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
I just got pulled over yesterday for the first time for doing 48 in a 30. I was bring home some friends from work on my break and trying to get back to work before my 30 minutes were up. in the county of Rensselaer NY. The car was my girlfriends and her parents dont like me driving it and i havent told them or my girlfriend and my court apperance is march 21 and her car needs to be rergistered march 2 i, just wondering will this show up when she goes to register her car with her parents or not because it was a moving violation and no a parking one
Brandon,
Traffic tickets are associated with a motorist’s license, not a registration. Therefore, a conviction to this speeding ticket will not impact your girlfriend’s parent’s insurance rates or registration.
Matthew Weiss
I just got pulled over yesterday for the first time for doing 48 in a 30. I was bringing home some friends from work on my break and trying to get back to work before my 30 minutes were up. I was in the county of Rensselaer NY. The car was my girlfriend’s and her parents don’t like me driving it. I havent told them or my girlfriend, and my court apperance is March 21st and her car needs to be re-registered March 2nd. I just wondering will this show up when she goes to register her car with her parents because it was a moving violation and not a parking one
Brandon,
Your speeding ticket will not affect the ability to re-register the car. A speeding ticket is associated with a motorist’s license, not someone’s registration.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you Mr. Weiss . So, if they don’t have any deals or plea bargain
Will there be any difference in the outcome if I hired a lawyer or not .?
Thanks again .
Nosir,
It is impossible to predict results. An experienced NY traffic lawyer will be able to maximize your chance of a successful result, however.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Mr. Weiss-
Unfortunately, I found “Confessions of a Traffic Lawyer” too late. I am appearing at Queens Traffic Court tomorrow morning to fight a speeding ticket. The ticket was issued at 1:45 am on the cross island expressway and states that I was going 71 in a 50mph work zone. This is the first moving violation that I have ever received and pled not guilty because I know I couldnt have been going that fast and there was no sign of a work zone. I read the advice you gave about Queens Traffic court and how they do not plea bargain. Therefore, should I plead “not guilty” when the judge asks me? Or plead guilty in person?
Sincerly apprciate any advice.
Cassandra,
It isn’t too late. Ask the judge for a new date tomorrow and then call us for a free consultation. We may be able to help you save points and money.
Either way, you should plead not guilty tomorrow and fight this 6 point ticket.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
Thank you and appreciate your time. I got another speeding ticket in less than 18 months , the first was on I90 (July 4th 2011) and one yesterday in Clinton Road (Monroe County,NY). Both of them were 20 miles over the speed limit. For the first one I had paid about 230 dollars and now this one. What should I expect with this new ticket and what are the option to fight the same ?
Rohit,
You should plead not guilty. It sounds like you already have 4 points on your license and this new one will make it 8 points, roughly a $200 fine plus a $450 Driver Assessment Fee.
Feel free to call us if you want a free consultation.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
Hello,
I received a ticket a month ago for going 50 in a 30 mph zone in Scarsdale, NY. I was going to plead guilty when I am due in court next Wednesday, but I’m thinking I may have an acceptable defense if the violation actually occurred in a different jurisdiction. I’m very familiar with the road I was pulled over on, and I’m aware that I was actually in the town of Mamaroneck, not Scarsdale, when I was traveling at that speed. The officer was parked on the side of the road right where the border is, so the point at which he pulled me over was about 100 feet or so into Scarsdale. I slowed down considerably upon seeing the parked police car, so I know I was not going over 30 while in his jurisdiction. In addition, the officer didn’t properly copy my date of birth from my license onto the ticket (the date of birth on the ticket doesn’t match my real date of birth as it appears on my license). I also believe I was traveling closer to 40-45, but since I’d still be in the range of 11-20 mph over the limit, it wouldn’t help any to say so.
Please advise as to whether I might be able to plead not guilty. Thanks in advance.
Steven,
Yes, you can plead not guilty and, in fact, should plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can negotiate a more favorable outcome. On a 4-point speeding ticket in the Scarsdale traffic court, you likely can get a 2-point non-speed.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hi i got 72/50 speeding ticket on whitestone express way .
Do I plead not guilty and send the ticket and wait for the court date to talk to prosecutor or can I go in person ? How does it work ?
Thank you in advance .
Nosir,
You should plead not guilty and fight this 6-point ticket. Your case will be heard at the Queens North Traffic Violations Bureau. At this court, there is generally no plea bargaining or deals but you have nothing to lose (and everything to gain) by fighting it.
Matthew Weiss
Some advice, I recently got a ticket on the i-87 in Yonkers, the officer said I was doing 57 on a 30 mph lane at 8am during traffic, specifically at an intersection that has an entrance to the i-87 and lanes to merge to the cross county pwky. I haven never had a speeding ticket, never in any violations and been driving around the are for a while (live near there) yet with the amount of traffic he singled me out and followed me on to the highway. I am pleading not guilty because it was heavy traffic but what else should I do?
Eljay,
Once your case is scheduled, you will have an opportunity to conference your case with the officer and likely negotiate a reduction. Be polite and point out that you have an otherwise clean record.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
im 18 its my first tick i got 77 in a 55 by a state trooper what do you think will happen?
Matthew,
I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can negotiate it down to a less severe offense.
Matthew Weiss
I received a speeding ticket in the town of Schuyler on the interstate, 79 in a 65. I am a MA resident and traveling for a court date would have an expense associated with it, however, I was returning home from a week stay with family for my brother’s funeral-I was traveling with mom&dad-still no break from this guy. Is it worth it to fight this? How much would the fine be? be reduced if I appeared?
Gmal,
Yes, it’s worth fighting this ticket. Plead not guilty and appear on your court date. At that time, you likely can negotiate a reduction.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I am a NJ driver and was stopped in the Village Of Oxford in an area where speed limit signs are clearly designed for trapping. I had been varying speed to match the posted limits but obviously missed one. The officer stated I was going 45 in a 30 which I honestly believe to be exaggerated (I was over the limit) though I have no mode of defense. He stated he cut me a break and gave me a “Disobeyed Traffic Control Device”. There is also a line on the computer generated ticket that states “Break 1110A”. The ticket has both the traffic control device charge on it and the purported speeding information of 45 in a 30. I have a clean driving record and have never received a ticket in NY before. I expected he would issue a seat belt ticket not a moving violation that carries two points which I believe transfer to my NJ driving record, I currently have no points. I am probably four hours away so appearing would be an issue. I find it odd you cannot simply pay a prescribed amount they will only inform you of the fine after you plead guilty by mail.
Any recommendations on the possibility of reducing the expense both in fines and points on this? I realize this may not be possible due to the officer already claiming a break and the speeding information being on the ticket as well.
Thank you for your time.
Jim,
Because you already got a break (and a pretty good one), I wouldn’t fight this disobey traffic control device ticket. If you do, you risk the ticket being amended back to the original charge.
Matthew Weiss
Recently moved to NY and still have my GA D/L. Ticket entering Goshen NY from Warwick NY. Going from 55 in Warwick to Goshen’s 35. Ticket was for 72/35. No excuses, just not paying attention to my speed and my location. From what I read NOT guilty is best for me? Should I get an attorney or try to negotiate it on my own.
PS your site is great!
Joe,
Thanks for your compliment. You definitely want to fight this 8-point speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can save money and points. Given the seriousness of the charge, you should consult with a NY traffic ticket lawyer (if not hire one).
Matthew Weiss
Dear Mr. Weiss:
I got a ticket for an “unsafe lane change” (1128a) E 23rd St. 1st Ave,. Manhattan today. The change lane was blocked by a police car which had no lights or directionals on, so I presumed it was parked there, and moved into the next lane to make the left turn onto 23rd street. The cop that was in the police car blocking the change land came after me and stated that I had made an unsafe lane change. Refused to listen to my reason for making the lane change. Totally unfair!
I live in New Jersey, and have a NJ driving license. My questions are:
1) What is the ticket amount, and are there any points involved?
2) Is it worth hiring a lawyer to fight the ticket?
3) If I decide to fight it, what is the likely as well as the worst case scenario?
I have a clean record, and am a city employee. I also have two witnesses who were in the car with me at that time who can certify in writing about the police car being parked in the change lane.
Many thanks!
Ajay
Ajay,
1) What is the ticket amount, and are there any points involved? This ticket carries 3 points and roughly a $200 fine.
2) Is it worth hiring a lawyer to fight the ticket? Because you have a clean record and apparently do not get a lot of tickets, you may not want to retain a NY traffic lawyer for this one. Of course, if you a concerned about having this blemish on your record, then you may want to have an experienced traffic lawyer on your side.
3) If I decide to fight it, what is the likely as well as the worst case scenario? I can predict the result of your case but your worst case scenario is a guilty determination.
I hope these answers help you.
Matthew Weiss
Hello I Have A Ticket For Doing 98 in a 65 in Essex County NY, Chesterfield, on I-87… I live In Washington DC Which is really Far Should I fight the ticket or plea guilty… What might the Fine And Points Be? Thanks In Advance!!! Also This Is My First Violation….
Stephanie,
Points from a New York conviction will transfer to your District of Columbia license. We, therefore, recommend that you fight this speeding ticket. Because it is far, you can retain a New York traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
This ticket carries 6 points in New York, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee (assuming you have an otherwise clean record). If you fight it, you likely can get the points and monies reduced.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for you site. I got a ticket on Friday night 2/10/12 in New Lebanon, NY Columbia County for 73 in 55 zone. Not a chance I was going over 63-64. I was passing a pickup truck going 53-54 at the time. Officer pulled the car ahead of me and me over – both passing the truck. Something is seriously wrong here. Thanks to you, I am going to fight this ticket and travel the 2+ hours from Westchester to do it. Officer said the truck was going 60! I’m 67 years old and have a perfectly clean record. Thanks.
William,
Good for you. I think you SHOULD fight this ticket. Since you admittedly were speeding (albeit not 73), I recommend that you discuss a plea bargain where you plead guilty but to a charge with less points.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew, first of all i really appreciate your website and how helpful you are to everybody. I hope you can help me. My violation is actually not a speeding violation. I was on the Northern State Parkway today and stopped on the highway because the light saying check engine came on. I was about to call my mechanic when a State Trooper from Nassau County came by and gave me a ticket for a No standing/No Parking on the highway violation. It says I can either plead guilty but will need to mail the ticket by or personally bring the ticket on March 17. The charges will be a fine (nowhere in the ticket stated as to how much), and a revoke or suspension of my license and registration. If I plead not guilty, I will need to mail the ticket in 48 hours. I do not know what to do right now. Please, please help. I will greatly appreciate any answer. thank you.
William R,
This ticket is akin to a parking ticket and, therefore, carries 0 points and no adverse insurance consequences. You may therefore want to just pay it. Otherwise, you can plead not guilty but I don’t see much upside for you to do so.
Matthew Weiss
PS Thanks for your kind words about my blog. I put a lot of time and effort into it so it’s always nice to read complimentary messages.
Thanks so much for your quick and helpful response. More power to you.
Hi Matthew,
I got a speeding ticket this evening while traveling with my wife, cousin and her kid on Palisades Parkway (Orangeburg NY) on our way to Woodbury Commons. The ticket was for 28 miles above speed limit (78 on 50mph). There were 3 cars ahead of me and three other by my side. I tried to explain to the officer that I did not indend to speed and was going with the traffic. I slowed and moved to the right when I saw officer’s car parked on the left. He came behind me and I pulled into the gas station on the left as soon as I saw his lights. I am not sure of my speed at that time. But the road went from uphill to downhill. The officer gave me the ticket and told me that chances are there for it to become a parking ticket if I appear on the court…. Since this is 6 point I am not sure what will happen. How bad is this and Do I plead not guilty?
I have a good driving record and no points. I have a Illinois License. Can you tell me what this means to my Illinois driving record?
On our return, my wife made a video on i phone showing that we were cruising at 50mph. All cars passed us fast on that highway and in fact one of them honked at us..
I have been driving for 8+years with good record. It was a bad feeling to get one…why me as I was following others
I read some of the information on this blog and glad that I found this.
Look forward to hearing from you.
Dee,
If you plead not guilty, you likely can save money and NY points through a plea bargain.
A conviction to a New York moving violation WILL transfer to your Illinois license. Three moving violation convictions within one year in Illinois results in a suspension of an Illinois license (if under 21, then 2 convictions within two years can result in a suspension), and a New York moving violation conviction counts towards the three (i.e., the conviction transfers). Points are only used in Illinois to determine the length of the suspension.
You should definitely plead not guilty and fight this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding ticket back in December after just exiting the 684 near Cross River. It was 1 in the morning and I was the only car on the road and didn’t notice the speed limit – and was used to freeway speeds. I was there on business – I live in Utah. I was cordial with the officer as I knew I had been going over the limit. He gave me a ticket and said “Just pay the fine – and it shouldn’t affect your insurance or anything in Utah.”, giving me the warm and fuzzy of ‘no big deal’. I didn’t look at my ticket closely (I think I had to mail it in?) – though I don’t remember seeing my speed stated on it. A few weeks later I got the fine mailed to me (in Utah) for $185. I just wanted it to go away – and I was in Utah and didn’t think i had an option to contest it being so far away – so I paid it. Now I have this Driver Responsibility Assessment being sent to me saying that I owe another $300! Apparently the officer claimed I was going at least 20 over. I’m wondering if there is any way to contest the ticket after it’s been paid and pleaded guilty to, to avoid this ridiculous extra fine that has come out of no where, with no warning, and blindsided me. Thanks for your help and advice.
Jeremy,
It is difficult but not impossible to vacate your guilty plea. You need to make a motion (called a motion coram nobis) and convince the court that you reasonably did not understand the consequences of your original guilty plea. Under your circumstances (ie, from Utah), you very well could win such a motion.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I just got a speeding ticket for going 37 in a 20mph school zone in Bronxville, NY.
I had just come down a hill and was getting to the school when I say the speed sign and began applying my brakes. Then I heard the siren and pulled over.
What do you suggest I do?
Jayme,
I suggest that you plead not guilty and fight this 4-point speeding ticket. You likely can obtain a more favorable result by fighting this one.
Matthew Weiss
Will I still get charge the 300$ fine for getting 6 points on my license if I am not a New York driver or from New York. I just happened to get my ticket in New York.
Jonathan Heeren,
The Driver Assessment Fee is imposed on ANY driver who accumulates 6 (or more) points in New York State including out-of-state drivers. Therefore, you will be subject to it if you get 6 (or more) New York points assessed against you.
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding ticket last night for going 70 in a 50 on the Palisades Parkway in NJ.What is the proccess of pleading not guilty and will the points transfer over to NY?
Thanks,
Joe
Joe,
The instructions for pleading not guilty should appear on the back of the tickets. We do not practice in New Jersey but assume you can simply send back the ticket with a not guilty plea. We recommend sending it with some type of delivery confirmation and making a copy of the ticket.
If you have any doubt about the proper procedure, we recommend that you call the court.
In regard to points, a conviction from New Jersey will NOT result in points being added to your New York license.
Matthew Weiss
I was recently in the U.S. when i was pulled over on a freeway close to Nyack NY, I was going 87miles/h in a 65m/h, on my way back I was pulled over a second time and this time I was going 97m/h in a 65 zone near Broome County, I should also note that im not a U.S. citizen and was driving a rental car, the officer wasnt very helpful just told me to mail them in and wait for a fine? can you please email me and advise as to how to proceed.
Aries S.,
You should plead not guilty and fight these tickets. Otherwise, you possibly could be suspended in New York and other states will likely honor such a suspension.
Given the seriousness of your situation, I suggest you retain (or at least consult with) an experienced New York traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
I got pulled over for going 47 in a 30 in Eastchester NY. I haven’t had a speeding ticket or moving violation in over 3 years, probably closer to 7+ but I can’t even remember. I am most concerned with the impact on insurance . From what I gather the 17 miles above limit could impact my rate, I have Geico.
I still don’t understand how I was clocked for going 47 it was Super Bowl Sunday night right after the Giants won and headed home, I guess with all the excitement I didn’t notice the speedometer. What are the consequences in Eastchester (Westchester County) and should I plead not guilty even though it says based on Direct Observation by the officer and speed verified by Radar?
Thanks in advance for your input.
Joe
Joseph,
I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. At the Eastchester traffic court, you likely can negotiate this 4-point speeding ticket to a more favorable result (i.e., a non-speeding ticket or even a 0-point ticket).
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
I just got a Ticket in Ontario County, NY for “speeding in a 55”.. I was going 74.. I received a “disobeying traffic control device” ticket in Ontario Count about a year ago for going 10 over; the cop cut me a break. And I just got an “obstruction of view” ticket 3 months ago which I plead guilty to and paid in full. I’m not sure what to do, what the fines will be, or what the points are.. any insight to this would be GREATLY appreciated!!
Mady,
Especially given your record, you should plead not guilty and fight this 4-point ticket. If you do, you likely can save points and money.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
I was pulled over in Clarkstown, NY on my way to a job in Ohio @ 12:15am. I have a CT license and reg (no tickets) the officer never asked for these but told me to get out of the car for “a moment”. Two more patrol cars pulled up and an officer questioned my friend who was napping for the first part of the ride. He wanted to know if there was a “dead body” in the backseat. We were questioned extensively (separately with one officer running back and forth to hear the answers) about why we were going to Ohio and what we were doing before I was ever asked for my license. The ticket is for speed not reasonable and prudent (it had snowed the night before but the roads and the weather were both clear. I was doing the speed limit and did not think the conditions warranted going any slower. How do I handle something like this? Thanks for your input.
DJ,
This ticket carries 3 points in New York. Points from a NY conviction will not transfer to your CT license. A NY conviction will, however, be reported to CT and can be used by your auto insurance company against you.
Your choice is to plead not guilty and fight the ticket, or plead guilty and pay the fine. If you have an otherwise clean record and are not prone to get tickets, then you may want to just pay this one. Your call.
Matthew Weiss
i got a speeding ticket for doing 81 in a 55 on a back county road i allready pled gulty and mailed it in on the 1st how ever my court date was later on the 8th . how soon should i know what the damage is and what should i expect this is my fist speeing ticket iv had my licence for a few years how ever i recever my motorcycle licence under 6 monthes ago even thos i wasnt on a motorcycle will this ticket affect that licence?
Josh,
Even though its your first ticket in a while, I would contact the court and change my plea to not guilty. If you do, you likely can save money and points.
If you don’t want to bother, the court should contact you in a week (or so). If you don’t hear from them, I’d call them. In fact, I’d call them and make sure they they got your guilty plea.
As long as this ticket was issued on your regular license, I don’t think it will affect your motorcycle license.
Matthew Weiss
My wife (we reside in Maryland) received a ticket in Delaware county NY for 87 in a 65. Her court date is in a couple of weeks. I believe she has never had a ticket in NY before and her last MD speeding ticket was > 3 years ago.
Since it looks like a 6 point ticket, we want to try to negotiate it down and also miss the driver assessment charge. To do that, should she return the ticket pleading not guilty and show up on the court date? Does Delaware county negotiate at a pre-trial conference? If it is not possible for her to make the court date, is it acceptable to have a lawyer go for her?
Thanks in advance,
Scott
Scott,
Yes, she should plead not guilty and show up on her court date. They will negotiate in any Delaware County traffic court.
If she cannot make it (or doesn’t want to travel that far), then she can retain a New York traffic lawyer to appear for her.
Feel free to call us for a consultation.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I just got convicted of my first speeding ticket. I haven’t been involved in any form with the police, ever. I was going 71 in a 55 on the I-90 in Cheektowaga, NY going towards Amherst, NY. (That’s 16 miles over). I’m not sure what my consequences are here and I’m scared and worried as hell right now. I’m pleading by mail to avoid Cheektowaga court so I assume it will become a conviction so I don’t know what will happen. License and registration could be suspended or revoked. There’s no fine yet stated on the ticket. For now, I’m nervous and scared and mailing this “plea of guilty.”
I also didnt know police sit and wait on the highway, now I learned my lesson.
Brian,
If it is too late, try and change your plea to not guilty. Call the court and ask them. Often, you can catch these things if you don’t wait too long.
Otherwise, the consequences are in your case roughly a $200 fine, 4 points and a possible auto insurance increase. The insurance increase depends on your insurance company but with a 16+ speeding conviction it does have the right (but not the obligation) to raise your rates.
Matthew Weiss
See, I don’t want to go to court and do all this stuff. The fine I can handle. It’s not a big deal. And I’ve already signed the plea of guilty section just to avoid court. I’m ready for those consequences you’ve listed and I hope that’s all I get!
Brian,
I understand what your saying and wish you luck with your case.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you! I really appreciate your help! You knocked a chunk of my worries away as well as doing a little research on the topic for more information to fill me in on my situation!
Take care,
Brian
Hey Matthew,
I received a speeding ticket going 78/65 a few weeks back and have my prelim hearing tonight. What are the chances that this violation will be reduced to a non-speeding (or parking ticket)? I’m a college student and can afford an insurance increase. This is my second offense as I plead guilty to a 55/40 last year. Thanks!
Seth,
I think you have a good chance for a reduction (i.e., a lesser speed or a non-speed). Given your record, the chances that you get a parking ticket are low, however.
By the way, if you take the New York Driver Safety Class, you can save 10% off your auto insurance rates.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I got a ticket in the town of Harrison, Westchester County NY. The cop pulled over another three cars while he had me pulled over. He was waiting with a gun when we came around a corner. I have never gotten pulled over or gotten a ticket, and I have had my license for 10 years. It was for 55 in a 40. He said at the end “slow down we have been getting a lot of complaints for this spot. Mail it in and when you come to court I will help you out.” Did he mean for me to plead not guilty? Or did he mean for me to plead guilty and still go to court? I didn’t think anyone did that. What should I say when I go? I was speeding but so was everyone else on their way to work. Thanks in advance for your help.
Tammy
Tammy,
Yes, he meant for you to plea not guilty. If you do, you or your New York traffic lawyer can likely negotiate a more favorable outcome.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I got a first speeding ticket of 85 on 65 near Wilton town court, Gansevoort, Saratoga NY. I am on initial 6 months probation as I got my road test cleared 2 months back.
I dont want to face suspension, whats the alternative and tentative fine. Do I need to hire an attorney or can I fight it myself?
Regards,
Hiren
Hiren,
You definitely want to plead not guilty. If you get convicted of a speeding ticket while on probation, then you’re license will be suspended.
Given the seriousness of this speeding ticket, I strongly recommend that you retain a New York traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
I just got a speaking ticket of going 69 in a 55 in Dutchess County (Red Hook) NY. This is my first ticket on record (I had one before but it’s not recorded–long story). The cop said he clocked me going 69 when I passed him and then 67 when he was behind me. However when I saw his lights I looked down and saw I was going 49—and there were three cars directly in front of me. I had no idea why he pulled me over–I thought it was for driving too close. I asked him why he pulled me over and he told me. I said I must not have been paying attention as I was very tired. Should I plead not guilty?
Tabitha,
Yes, plead not guilty. If you do, you or your traffic ticket lawyer can negotiate a more favorable result (i.e., less points).
Matthew Weiss
Thanks! This website is SO AWESOME and I am so thankful for the free advice. I am advertising for you on my facebook page…NOW! Thanks!
Tabitha,
My pleasure! Thanks for the shout out.
Best,
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I want to start out by saying that it’s really awesome what you are doing by offering free advice. It’s not something you see very often, and I really appreciate it.
With that said, I was hoping that you could give me a little advice –
I got a speeding ticket a little less than a year ago in Lancaster, PA for doing 51 on a 35. The officer marked me down for ignoring a traffic signal instead of speeding, and so I just paid for the ticket.
However, a few nights ago, I was caught doing 77 in a 55. I was speeding because I was trying to get away from what I initially thought was a drunk driver. I was doing 60 in the right hand lane, started to pass the driver on the left of me. As I was right next to him, the other driver swerved into my lane, and I thought that he was drunk. I sped up to get ahead of him as quickly as possible, but he also sped up. I realized that he was messing with me, so I started to slow down. I didn’t slam the brakes on however, because I was within half a mile of the 65 zone, and I figured that it would be better for gas mileage if I just waited. When the officer pulled me over and asked why I was going so fast, I didn’t explain it to him because I was still pretty freaked out and upset.
Is it worth going to court for this one?
Thanks so much.
Melanie,
Thanks for your kinds words. It’s nice to be appreciated.
Yes, I recommend that you plead not guilty. If you do, you or your traffic ticket lawyer can likely negotiate a more favorable result (i.e., less points and less money).
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
I was reading your website and found your information most helpful. Would you be kind enough to give me your opinion on the following?
My daughter 19 with a clean driving record and a NYS License was cited with VTL 1180D speed in Zone (80Mph/65Mph zone) in the County Of Cortland NY. The officer directly observed the violation and verified by Radar. Her clocked speed was 88Mph.
She completed a defensive driving class within the last 2 weeks but the certificate has not been issued and thus has not been submitted to the Insurance company.
I believe this carries a fine of approximately $200, 4-points, with no increase in insurance rates. She admitted to driving at 80Mph.
Should she plead Not Guilty and try to get the points reduced or is this too risky since the officer already reduced the speed from 88mph to 80Mph and it is noted on the supporting deposition which he issued at the scene ?
Should she take the defensive driving class again and submit the new certificate for the 2nd class to the Insurance Company?
Thank you in advance for any insight you may offer.
David,
Your daughter cannot get 4 points off by taking the Driver Safety Class because she just took it 2 weeks ago. You have to wait 18 before she can take the class again and get point off.
If she pleads not guilty, she does risk that the charge is amended back to the original speed. You and her will have to decide if you want to “roll the dice” and fight this one.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
hey i got a 1180d violation for going 84 in a 65.. which was total BS, but regardless.. got it reduced to a 1102 with 2 non moving points… what does non moving points consist of? it was my impression points related to dangerous driving which is impossible if your not moving.. seems odd to me booze in the car is 0 points and non moving violations are 2.. can you please explain how these 2 points will effect me? I am from ontario not the states but got the ticket in NY.. they also want me to take a defensive driving course.. am i better to keep fighting this or take the 2 points?
Jordan,
You likely can negotiate a better outcome for Ontario demerit point purposes. This would be a pretty good deal for a New York driver but not so great for an Ontario license-holder.
BTW, a VTL 1102 violation is not a “non-moving violation”. Rather, it is a non-speeding violation. Any ticket that carries points is a moving violation.
Matthew Weiss
Hey Matthew,
I was issued a ticket for 74/55 on Route 17 in the town of Hancock (Delaware County).
My questions are as follows:
Based on what others have described and your responses, I assume this will be around $200. Is this correct?
I have a clean driving record and am currently listed as a driver on my parents insurance policy. I will need to get my own policy in the next few months when the title for the vehicle is transferred to my name. Will this ticket affect my rates?
I will be moving out to Washington this summer, and establishing residency there. Do tickets from NY transfer to WA driving records, and will this affect my insurance rates there?
I live in Rockland County, so it’s over 2 hours to drive to the court date. Is there a way to plead not guilty by mail and have the ticket reduced without having to show up (myself or a lawyer) to the court date?
Thanks.
Kristen,
Yes, your fine will be roughly $200.
A conviction to 74/55 can affect your auto insurance rates (but may not). The only way to guarantee that your rates will not be affected is to negotiate a plea bargain to a 15 mph (or lower) speeding ticket or a non-speeding ticket (given your otherwise clean record).
Matthew Weiss
i got pulled over for 45 in a 30. i know in NY they dont do plea bargaining anymore. is this true. should i plead not guilty and go to court?
Thanks
Jay
Jason,
In New York, there is no plea bargaining at the Traffic Violation Bureau courts. All other courts do have plea bargaining.
The Traffic Violation Bureau courts cover the five NYC boroughs, Rochester, Buffalo and western Suffolk County. If you got your ticket anywhere outside these areas, then you can work out a deal. Otherwise, your only choice is to plead guilty or not guilty (and defend yourself at a hearing). If your case is at a TVB court, then read this article entitle “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“. It should help.
Matthew Weiss
Hey my name is Jonathan Heeren I got a speeding ticket in Montgomery, NY Orange County. I was driving from maine to vriginia for school I was about 7 hours into my drive. I got caught between zones and was pulled over in a 65 but clocked in a 55 going 82, which is 27 over. That was my first moving violation offense as I have 0 points on my license. However I pleaded guilty since I go to schools 6 hours away and couldnt come to the court, I also knew I was going that fast. I was wondering what you thought would happen. I know there will be a hefty fine but since it was my first offense wasn’t sure if they would take it “easy” on me or what not.
Thanks
Jonathan,
You will be assessed 6 points in New York, and roughly a $200 fine. You will also be billed separately $300 for the Driver Assessment Fee.
You may have additional consequences on your license but I’d have to know from which state it was issued.
Matthew Weiss
I’ve a clean record and i’m driving here for less than three month. Can i plea guilty and forgot about the record? Or should i plea not guilty and ask for the supporting deposition ?
Patrice,
You haven’t told me what type of speeding ticket with which you are charged, but I recommend that you plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save points and possibly money. Further, if you are on probation still, you can try and avoid being suspended for this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I have a french driver license, and want to know if they keep record on me because i gave a non-driver id to the officer with my foreign driver license. (speeding ticket 11-20mph).
Thanks
Patrice,
New York will keep track of tickets issued to you in New York under your foreign license.
Matthew Weiss
I was given a ticket for doing 62 in a 40 in the Town of Chili (outside Rochester). I have not had a ticket in 23 years so I would consider my record pretty clean…. But from what I read on line the fine and points would be hefty. I thought the area was 45 and many people were going my speed (I didn’t pass anybody) so I honestly do not believe I could have been going 62—but it is a road that I more often take at rush hour when traffic is slow and this was 11:30am instead so traffic was light. The ticket says I need to return a not guilty plea within 48 hours but it has been 72 (I just finally read all the tiny, light dashboard-printer print). My work schedule is crazy (I teach and tutor at two different universities and am a grad student) so I fear that even if I plead not guilty and get a court date, I might not be able to make it. What is your advice, please? Thank you!
Karen,
Plead not guilty as you will likely save money and points by fighting this speeding ticket. If you cannot make your court date, you can always retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Best,
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mathew,
I don’t believe I could be given any advice but here it goes…
I know I am getting my license suspended. I was given a ticket for going 79 in a 30 down sunrise on Long Island Ny Nassau county. He also gave me an unsafely switching lanes ticket and invalid insurance ticket. Wait, it gets worse. Last month I received a ticket for going 60/40 in the same town, down the same highway. I pleaded not guilty for both and mailed them in. Prior to this I had a perfectly clean record, but I am also young and have been driving less than five years. What should I do when I go to the first court date? For the second one all I can do is bring the valid insurance I have, that I gave him. I really just don’t even know what happened that second time. I have no idea what to do. I’ve since been avoiding Sunrise.
Thanks for reading,
Nicole
Nicole,
I hate to disagree but you may NOT be getting suspended. There are things you can do to hopefully avoid this result. Given the severity of your situation (i.e., potentially 18 points), I strong suggest that you contact an experienced New York traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Mathew,
Thank you for the advise. I am going to look into that. I also had one more question. The block that the cop wrote down where he I guess got my speed limit is actually the beginning of a 40 zone. It literally comes right before, lets say you are walking and you come pass the speed limit sign, walk about ten long strides, and there’s the street sign for the block he put down. He wrote down in the report that it was a 30zone. Wouldn’t this mean he clocked me in the 4o zone? And that the ticket is inaccurate, in that respect. Can this in anyway help my situation.
Thank you again,
Nicole
Nicole,
That’s a very good argument. The speed limit that controls is the one depicted on the sign as long as you can see it.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I will be sure to take pictures and bring those with me. Of course along with the lawyer I will soon be appointing. Thanks for all your help. Although I do not believe I was going as fast as said to be, I believe if my licenses is suspended it will be a lesson learned. I’ll have to wait and see Lynbrook is tricky. Thanks again.
Nicole
Nicole,
Our pleasure to help. Good luck with your Lynbrook speeding ticket.
Matthew WEiss
Hi Matthew,
This morning, I was tagged for doing 49 in a 30 in Fishkill (Dutchess County). I’ve only lived in NY for six months. I am a careful driver, and was moving with the traffic, but traffic was going over the speed limit, and it was evidently not my lucky day. I assume I should go to court and plead not guilty. I have an old moving violation — six years ago in rural Kentucky — should I get my DMV record? Should I ask for the deposition (it was not issued with the ticket)?
Thanks for your great work.
Alice
Alice,
The old Kentucky conviction is irrelevant and will not affect you for this speeding ticket, and you will not need to obtain a copy of your record. The Fishkill traffic court will have it already.
You can ask for the supporting deposition. If you do and don’t get it within 30 days of your request, you can then move for dismissal.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I was traveling north on I-87 when I was pulled over for 80 in a 65. The officer did not give me a moment to speak. I gave him my info, he left and then came back with a ticket. Told me to follow the instructions and left. I have chosen to go to the court on Monday night to sort this out. This is my first speeding ticket. I am 26 and have had my license for less than one year.
I had sped up to over take a truck in front of me. Should I plead not guilty and explain my case? Will their be a pretrial conference? I am OK with paying a fine but I would rather not take points because my insurance is already high.
Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Chris
Chris,
Plead not guilty. You likely can get this case reduced to a lesser charge at a pre-trial conference.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss,
I was pulled over in Cortland County, NY last weekend for going 81 in a 65 (I’m from PA). I have 3 points on my license already for running a stop sign last year, and I’m really afraid of this Driver Assessment fee… I’m a college student, and I really don’t have any money; I can’t afford even a normal speeding ticket. Unfortunately before I read this article and responses, I already filled out the paperwork pleading guilty, but I haven’t sent it in yet. How much do you think I would have to pay, and what should I do?
Thanks,
Amanda
Amanda,
Change your plea to not guilty. It is the only way for you to possibly save points and money.
Matthew Weiss
First, I wanted to thank you for providing this amazing resource. It certainly eased my fears slightly regarding my recent traffic ticket. It’s refreshing to see someone offering a service of this nature.
My situation is as follows. I was pulled over in a speed trap and given a ticket for going 54 in a 35 mph work zone in Albany near UAlbany (only 8 days after moving there). I am currently licensed in the state of Pennsylvania but plan on changing my residency to NY in the next few months. I have an otherwise clean driving record as well.
My question is twofold.
1) How should I handle this ticket?
2) Will it affect me if/when I change my residency?
Thanks!
Chris,
Thanks for your kind words. I am so glad that you’ve gotten value from this blog.
You should plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save points and money.
When you surrender your PA license, usually prior convictions (including those from “out-of-state”) will transfer. This provides yet another reason to plead not guilty.
Matthew Weiss
Good Afternoon Mr. Weiss,
I recieved a speeding ticket in Grand Island NY, Erie County. I was doing 67 in a 40. I have to go to court this wednesday. My last speeding ticket was about 5 years ago and it was reduced to two niose violations and driving school. Money is tight, what do you think my out look/ fines will be.
Jim,
I would guess that the prosecutor will offer you a 2-point, non-speeding ticket. If so, I recommend that you take it. It is a good deal compared to risking trial, 6 points and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
The paper I received from the court states For trial. Is this a standard letter? Will I still be able to see the prosecuter prior ?
Jim,
Yes, you most likely will be able to conference with the prosecutor before your “trial”. This is a pretty standard letter.
Matthew Weiss
Good Afternoon Mr. Weiss,
I was issued a ticket on January 23, 2012 for: Disobey Steady Red Light. Agency was NYPD, Local Police code was 123. I’m curious as to my options as I am a New Jersey resident with NJ license. Curious if I would recieve any points, if they would transfer and if it would be worth to fight the ticket? I tried to explain to the officer my reasoning which was very valid but he did not wish to hear what I had to say and was more interested after he had written the ticket. Thank you for your help!!
Jeff,
A disobey red light ticket carries 3 points in New York and, if you are convicted of it, will transfer as 2 points onto your New Jersey license.
Matthew Weiss
Just got a speeding ticket on the NY thruway by exit 31. Was going 80 in a 65 but the cop wrote it up as a 78 to save me the next level up. Have a clean record besides a speeding ticket about 10 months ago in vermont. That was a 70 in a 55. I do not know if I got points from that (my insurance didn’t go up), and I am not sure if that will count as my second within 18 months (because one was out of state). It also doesn’t say a fine amount on the ticket. I am unsure of how I should plead and what I should expect to be paying for a fine. You advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Dan
Dan,
I am going to assume that you have a New York license (not Vermont).
The speeding ticket (78/65) carries 4 points in New York. Your prior Vermont ticket does not transfer as points to New York so that one does not affect you here.
Nevertheless, I would still recommend pleading not guilty and fighting this NY speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can get a more favorable result.
You can expect to pay roughly $200 for a fine for this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for the reply. I do have a NYS license. So since my last points didn’t transfer, does that mean I don’t have to worry about an insurance increase? Also, I have no idea how the whole traffic court thing works. What exactly happens in court? When the officer pulled me over and asked if I knew why I think I said something like “probably was going too fast”, but I did not admit a speed. I know that was probably dumb, but I just would like to know how I can get around that in court if I am questioned. I appreciate the speedy response.
Dan
Dan,
Because you are charged with speeding (78/65), a conviction to this charge will not affect your insurance rates unless you have or get another moving violation within 36 months of the speeding ticket.
In New York an insurance company can raise your rates for one speeding ticket that is 16+ mph over or two moving violations of any type. I suggest you read my article “How Traffic Tickets Affect Auto Insurance Rates“. It should be helpful.
Matthew Weiss
Finally got my date back but I can’t make it becasue I just started a new job and have no time off. I assume delaying it will still keep it in my 8-5 work window. Is this serious enough of a ticket to hire a traffic lawyer? I wouldn’t worry so much about the cost of the reduced ticket/lawyer fee as I would about the points on my license. How much does a lawyer typically cost? And do you serve the area in Schuyler, NY where I got my ticket? Thanks.
Dan
Dan,
The Schuyler traffic court apparently holds court during the day and, therefore, you or your New York traffic lawyer will have to appear as the court schedules it.
A NY traffic lawyer will charge roughly $400 to $650 to handle such a case. Our office regularly defends motorists from traffic tickets throughout New York State including Schuyler, and we happy to furnish you with a free consultation. Just give us a call.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I am a PA resident and just got pulled over in Broome County for going 90 in a 55. The court house is 3 1/2 hours from my home and was wondering if it would make more sense to just pleas guilty and pay the ridiculously high fine? I do not PA to suspend my license and as you mentioned in other replies the points will not transfer. I appreciate your advice and help in this matter.
Ed,
You must plead not guilty and fight this speeding ticket. A 90/55 carries 11 points, roughly a $400 fine, a $675 Driver Assessment Fee and, most importantly, a possible suspension. If you fight it, you can likely save money, points and avoid a suspension.
If you do not want to travel back to New York, then you can hire a New York traffic lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Dear Mathew
I’m a resident of Ontario, Canada and i have had a speeding ticket doing 86 mph on 65 in Salina , NY. i have plead not guilty so the district attorney sent me a letter as in :
Dear Judge
i have received correspondence from defendant in regard to the above case ” 1180 D ” and have been advised :
defendant will complete a defensive driving course prior to disposition
based upon the forgoing facts, the people move as follow :
Amend V&T 1180D To V&T 1110A .
So, i didn’t get it . does that carry any points or fine and if i decided to do the driving course how could they know if i did so .
Thank you.
Chris
VTL 1110a is a 2-point ticket known as “disobey traffic control device“. Obviously, it is a more favorable than the original speeding charge to which you were charged.
Matthew Weiss