired that I just wanted to get home and their wasn’t enough light to even see the road, left alone the signs as I had to keep switching for my bright lights.
Thank you.
Barbara,
Thanks for your kind remarks. Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your Arizona license, I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you cannot appear in court, then you can hire a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mathew,
On sunday night, I got pulled over on I87 SB between Lake george & albany for doing 81 mph in 65 zone. I was in right most lane and trying to pass a car. Unfortunately before slowing down into middle lane, officer took radar readings and pulled me over. I tried to explain same to him but he said there was nobody around me to pass. I didn’t argue.I never had speeding ticket before & I’ve also completed defensive driving course. Do you think, I should fight ticket or just pay the fine?
Pushkar,
You should plead not guilty and fight this NY speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hi
I got a ticket on Highway i 90 west . I was doing 92 in65 zone. Office mentioned that I was doing 89 but he wrote 92 in the ticket and also wrote verified by Radar.
I called the Burtus court and told her I am from Canada -ONTARIO and asked for my options. lady told me to mail the document back and plea not guilty. I asked her for reduction or some sort of bargain.She asked me either you can have reduction form (and she ask me to write that troper wrote 92 instead of 89 & you need reduction form while sending back not guilty)or pre trial set up. Is it a good idea to write or make any comments in ticket and ask for reduction form or they should give me automatically ?
Is Burtus town court under tvb?
If its not under tvb then instead of reducing points . can i ask them to plea bargain for parking tickets instead?
Please let me know.
My happing ending is to have it convert to parking ticket. Please advice
Jeff,
Brutus Town Court is not part of the TVB. I doubt they will plea bargain this down to a parking ticket, however.
Ask for the reduction form and see what they offer. I’d predict that you’ll be offered a lesser speeding charge.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hi they have sent me a form?
I was wondering if you can recommend me some golden words I can use in Reason( why you think the charge should be reduced?) so that it can be reduced or withdrwan
Jeff,
There are no golden words as each case is fact-sensitive. If you have an otherwise clean record, this is something that you surely should point out. If the violation occurred late at night, that somewhat mitigates it.
On your court date, dress respectable and be polite. This helps too.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Yesterday I was pulled over for going 48 in a 30 zone in Greene, NY. As the town was ending, I saw the 55 sign and started to accelerate. I am pretty sure I was going between 40 and 45. I received an earlier ticket for going 55 in a 45 zone either this year or the year before also in a small town in NY. I didn’t contest that one and paid the almost $200 fine. Before that, I have never had a ticket in over 25 years of driving and I am 50+! I am inclined to fighting this one. What would you suggest? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Linus,
Definitely fight it. If you do, you or your NY traffic lawyer likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge. The ticket (48/30) carries 4 points and roughly a $200 fine. Plus, if you end up with a total of 6 (or more) points within 18 months, then you’ll have to pay a $300 or more Driver Assessment Fee.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I appreciate your quick response. How can I go about retaining an attorney and how much will it cost me versus the fines expected? Thanks.
Linus,
Call me to discuss. I’m happy to provide a free consultation. A traffic lawyer will charge roughly between $400 and $650.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I was pulled over today going 74 in a 55 in Broome County, town of Lisle. The cop clocked me at 79 but only marked it down as 74. Will that matter one way or the other??
I was also pulled over in March for doing 89 in a 65 and I paid the $235 ticket along with the $300 fee. What is the best advice for how to handle this ticket. I am from MA and would not be able to make the 6 hr drive for the court date. Is it worth fighting this? Also what does this mean for my driving record since I have now received so many points in a 7 month period.
MA Driver,
A NY conviction for speeding WILL transfer onto your MA license. Therefore you should definitely plead not guilty and fight this ticket. Further, because you already have 6 NY points from your NY speeding ticket from March, you have to be careful. At 11 points, you can be suspended and a NY suspension will transfer to MA. By the way, the “roadside” reduction from 79 to 74 may prevent you from get a further plea bargain but, in your case, you MUST try. Pleading guilty is the wrong thing to do.
To avoid driving 6 hours and, more importantly, to maximize your chance of avoiding a suspension, I highly recommend that you retain an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
what are the odds of getting a suspended license with 10 pts on your record?
Also, would I be better off trying to re-open my ticket from March and fight that one instead of trying to fight this?
MA Driver,
They are very low.
Matthew Weiss
Is it possible to re-open my previous ticket from March. I pleaded guilty because I assumed it wouldnt be an issue for me. But now that I have another ticket the previous 6 points on my record really hurt me. What can I do about this
MA Driver,
It is possible to get it re-opened. Some courts are more lenient that others when it comes to re-opening. A formal motion will have to be made called a Writ of Corum Nobis.
Feel free to call me if you’d like to discuss this procedure.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
This morning I got my first speeding ticket-EVER-70/55 in Rochester NY. Had a spotless record til this morning. 🙁 Since I have no violations should I even bother to fight it or just pay the fee? Thanks for your help!!
Seaweede,
Is your case returnable at the Rochester Traffic Violations Bureau. If so, it is really hard to win in this court. This court does NOT plea bargain.
Otherwise, you should plead not guilty and negotiate a reduction to a less serious charge.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
Love your website; so much useful info! I got a speeding ticket 2 days ago on Palisades Interstate Parkway in Rockland County, NY. The cop said he clocked me at 76 in 50mph zone, but I checked my speed as soon as I saw his car and it was 71. When he gave me the ticket he said he dropped it to 60mph since my record is clean. Should I try to fight it or just pay the fine (and what would it be)? Will my insurance go up if I plea guilty? I already took defensive driving course over a year ago to reduce my premium.
Deric,
Thanks for the nice praise.
If you have an otherwise clean record (no accidents or other convictions), then pleading guilty to a 60/50 speeding ticket will not affect your insurance rates. Of course, if you were to get another conviction, then a conviction to this ticket could affect your rates.
Because the officer already gave you a “break”, it is not likely that you’ll get a further one. Of course, ultimately, you’ll have to decide if you want to fight it (or not).
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
I kind of thought so, just wanted to make sure. Thanks again, Matthew.
Hi Matthew,
First, thank you for being the guiding light we need in these situations.
I am from NJ and received a “Disobeying a traffic control device” ticket on I87, Clinton County, Chazy Town court. I was clocked at 80 / 65 pacing an SUV but as I drive a 370Z I’m used to being the target, and I was speeding, I have no problem with the summons.
Clinton County allows plea bargain by mail
When any moving violation transfers to NJ it is assessed 2 points. I could be 5 over or 100 over and it doesn’t matter [the way I understand it]. I just dropped 3 points but am trying to avoid adding 2, I still have 3 to drop.
Are there any options in Clinton county to reduce a “moving violation” such as Disobeying a traffic control device, to a “non-moving” violation that will not be assessed any points when transferred to NJ? Cost is not an issue, the points are.
Thank you again for all you have assisted.
Rich,
If you can convince the prosecutor to drop your case to a violation of Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1175 (obstructing an intersection), then 0 points would transfer to NJ. Alternatively,a 3-point cell phone ticket will transfer as 0 points to NY. The reason that these two violations do not transfer as points to NJ is because NJ does not ascribe points to them had they occurred in NJ.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks so much for the reply.
In your expert opinion, would I be better specifically asking for that alternative violation thru the mail in application, stating it was “advised”, or, would I be better hiring an attorney to handle this in person?
Rich,
Because the officer already gave you a “break”, I don’t think it is likely that you’ll get a further “break”. Further, you risk the charge being amended back to a speed.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
You got a great site. I was pulled over going 87/65 on the I-90 in Upstate NY. I have a NJ License so only 2 points will transfer. I also have the ability to get a new Canadian license since I’m Canadian, and I got my NJ license while in school there. I believe the new license won’t have any points, is that correct? Do you think it’s worth pleading guilty and not worrying about the points? What am I looking at in regards to fines, future insurance costs?
Thanx in advance
Charles,
You should plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save NY points as well as the $300 Driver Assessment Fee. Further, if you transfer your license to Quebec or Ontario, a NY conviction will transfer, providing another reason to fight. Finally, if you maintain you NJ license, it is possible that you or your NY traffic lawyer can get this case reduced to something that will NOT transfer as points onto your NJ license.
Matthew Weiss
Got pulled over doing 82 downhill on the 1 7 (65mph) then as I pulled over to let him get me there was a second cop with some one else so he gave me a second ticket for failing to move over to the left lane. Is this with fighting? I’m from pa so he said the points won’t transfer…
Yosef,
Convictions to these traffic tickets will NOT transfer but will be reported to PA (and therefore can affect your PA insurance rates). Further, if you fight these tickets, you will be subject to a $375 Driver Assessment Fee. If you fight them, you likely avoid this extra fee and can save NY points.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I found this very informative and thank you for it. My husband was pulled over in I-90 for going 81 in a 65 in the Cayuga county. We were on vacation his license is from Puerto Rico and the car was rented. It is his first ticket in NY. Are the points transferable? What he should do? Plead guilty and pay the fine, from what I read he will not have to pay the Driver Assessment fee.
Again, thanks for any advise you could give me.
Heidi,
I don’t know if a NY conviction transfer to Puerto Rico. You should check with a traffic lawyer down there. Either way, you will NOT have to pay a Driver Assessment Fee from this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
I am a PA driver that was traveling through Buffalo NY on I-90. I was FOLLOWING a state police officer going 75 in a 55. He then proceeded to change lanes, rapidly slow down and immediately pulled me over. I feel entrapped however I would very much appreciate any advise on how best to proceed? Swallow my pride and plead guilty or fight it. I fear fighting it will cost me a day from work, gas money to travel 4 hours to court and still risk being found guilty.
Brandon,
The good news is that points from a NY conviction will NOT transfer onto your PA license. It will be reported to the PA DMV so it can affect your insurance rates, however. Contact your insurance company to find out what, if any, impact a conviction will have on your license.
If you fight it, you will likely be able to get this case reduced to a less serious charge. You can hire a NY traffic lawyer so you won’t have to appear in court.
Matthew Weiss
Dear Matt:
I received a speeding ticket on I684 for going 85 in a 65. I entered the left lane to pass a couple of vehicles slowing down in the middle lane. This is my first offense in over 10 years, and my first in NY state. I did not admit to speeding to the officer, because I honestly did not know how fast I was driving. Bedford Town Court is handling this matter. From the posts I read above, it seems that I should plead not guilty. Even the officer suggested that many people plead not guilty and ask for a lighter sentence. The appearance date is 10/25 at 8 PM; there are hearings / meetings that late?
Also, if given even a reduced sentence (3 points, let’s say), would it be worth my while to take a Driver’s Safety test for the point reduction? Will I be able to prevent a insurance rate hike with a Driver’s Safety test?
Thanks in advance for the help.
TJ,
Yes, the Bedford Town Court does have night sessions that start around 8 pm.
In regard to your insurance, if you plead not guilty and get a reduction, then it will likely avoid an insurance hike. I wrote an article entitled “How Traffic Tickets Affect Auto Insurance Rates” which provide more details.
Finally, don’t take the Driver Safety Class until you resolve this case. In my opinion, you generally want to take this class when you have 4 points on your record and, in your case, you likely won’t end up with that many.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for the help with my NY speeding ticket, Matt.
Hi Matt:
Great site. I have a NY license. I was pulled over on I87 North for going 84 in 65 zone in the Saratoga county. But the officer put 74 on the ticket saying this was my first speeding violation and otherwise my driving record is clean. If I plead guilty I will get 3 points. How much penalty I will be paying if I plead guilty? Since I was only 9 miles over and this was my first speeding violation, do you think I should plead not guilty? Should I also attach a letter to the ticket (of not guilty) explaining why I was speeding? Saratoga is 4 hours from where I live and not really easy for me to appear in the court.
John,
Thanks for your kind remarks about my blog. I never get tired of hearing from appreciative readers.
The officer gave you what we call a “roadside plea”. That is, he reduced your ticket on the spot. If you plead not guilty, the prosecutor could amend the charge back up to the original 84/65. Even if it wasn’t amended upward, it is unlikely that you’ll get a further break.
The fine for a basic speeding ticket is roughly $200.
Matthew Weiss
Sir,
I live in Markham, Ontario, Canada. I am a senior citizen and a pensioner. Received a Traffic Ticket 0n Sept. 14, 2012 @ I81 ( Courtlandville )- 83mph /65 zone. Please let me know if you agree with the following approach;
1. Sign Plea of Guilty.
2. Under statement of explanation, explain my confusion between the speedometer with primary #s in KM v/s Miles and request for leniency.
3. Write a short letter to Asst. DA admitting the error, explain the personal situation and request leniency.
Much appreciate your feed back for this approach including if you think that I need to retain professional help for this traffic violation.
Thanks in advance for your time.
Shashi Taylor
Shashi,
1. Sign Plea of Guilty. No, plead not guilty.
2. Under statement of explanation, explain my confusion between the speedometer with primary #s in KM v/s Miles and request for leniency. No, do not give an explanation. Leave this section blank.
3. Write a short letter to Asst. DA admitting the error, explain the personal situation and request leniency. No, see response to 2 above.
When you plead not guilty. you will be given a court date where you can negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge.
Matthew Weiss
This past spring I got my 1st speeding ticket in 30+ years. 72 in a 55 it was reduced to failure to stop with I think 1 point (my speedometer wasn’t working, in fact when I got pulled over I showed the trooper that speedometer said I was doing 75).
Yesterday I was doing 68 in a 55., had a loaner car from dealership and was trying to figure out cruise control – and yes I should have pulled over to do that Up here in the Catskills there is a discretionary 15mph leeway. Initially he went by, but eventually turned around. He had a “ride-along” so I knew there was no way out. Should I plead not guilty, or because it has been less than a year would that be futile? THanks
Pat,
A stop sign ticket carries 3 points. Your new speeding ticket carries 4 points (68/55) and will subject you to a $375 Driver Assessment Fee (taking into account your prior 3 points). Therefore, we recommend that you fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can save points and money.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I live in California and got a speeding ticket in NY on Hwy 390, going 93/65.
It’s my first speeding ticket and I’m not familiar with how new York works with that.I have three questions:
1. Should i plead not guilty?
2. Do points transfer from NY to California?
3.How much will the fine be?
Thanks!
Sourabh,
Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your California license, I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this NY speeding ticket. If you plead guilty, the fine will be roughly $200 plus the $300 Driver Assessment Fee. If you plead not guilty, you likely can save points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for the answer. Do i need to hire an attorney for this or i can do it online by myself?
If i hire an attorney, how much they going to charge for handling till the very end?
Sourabh,
You most very likely cannot handle this ticket “online”. Outside the Traffic Violations Bureau, there are very few courts that resolve cases online. You may want to hire a NY traffic lawyer but, at the least, should consult with one. Traffic lawyers roughly charge between $400 and $700 for one ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I received a speeding ticket today for 60 in a 45 in Onondaga County. This is my second ticket ever, however my first ticket (82 in a 65 in Tully, NY) was back at the beginning of last December and was reduced to a less charge. It’s only been about a 9-months span between tickets. That ticket was reduced, after I initially pleaded not guilty, and I don’t believe I received any points for it. What is your recommended course of action in this situation? If I were to get another ticket at this point, will I face a license suspension? Thank you very much.
Frank David,
I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can save points and possibly avoid the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
Thank you for your reply. Would you suggest I hire a lawyer to handle this ticket, or should I be okay handling it on my own? Any idea how much the fine might be? Is the $300 driver assessment fee only levied if you have 6 points or more in an 18-month span?
Thank you
Frank,
Yes, the Driver Assessment Fee is only levied if you have 6 points or more in an 18-month span. It is $300 for 6 points and $75 for every points above 6. The fine for such tickets are around $200.
At the very least, you should consult with a NY traffic lawyer about your ticket. Feel free to contact our firm at 212-683-7373.
Thank you
Thank you so much for this wonderful resource. I am a NJ residence and got a ticket in on 87 in Albany for going 73 in a 55mph WORK ZONE! I told the cop “i thought I was going around 63 and didnt realize that the limit had dropped in workzone” and he wrote that on the ticket . What do you recommend I do? Thanks for your advice.
Dana Gordon,
Thanks so much for your kind remarks.
You should plead not guilty to your work zone speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can save NY points and fine money. On your court date, you (or your NY traffic ticket lawyer) can likely work out a plea bargain to a less serious charge.
BTW, most NY moving violation convictions transfer as 2 points onto your NJ license.
Matthew Weiss
Hi –
I’m looking for some advice. I was charged with going 76 mph in a 45 mph construction zone area on taconic state parkway in ny. Is there any point in pleading not guilty? Or do you think I should just pay the fines. The police officer told me that if I plead guilty I’ll just pay a fine. nothing about points.
Thanks
Mary,
I highly recommend that you plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save points and money.
This speeding ticket carries 8 points and, therefore, is quite serious. Further, fines are double within a work zone.
Matthew Weiss
Hi, I received a ticket for going 89 in a 65…it says he got me on laser but I really don’t think I was going 89. What do I do? I mean I think I should fight it and all but how and what do I say? It was in the Utica Rome area. Can I minimize my fine and/or get it expunged from my record? It’s my first speeding ticket and I’m not familiar with how new York works with that. Do I mail in the not guilty slip and then show up or do I just show up to the court date? Or do I mail in the guilty slip. Any help would be much appreciated I’m a poor college kid that was late to class.
Maine Driver,
I recommend that you plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge saving you points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
I was fined 2 years ago close to New York city for exceeding speed limits (73 on a 55 zone).
After my mail (i was guilty) to the Court I didn’t received any answer. Maybe a bad post service?
What kind of trouble could i have with the immigration coming back in N.Y. as a tourist next month? I have done the ESTA without problems.
Thanks and compliments for the blog!
Fernando,
From what you describe, there is a good chance that your privilege to drive in New York is suspended. It is also possible that the court issued a warrant for your arrest. I recommend that you (or your NY traffic ticket lawyer) contact the court and clear this issue up.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I received a ticket for driving 70 in a 55 area (Highway 33 near Buffalo). I was driving a rental car and unfortunately the court date is set for a date that I will not be in Buffalo anymore. In addition, this was my very 1st ticket ever. My driver’s license is from Texas.
Should I just plead guilty since I cannot make the court date? Do I have any other options?
Thank you
Philip,
I recommend that you fight this ticket because a NY conviction will transfer onto your Texas license. If you cannot make it, then you can retain a NY traffic lawyer who can appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I really need some help. I have received three tickets in the past month. Two speeding tickets and one ticket for running a stop sign. I was going 73 in a 50 in both speeding tickets and they both happened on grand central pkwy in NYC. I really need my license because I have to get back and forth to school. I go to Hofstra Law and I commute from Manhattan everyday. Both times I needed to go pick my daughter up from the sitter to take her to therapy. I know this is not an excuse, but I really need this to get resolved. i absolutely cannot afford to have an increased insurance premium and as I mentioned before, I really, really, need my license. Please help! what should I do???
Cynthia,
Simply stated, you need to fight all 3 of these tickets. You are facing 15 points, hefty fines and fees as well as a possible suspension. Given the seriousness of your situation, I recommend that you consult with an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer (if not hire one).
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mr. Weiss,
I got pulled over today for driving 56 in a 40 zone in Orchard Park, NY. I was travelling that fast because I was passing an erratic driver that I didn’t feel confortable being behind, and was allowing my car to coast back to an appropriate speed when the officer saw me. The officer himself mentioned pleaing not guilty and stated that he was mostly out there to curb speeding before school starts. I only have one other ticket on my record, from about two years ago when I accidentally ran a red light (which I plead guitly to).
My question is, should I fight this ticket? I admit I was speeding, but only because I didn’t feel safe behind the driver I passed.
As well, I’ve been told I’d be required to attend traffic school if I plead not guilty. Is that true, or is it based on the plea agreement?
Thanks,
Ryan
Ryan,
I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can save points and avoid an insurance hike. Sometimes, the court will require the Driver Safety Class as part of a plea deal but usually this is not a requirement.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
I was pulled over on the Taconic in Columbia County. The officer told me I was doing 77 in a 55. He wrote me a ticket for 74 in a 55, verified by radar. This is the first time I’ve ever received a ticket. In the supporting deposition, he wrote down my statement that “I didn’t realize how fast I was going.” Should I consider this reduction from 77 to 74 (6 pts to 4 pts) a “roadside plea” and not expect any further reduction? The officer told me, after issuing me the ticket, that I could talk to the D.A. to “try to work something out.”
Thanks,
Matt
Matt,
You did get a “roadside plea” but, based on the officer’s statement you may want to try to get a further reduction.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
i had a ticket in NY state for speed limits and the Court (I plead guilty) gave me a fine of 210$. They ask for a credit card payment (Visa or Mastercard) but I’ve only Amex
In the letter a received is written that if money is not received by the date of 09/26/12
my driver licence will be suspended.
I am not sure to have time to mail in time with a new credit card (I’m from Italy).
What am i going to risk for a late arrival? And if i can’t pay? Will i have problems if i decide to come back in USA in the future?
Thank you
Alberto
Alberto,
Call the court and ask for an extension of time to pay. That should solve your problem.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for the answer. I’ve found a friend that can help me with his MasterCard.
Have I just to fill with the Credit Card data the letter I received and send it by mail to the Court to pay the fine? It says to include a self addressed stamped envelope to have a receipt, but how can i find US stamps here in Italy?
Thanks a lot
Alberto
Alberto,
Go to the post office there. You don’t need US stamps. Only enough Italian stamps to get it to the US.
Matthew Weiss
I just wanted to thank you for advising to fight my father’s ticket. In Sullivan County, we had to go to a court that is in the basement of a senior citizen’s center. We made a mistake and couldn’t read the ticket so we hadn’t submitted a plea. They were nice and saw us anyway. We didn’t even have to ask for leniency. They reduced a 17 mph over speeding ticket to a $150 parking ticket. We were very nice the whole time. The person in front of us had to pay $450 and I’m sure it is because she was full of attitude.
Thank you!
Aimee,
Thanks for circling back. I’m so glad that my advice helped you with defending your traffic ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
I was pulled over this weekend for doing 57 in a 40. I am a Maine resident, and thought that I was on a highway–the code given on the ticket says that I was on a “restricted highway.” How will this affect me?
Thanks,
Steve
Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your Maine license, I recommend that you fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can get this reduced to a less serious charge.
The “restricted highway” language doesn’t mean anything. This NY speeding ticket carries 4 points.
Matthew Weiss
Hi matt, last week i got pulled over on the west side highway, just north of the gwb. I was going the speed of traffic around me but got ticketed for going 64 in a 35. This is 6 points and a minimum fine of $195. Are there really benefits to pleading not guilty? Will i have to go to a ‘pre-trial’ and a court date? Do you know how long this process usually takes in nyc (i am assuming i will have to go to court there?)?. And do you know how much 6 points affects your insurance?. Thanks!
Kristin,
If you are convicted, then you will be given 6 points, roughly a $200 fine, a $300 Driver Assessment Fee and likely insurance hike. There is no plea bargaining in NYC. You either win or lose. Winning a speeding ticket is NYC is very tough but not impossible. The process generally takes 3 to 12 months.
I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” which should be very helpful to you.
Matthew Weiss
Last weekend on my long drive to Canada from Virginia, I received two NY tickets at the same time: a speeding ticket 90 in a 65 in Cohocton, Town of -5158, Steuben county on I-390. And another one for “Failed to use signal lamps”. The officer mentioned that he had been following over for 5 miles before he pulled me over.
I am form VA. Travelling to NY to appear in court from VA will be a difficult thing to do. Would it affect my VA points and insurance and leave a big hole in my pocket if I pleaded guilty? What would you recommend that I should do in my case?
Thank you in advance for your advise!
Shankar,
You must plead not guilty and fight these tickets. A NY conviction will transfer onto your Virginia license and a 90/65 is a very serious speeding ticket under Virginia law. If you cannot appear in court, then I highly recommend that you retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for your advice and help.
Thanks Shankar.
I’m glad that you’re speeding ticket worked out.
Matthew Weiss
Great blog!!! Seriously good site! I read most of this but still would love your opinions on my specific situation.
I was clocked going 81/65 on I-90 in Chautauqua County (Town of Sheridan). The officer was nice enough to lower it to 76/65 which is the speed I told him I was going (the truth as I thought I really was – I was very surprised by his measurement of 81!!). On the deposition portion of the ticket, the officer put “Riding in passing lane same lane radar 81 MPH.” If it matters, the officer never showed me the radar reading.
I’m licensed in Pennsylvania (I live about 2.5 hours away from Chataqua County). My only other NY state offense was another speeding ticket from August 2009 (so about 3 years ago). I know I won’t get points and I will check with my insurance company about potential rate increases.
Specific Questions:
1) Will I be hit with the “Driver Assessment Fee” and, if so, how much will that be?
2) Should I fight this ticket given that the officer already reduced it . I am a grad student with a very modest income. A $300 assessment fee would hurt sooooooo bad!
3) How should I approach this in court (what’s my story)? Is the court in Sheridan be generous?
Many thanks!!!
Pat,
Thanks for your kind remarks. I appreciate it.
Answers follow each of your questions below.
1) Will I be hit with the “Driver Assessment Fee” and, if so, how much will that be? There will be no Driver Assessment Fee for one 81/65 speeding ticket. This fee is triggered when a motorist gets 6 or more points, and this ticket carries only 4 points.
2) Should I fight this ticket given that the officer already reduced it . I am a grad student with a very modest income. A $300 assessment fee would hurt sooooooo bad! Check with your insurance company. If it won’t affect your PA insurance, then you may want to just pay it.
3) How should I approach this in court (what’s my story)? Is the court in Sheridan be generous? You already got a break so there is a good chance that you won’t get another. In fact, the prosecutor could ask to reinstate the original charge prior to trial. See my response to 2 as you may likely end up just paying this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I received a ticket over the weekend for going 45 in a 35 zone in Essex County. I have a PA license, and I haven’t had a ticket since march 2009 (which was in VA.) Any use in contesting this?
Thanks!
~Tom
Tom,
A 45/35 speeding ticket is only 3 points in NY and a conviction here will not transfer to PA. Speak to your PA insurance company and if this ticket will not affect your rates, I think might want to just pay it.
Matthew Weiss
HI,
Thank you in advance for your help – I’ve been reading through your advice, and it seems to be extremely helpful!
I just got a ticket for 42 in a 30 in Tonawanda (driving with the speed of traffic and happened to be at the end of the line of cars on the one lane road). I’ve from San Diego, and you NEVER go to court unless you want to fight the ticket, as driving school is always available. I am planning on going to court on the appointed day, but what do I say, and who do I say it to? I want to plead it down to a lesser charge if possible.
Thank you!
Jen,
Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your CA license, you are doing the right thing by contesting this ticket. On your court date, you should ask what kind of plea bargain can be arranged. I am sure that they will offer you a reduction to a less serious charge.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
I was pulled over today for going 43 in a 30. I plan on sending the ticket in by mail and pleading not guilty. For my previous tickets I always went to the court date listed on the front of the ticket but this time I decided that I want to mail the ticket in. How does this process work? I also asked for the deposition which the ticket says I’m entitled too. I am hoping it gets dropped down to a parking ticket but could you also tell me how much these tickets usually run?
Casey,
The fine for this ticket will be roughly $200. If you mail in a not guilty plea, then the court will send you a new date in the mail. I recommend that you send it with some type of delivery confirmation (and make a copy).
Good lucK!
Matthew Weiss
one more thing, on the ticket it says “return by mail before, or in person on 10/10/12 by 9:00” does that mean i need to plead not guilty by going to court on 10/10 or do i need to fill out the back of the ticket until a court date gets mailed in?
Willy,
You can appear on that date OR send it in not guilty via mail (certified mail).
Matthew Weiss