The first response that most people give when asked why should they fight their New York speeding violation ticket is points. Speeding convictions in New York State carry 3 to 11 points depending on how many miles per hour over the limit with which you are charged.
New York Speeding Ticket Chart
1 – 10 mph over speed limit 3 points
11 – 20 mph over speed limit 4 points
21 – 30 mph over speed limit 6 points
31 – 40 mph over speed limit 8 points
41+ mph over speed limit 11 points
The better response is that one should fight their New York speeding summons to avoid being suspended for too many points. In other words, it is the consequences of having too many points to which people are averse.
In New York State, if you accumulate more than 10 points, you can be suspended. Additionally, even with just one conviction for 31 mph (or more) over the limit, a judge could suspend your license.
Speeding Ticket and Insurance
The second reason for fighting your New York speeding ticket is auto insurance rates. Most people are aware that having a speeding ticket on your record (among other things) can raise your insurance rates. What many people do not know is that, if you have a clean record (no points or accidents) and you are convicted of one low speeding ticket, your insurance rates will not go up. For insurance purposes, a low speeding ticket is one where you are convicted of only proceeding 15 mph (or less) above the limit.
With insurance rates already high for drivers with a cleaning driving record, it is important to fight your New York speeding ticket to keep your rate as low as possible. Another thing you can do to keep your rates low is to take the driver safety class. This 6-hour class will take 4 points off your New York point total plus save you 10% off your auto insurance.
The last reason to fight your New York State speeding summons is money. The NYC speeding ticket cost is, at least, $90. Plus, New York State adds $50 to the fine making the cost of your speeding ticket $140 (or more). Moreover, for a 6-point speeding ticket conviction (21 mph over the limit or higher), the New York State Department Of Motor Vehicles will impose yet another fee called the Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee of $300. This fee increases by $75 for every point above 6 on your NY motorist’s driving record. Therefore, a conviction to a New York State speeding ticket can get very expensive.
As discussed above, there are, therefore, three very good reasons to fight your NYS speeding ticket even if you have an otherwise clean record. If you have any questions about pleading not guilty to a speeding ticket in NY, or how to fight a speeding ticket in NY, try visiting our website for more helpful information.
921 Comments. Leave new
I HAVE A TICKET FOR 51/30 BUT I WASNT RUNNING THAT FAST THERE WAS A CAR IN FORNT ME IN THAT LITTLE SPACE AND THE OFFICE WAS COMING FASTER BEHIND ME WITH THE LIGHT OFF AND I HEARD THAT WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING THE RADAR CAN ADD SPEED AND IT IS CALLED COSINE EFFECT. I HAVE A CLEAN RECORD AND IM SURE THAT I WASNT ON 51MPH..I THINK IT IS A CASE WHERE THE OFFICER TRY TO GET HIS REVENUES.. SHOULD I FIGHT IT BECAUSE IT IS VER Y HARD TO PROOF SOMETHING THEY ALWAYS HAVE THE REASON
Jean,
This speeding ticket carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. We, therefore, recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
yes i am thinking to fight it .. but as usually we(driver) end losing and then i have to add my lawyer fee too
Jean, an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer can maximize your chance of achieving a successful result. Further, if you have a lawyer, you will NOT have to appear in court.
Whatever you decide, good luck fighting this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I just got a ticket for 72 in a 50. I asked the officer if he got me on the radar and he didn’t answer. On the ticket he left the arrest type field with a dash. There wasn’t any radar operator nameeither. I’m planning on pleading not guilty but does that dash in the arrest type field help my case. How could he tell I was doing 72. . I also have a clean record no tickets for anything.
John,
The dash does not help you. Unlike a parking ticket, these types of minor errors do not render a NY traffic ticket fatally defective.
The officer will likely testify that he’s been trained to visually estimate moving vehicles and that, upon observing your vehicle, he estimated it to be +/- 72 mph. He will then likely add that he confirmed his visual estimate by using a radar or laser device.
I hope this helps. Good luck fighting your New York speeding ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss,
A few days ago I received a speeding ticket in Albany for 47 mph in a 30 mph zone. I believe this is a 4 point ticket. I haven’t had any other tickets in the last 36 months. I live three hours away, but I’m thinking I should drive back to Albany for my court date. What’s the best out come I could hope for? How would I go about trying to get it reduced once I get there?
Thanks for your help.
Neil,
Plead not guilty. On your court date, you’ll have an opportunity to conference your case with the prosecutor. Given your clean record, you’ll likely be offered a 0- to 2-point ticket in exchange for pleading guilty.
Matthew Weiss
I have a NJ license, I have a clean record, im almost 19, I got a ticket tonight for 43 in a 30 but the 30 mph zone was only like 20 ft long and by the time the cop even touched his breaks I was in the 35 mph zone. He wrote on the ticket 43 in a 30…should I fight this?
Crystal,
Yes, plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can get this reduced to a less serious charge.
Matthew Weiss
Hi, I have a clean record and received an on the spot reduction for a “speeding in a school zone ticket,” to a “no front license plate ticket” should i try and get it reduced or just accept it? I cant make it to court, because of school. do you know how much it will cost? it was in Marcellus ny
Thanks,
Shawn
Shawn,
No, plead guilty as this ticket carries 0 points. If you fight it, you risk that case be amended back to the more serious charge.
Matthew Weiss
This is a great site. I got a ticket for a
73/30 when he pulled me over I know I was doing 43.what should I do I have a clean record
thanks
Shawn,
Ouch, this speeding ticket carries 11 points and a possible suspension.
You should speak with an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer before proceeding further.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I received a ticket 12 days ago, 1110A, failure to obey a traffic device. I have 15 days from the date of the ticket to answer. I went to plead and pay on the NYS DMV website and got the error that my ticket is not recorded in the system. I have a printed confirmation that proves that I requested notification by email once the ticket has been entered in the system.
Should I continue wait for the notification by email? With only a couple days left for me to answer, I just don’t want to risk having my license suspended.
Justin,
Yes, continue to wait but keep checking regularly. Don’t worry about the 15-days. After 30 days, you should check daily.
Matthew Weiss
I’m in the same boat, my ticket is due this Friday and dmv’s website gave me the same response, do they have the right to suspend our licenses even though we have attempted to plea?
Andy,
DMV will not you on the 15th day. You have actually have, at least, 30 days (if not more). Just keeping checking it regularly and, after 30 days, check it daily. It should “hit” soon.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew, in July 2010 I received a speeding ticket for going 82 on a 50 mph zone in northern state parkway going west in long island ny.. I know it’s my fAult for speeding but anyway my father hired a lawyer to fight for my ticket.. I mean what I got to lose and my job depend on it.. Well the court judge last week found my guilty and ordered me to pay $195 fine and my lawyer told me it wont deduct Any points from my record since it been so long.. But my job just email me stating DMV will prob deduct six points ? So what to do? Thanks shawna
Shawna,
Have you asked your present traffic lawyer for advice? I’m surprised that he or she hasn’t already explained your options.
If it has been less than 30 days since your conviction, you can try and appeal it. Otherwise, you can take an online Driver Safety Class which will deduct 4 points from your record and 10% off your insurance rates.
BTW, the points only remain on your record for 18 months from the date of offense so your July 2010 points no longer count for DMV purposes.
Matthew Weiss
Hi mattthew,
Thank you for writing me back.. My traffic lawyer is puzzled and didnt give me option because he kept stating that since my traffic ticket was dated back June 3, 2010 and the judge found me guilty March 12, 2012 ( since its two years ago) it shouldnt deduct any points from my license..I called dmv up and paid the ticket and they explained that since it wasnt in my record back in 2010 and the judge found me guilty it started the date the judge found me guilty…? soo confused!!!
Shawna,
I stand by my previous explanation but, to help you further, read my article entitled “A Guide To Calculating DMV Points“.
Best,
Matthew Weiss
Hi, I got a speeding ticket in wurtsboro for 99/65 but the officer told me he clocked me twice. Once at 99 going in the opposite direction from me and then at 85 following behind me. I would have questioned him ticketing me at 99 when his radar would have last said 85 but my bf and I had just had the worst corrupt incounter with manhattan pd less than 2 days prior that I was uncomfortable saying anything. The officer said to just fill in my plea, mail it in and I wouldn’t need to worry about going to court at all. I’m from CA and was visiting NY so now that I’ve been back about a week I received a letter saying I have to appear in court. Looking up the points I’m not sure if I get the points from CA or from NY, NY is extreme compared to CA so that worrys me. I can’t go back to appear in court and was originally thinking of just paying the expensive fines, but now I’m not sure what to do. What would you advise??
Nat,
You should definitely fight this 8-point NY speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can save NY points and the $450 Driver Assessment Fee. Further, because points transfer from NY to CA, there is a further benefit from fighting it.
If you do not want to return to NY, then you can retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
I was in Buffalo (West Seneca I believe) and received a ticket for going 70 in a 55. According to the officer, the speed limit did not change to 65 until 1 mile up the road. I’ve never had a ticket before. I have PA license.
I’m concerned that a 4 point penalty could increase my auto rates. Any point in trying to get the penalty reduced or am I wasting my time? Any idea what the fine would be if I just mailed it in?
Matt W.
If you plead guilty, you likely can get this ticket reduced to a less serious one. Contact your PA insurance company to determine whether a guilty plea to this ticket will hurt your rates.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss, thank you for providing this forum of extremely useful information! I’m hoping you can provide some direction.
My son received a speeding ticket the other day in the town of Gates, Monroe County. The State Trooper indicated that he was clocked at 78mph in a 55mph zone using RADAR. My son admitted that he was speeding (64) but did not believe he was going 78mph. He is a relatively new driver (no infractions). He was courteous to the officer but was obviously nervous and admitted he was speeding.
Would it be in his best interest to obtain legal representation in reducing this offence? From reading several posts, you indicate perhaps pleading not guilty and possibly reach a plea deal. Can or should he do this on his own considering he already admitted speeding to the officer? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thank You
Conor,
Thanks for your kind remarks.
Your son should definitely plead not guilty and, on his court date, negotiate a reduction. He can do it himself or he can retain a NY traffic lawyer to handle it for him.
Matthew Weiss
Hi
I was recently driving back to Albany from Rochester via I-90 and was pulled over for doing 81/65. I was pleasant to the officer and since I had no prior tickets or offences he put it down as a 1110A. The area i was pulled over is in the Herkimer area and my court date is in a few weeks. Couple of questions: should I go to court (would appearing increase my chances of a reduction or elimination of the charges)? Should I plead not guilty? And lastly, since I haven’t received the fine in the mail yet (just the initial ticket at the time) should I wait and see?
Just trying to be a little proactive to avoid any necessary hassle.
Thanks!
Andrew, especially if you have an otherwise clean record, you may want to just pay this one. The cop already gave you a break by knocking it down to an 1110a ticket (only 2 points from 4) and, if you fight it, the court could amend it back to the original, more serious charge.
Either way, you are required to enter your plea (guilty or not guilty) via mail or in person. A fine will not be assessed until after you enter a guilty plea.
Matthew Weiss
Just wanted to add he was a State Trooper as well, forgot to mention that if it had any bearing on the situation. He also said I would get more information in the mail soon (not sure when) about more details.
Thanks for the advice Matthew!
Andrew,
I’m not sure what information would be sent to you. You need to answer the ticket by pleading guilty or not guilty.
Matthew Weiss
I was issued a ticket today on State Route 149 in Fort Ann, NY today for 70mph in a 55 zone. The Police Officer asked me if I knew why he pulled me over and I told him “I was probably going a little fast” and he said do you know how fast and I said about 67″ He told me I was going 70. This statement is on the ticket and it says that he verified I was going 70 by radar. I plan on pleading not guilty in an effort to get a reduced charge. Is it better to send in the ticket with a not guity plea or appear in court and make the plea there?
Also, I was recently involved in an accident that was deemed no fault (weather related) and no ticket was issued. I was wondering are any points associated with this type of accident?
Rich,
You do not get DMV points for auto accidents. Your 70/55 speeding ticket, however, does carry 4 points. We recommend that you plead not guilty and try and plea bargain it down to a less serious charge.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
I got a ticket a few weeks ago on the same stretch of Rt. 149 as Rich. I was told I was going 66 in a 45 — but looking at Google street view confirms my suspicion that I was in fact in a 55 mph zone. I live 5 hours from Fort Ann so can’t really go to court in person. Trying to decide how to plea. Any advice based on your experience?
Funny enough, I had almost the exact same dialogue with the police officer.
Matt,
If you cannot or do not want to appear court, then you can retain a New York traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
I recieved a speeding ticket going 40 in a 25 on a military base in georgia and I am a civilian. I am 21 years old and trying to get my CDL license, should I try to fight this to get it reduced or just pay the ticket?
George,
You must contact a Georgia lawyer about this issue. I cannot give advice about this one especially given that your speeding ticket occurred on a military base.
Matthew Weiss
Just received a speeding ticket in the County of Chemung in NY from the Chemung CO Sheriffs Office. Stated 71 in a 55, so 16 over. What should I do? This is my first speeding ticket ever. Plea guilty and pay fine or what?
James,
Plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can ave points and avoid an insurance hike.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
I was recently caught speeding in Queens, NY doing 75 in a 50 mph zone. However, the cop told me in person it was 70, only to find my ticket was marked at 75. Anyway, I’m a 20 year old driver, NY resident, clean record, no accidents, and I’m tied in with my mother’s insurance.
So should I fight this ticket? What’s going to happen to my insurance given my previously clean record, but relatively heavy speeding fine?
Andrew,
We always recommend fighting serious tickets. Your NY speeding ticket carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. If you are convicted, it can result in your insurance rates increasing.
I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” that should help you.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew, i am 17 and recieved a speeding ticket in buffalo, ny (71 in a 55)
and am still in my 6 month probation period until april 16th. i went to plead not guilty online but it said that my ticket wasnt in the system. should i ignore and hope it never does or should i appear in person to plead? im hoping to aviod suspension of my license since its during my probation period.
Anthony,
Keep checking every other day. If your ticket pops up, then plead not guilty.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
Last week I was stopped doing 85 in a 65 zone on the NYS Thruwaty in Orange County, New York – Town of Cornwall. I have returned the ticket pleading not guilty. Am I right to assume, I will have a chance to conference when I receive a court date appointment in the Town of Cornwall Town Court. I have a completely clean record and have never got a speeding ticket in my life. I actually think the NYS Police may have made a mistake – as soon as I noticed the cruiser pulling out at the side of the road, I looked down and seemed to be going 65. Is this at all possible that they made a mistake with radar? Also, they got the color of my rental car completely wrong – they indicated it as black on the ticket when it was actually grey.
Thanks for any information you can provide.
J. Davenport.
Yes, you will have a chance to discuss a plea bargain at the Davenport Town Court.
In regard to the wrong color of your car, this may help at trial but is not grounds for automatic dismissal. We recommend that you enter into plea bargain discussions rather than a trial (especially if this your only issue).
Finally, in regard to the officer’s radar being off, this can be raised a trial but, of course, it will be your word against his at trial (and you can guess whose versions of events will more likely be credited).
Matthew Weiss
I was stopped on a side road that I don’t usually travel doing 46 in a 30 in the Town of Colonie, NY. I have a clean driving record – never been stopped for speeding in 35 years! I was surprised when the officer took my license and registration “to check on it” that he came back with a ticket and didn’t give me a chance to talk to him after checking my information. I thought a warning was appropriate given that he knew that this wasn’t my normal route, particularly when he said the neighborhood was complaining about speeders. Heck, getting pulled over put the fear of god in me! Anyhow, plead not guilty by mail and see if they offer me a reduction OR show up in court and then plead guilty with an explanation? I’m confused!
Mary,
Plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can save points and avoid a possible insurance hike.
If you were to plead guilty with an explanation, there is very little the court can do for you other than possibly giving you a brake on the fine. It is more important, however, to try and the points reduced and avoiding an insurance increase.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I was caught supposedly doing 70 in a 35 zone. This is in NYC on the Henry Hudson NB just after it changes from a 50 zone. I think it slipped my mind that it dropped to a 35 zone, and by the time I had realized, the flashing lights were behind me. I didn’t think I was doing as high as 70.
Anyway, the officer claimed he caught me by laser, but interestingly, I have a radar detector which also picks up laser, and it never went off. Obviously, I didn’t want to state this fact to the officer at the time!
So I guess I have to go to court given my offense is over 31. One other complication is that I am using a UK license as I am over here as an ex-pat temporarily (in fact, I am moving to Chicago in about 4 months time).
Do you have any suggestions for defense? Also, I presume I am still subject to the DRAF despite my UK license?
Many thanks for this forum; it is a great resource.
Julian
Julian,
This is a pretty serious speeding ticket because it carries 8 points, roughly a $300 fine, an $450 Driver Assessment Fee (applies even to non-residents), and a possible suspension.
Read this article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“. It will help you understand the process of fighting this ticket better.
BTW, the location where you got your ticket traps a lot of motorists.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I was recently was pulled over doing an 80 in a 55 in the town of Seneca. This is my first ticket. I decided to fight the ticket to see if I could get it reduced to a lower speed and less points, also the officer said that I was on a completely different road than he had actually pulled me over. Tonight I had court and when I brought up that the officer wrote the wrong road they advised me to take it to trial. I was just wondering about what types of fees go with taking it to trial and also what you think my chances of getting it reduced may be?
Justin,
There is no extra fee for taking your case to trial. At your next court date, ask for a conference and see if what, if any, offer you can get. This time don’t mention the “wrong street” issue.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I recently received a speeding ticket doing 73 in a 50 from a state trooper on Palisades parkway s/b 7-6 in Orangetown, NY. I have a relatively clean record, excluding a minor changing lane violation 9 months back in Long Island (2 points). My license is from Illinois.
I was hoping you could advise me on how to argue this charge. Based on your experience how often does a plea bargin work, and what could I expect he or she would drop the charges to. Also, how does the plea process work. And finally, would taking a defensive driving class prior to my plea be helpful.
Kindly,
Alan
Alan,
At the Orangetown court, you will almost always be offered a plea deal. Just be polite and don’t argue.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Matthew,
I received my first speeding ticket after 15 years of driving on Feb 19th. I was pulled over with doing 73/35 near the Whitestone Bridge. From your website, I see this will result in a 8 points in my license plus ticket and surcharge fees totally close to $600. I am going to reply with a not guilty plea. Please advise on what should be my next steps. I have a clean driving record. I am going to start with taking the defensive driving class.
Regards
Anand
BTW, I have a Florida license.
Anand,
Because points from a NY conviction will transfer to your FL license, we recommend that you fight this 8-point ticket. You should also fight it to hopefully avoid a suspension. Your case will likely be heard at the Queens North Traffic Violations Bureau where there are no deals or plea bargains.
I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” that you hep you prepare your defense.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Matthew, I am 23 years old and recently got a speeding ticket in Ambsterdam, NY doing 80 in a 65. I was driving back home from Buffalo, NY to Lowell, MA and I was going cruise control at 65 til I saw a sign 3 miles til rest area and decided to take it up a notch because 1 I was tired and needed a break after driving 5 hours 2 I really had to go and 3 I needed to pump gas. I’m going to plea not guilty because I have a clean record and in November I’ll become an experienced driver and have my insurance rate go down. What do you think the outcomes will be? Need your advice.
Sina,
If you plead not guilty, you likely can negotiate this speeding ticket down to a 2-point disobey traffic control device ticket (and possibly even a 0-point parking ticket).
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hello matthew, I received my 1st speeding ticket yesterday. I am 25 and have no points on my record. I was doing 76 in a 55. I drive a 1980 corolla and told the officer my speedomoter must be off cause it said I was doing 66 not 76. The officer gave me no break. Wrote it as a 76 in a 55 and even gave me a ticket for inadequate speedometer. There was no corrections paper with the ticket for the speedometer so how can I get that taken care of? And I figure I will take ur advice and pleadnot guilty and say I want to avoid a trial and want my previously clean record considered. also I have a conditional license and wondered if that will be affected? Thanks for your time andknowledge
Frank,
I don’t understand how you have a conditional license despite your license having no points. Please explain.
In any event, you should plead not guilty and, on your court date, bring with you proof of repair for your speedometer. This documentation should be enough to get this equipment violation ticket dismissed (especially if you take care of the repair promptly).
In regard to the speeding ticket, you likely will be able to negotiate a plea bargain to a lesser charge (like a 2-point disobey traffic control device ticket).
Matthew Weiss
I received a speeding ticket today for going 73 mph when the speed limit was 50. This was on the 295 in NYC. I had just taken a road trip from Florida two days before and did not realize that I was speeding since the speed limit coming up from Florida is normally 70. I have already pleaded not guilty and have a court date in August, which is almost 6 months away. First of all, is the Florida excuse even a good justification for the case? And secondly, wouldn’t the officer forget me 6 months later? What are the chances of my case for this situation?
(PS. I was actually almost late to school, ironically I still made it on time to class after the ticket.)
Thanks,
Mina
Mina,
The “Florida defense” will not work. Ignorance of the law is not a valid defense anywhere in the United States.
In regard to the officer, he or she likely has notes to “refresh” his or her recollection. I wouldn’t rely exclusively on beating this ticket on the lapse of 6 months.
Matthew Weiss
I received a 1110a in lieu of a speeding ticket. My question is; do I call to find out how much the ticket will cost? Do I send the ticket in and wait for them to send it back? Can I stop down to the court prior to my court date? The last thing I want to do is to go to court.
Jo,
You can fill out the back guilty portion of the ticket and send it in. We urge you to send it in with some type of delivery confirmation and to make a copy for your records. The court will send you a letter with the amount of fine the fine that is due.
Matthew Weiss
My son received a NYS DMV traffic ticket for expired registration and I’m advising him to plead not guilty and throw the dice. No points, I know, but it’s still a $175 fine (yes, it’s over 60 days). There are a couple of defects on the ticket, namely he is shown as Owner/Operator, but his mother is the actual owner; and his DOB is shown as the same date his license expires, 05/26/12. Then, we went on the DMV website 5 days after the ticket was written to plead and go for a trial date, but the ticket has not been entered into their files. We signed up to have them email us if and when it is entered, or let us know 180 days later if it still isn’t in the system. Any advice to add?
thanks,
Kevin
Kevin,
Those errors do not render your son’s ticket fatally defective. Your best best is to hope the ticket never “hits” the DMV system. If it does, it will be hard to win this case. Registration tickets are one of the simplest types of tickets for a judge because the car was either properly registered (or it was not). We call this a “paperwork ticket”.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
yesterday I got my first speeding ticket (58 in a 30mph zone). I live in Westchester, NY but I am from Germany. I live here for just 1 year. Now I am so afraid and I really don’t know what could happen now. I hope you could help me.
Thanks.
Jenny,
This NY speeding 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.
We, therefore, recommend that you fight this ticket to save money and points. Even though you are in New York for only 1 year, New York will still keep track of tickets that accumulate here and can penalize you like a New York driver.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss,
I received a ticket in Queens, NY this weekend for a Right Turn on Red. I currently live in Boston and carry a Florida DL and was operating a rental car. I had no idea Right Turns on Red were not permitted in NYC. The Officer still ticketed me. Does it make sense to fight this in Court or at least work out a Plea to reduce the $275 ticket? Also will the points be reported to the State of Florida?
Thanks in advance.
Mattyrye,
Points from a NY conviction will be reported to Florida and will result in points being assessed against you there. In New York City (including Queens), there is no plea bargaining for traffic tickets. Therefore you either have to plead guilty and pay it, or plead not guilty and have a hearing. At a hearing, you will either win or lose. Read my article about fighting a traffic ticket at the Traffic Violations Bureau.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you Mr. Weiss, very helpful information. One last question though, have you ever seen a Judge show leniency if your defense is ignorance of the law? I have never drove in NYC and every state/country I have held a license you have been allowed to Turn Right on Red.
Mattyrye,
You most likely will be shown no “leniency” in the New York City Traffic Violations Bureau. In this court it is “all or nothing” so you’re either found guilty or not guilty. The minimum fine is $250 plus the NYS surcharge and, if you are found guilty, this is likely what you’ll be charged.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you again for the excellent information. This may not be worth fighting because I am not sure what type of defense I could put together to defend the right turn on red.
I got a speeding ticket for going 73 in a 55. I already have 5 points on my record. I have ticket reduction papers and do not know what to give for the “reason I should get a reduction” question. I know I need this reduction and want to increase my chances of getting it by not putting something stupid for an answer.
Josh,
You can improve your chances by taking the Driver Safety Class and attaching proof of completion to your reduction papers. It can’t hurt to include a phrase like “I prefer to resolve this amicably rather than hiring a traffic lawyer”.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mr Weiss my son received a ticket for speeding doing 53 in a 20 on college grounds the suny police gave him a ticket on the next road which is town property told him he had him on radar, we know that they use hand held units also this was the first time my son had his car at school he was only there for 2 hours and the office kept making mention of the type of car he was driving and that he never seen it before, my son swears he wasn’t going that fast and I would like to know how to fight this
Jeannie,
Your son should plead not guilty and fight this 8-point speeding ticket. IF he does, he likely can negotiate a plea bargain to a less serious charge.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss,
I received a speeding ticket last night, going 54 mph in a 30, where the prospect expressway meets ocean parkway. It was highway patrol and the officer wrote that the date of offense is 2/11/2011 and then again, for the date affirmed, instead of 2012. I did not even have the car I was driving last night at that date, as I only bought it about 2 weeks ago. Can this work to my advantage? Is it grounds for dismissal?
Thank you!
Rachel,
With the right judge, you might win on this error. There are other ways to fight this ticket so I recommend that you should consult with a NY traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for all of your help and comments. Your site is a fantastic resource.
I was given a ticket in Brooklyn on Ocean Parkway doing 60 in what I didn’t realize was a 30 (parkway was coming to an end). It’s my first ticket in 20 years of driving. The ticket does not have an arrest-type (left blank), so I don’t know how he arrived at that speed. To further add confusion, in the Description box on the ticket it simply says “speed” with a 55 circled in the corner of the box, and the code PL 23056 at the bottom of the box (not sure what that is). My address on the ticket is also my old address, even though it is correct on the back of the license and correct on my insurance and registration. Additionally, he didn’t take my registration to write my ticket.
Are these technicalities that would generally be overlooked by a TVB judge or do I have a case to plead ‘not guilty’?
Much thanks in advance!
MG,
Thanks for your kind remarks.
Those mistakes and omissions will not be enough to get this traffic ticket dismissed. Unlike parking tickets, minor mistakes such as these are insufficient to obtain dismissal.
However, there are many ways to obtain a favorable result. We therefore recommend that you fight this speeding ticket.
Matthew Weisss
Hi,
I’m 19 years old and I got a ticket for going at 56mph when the posted speed limit was 35mph. A 21-30mph ticket.
Should I fight this ticket. What are my chances? I have maintained a clean record and this is my first time getting a ticket. I live in Illinois.
Zeki
Zeki,
You should plead not guilty and fight this ticket. In Illinois, three moving violation convictions within one year results in a suspension of your Illinois license (if over 21 years old – if under 21 then 2 convictions within two years can result in a suspension). A New York moving violation conviction counts towards the three (i.e., transfers).
Your speeding ticket carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. If you fight it, you likely can save NY points and money.
Matthew Weiss
I just got a ticket for going 70 in a 50 mph zone in Brooklyn. Is it possible to fight the ticket? And what would be the best way to approach it? This is my first speeding ticket.
Yes, it is possible to fight it but hard to win.
Read my article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“.
Matthew Weiss
Sounds difficult. I wouldn’t be sure what would be a plausible defense. Would it make sense to hire a lawyer?
Jenny,
At the NYC Traffic Violations Bureau, it is very hard to win even for an experienced New York traffic lawyer. Therefore, I do recommend that you, at least, consult with one. Feel free to call us tomorrow.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I received a ticket for driving 73 in a 50 mph zone..it was on a highway. The officer flagged me down way before i got to him. He told me he clocked me doing 70 but the speedometer caught me doing 73. I dont know how that works….Is there a radar on the highway? Im from nyc. What can I do to fight this case? My court day is on thursday of this week!
John,
You should appear on your court date and fight this ticket. It carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine, and a 4300 Driver Assessment Fee (assuming you have an otherwise clean record). If this ticket was issued in New York City, there are special rules for fighting at ticket there. Read my article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau” for help.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Matthew,
I recently got clocked and pulled over for going 51 on a 30 mph in Scarsdale. The officer told me that I was guilty of 4 charges for passing by four 30 mph signs going at 51. That would have gotten me 4 tickets and 10 points off my license. But Instead, he decided to give me a break and only gave me one ticket in violation of 1110A which would only take 2 points off. I was thinking if I should fight it or not. I feel that I have very little to no chance of winning and the fact that if I lose, I could be charged the 4 initial violations the officer could have got me down for. I have never received a ticket (besides parking tickets) before this day. I was also involved in an accident about two weeks before and I have never been in an accident before that either. It still have not been determined who was at fault with that accident as of yet. So, I don’t know if that would affect the outcome or anything else in any way or not.
Thank you for your time.
Carmine,
The officer gave you a nice break by reducing the charge to only a 2-point disobey traffic control device. If you fight this ticket, he could try and amend it back to the original, more serious charge. Ultimately, you’ll have to decide what is the best court of action but I hope the above information helps you with this decision.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Mathew,
Great info on your website here, I got clocked going 76 on a 55 on I-81 or so the officer says. I plan on fighting this because of my the consequence that this 6 points my do to my otherwise clean record. My question is, can a moving vehicle accurately clock another moving vehicle?
The cop car was in front of me, and I noticed him then slowed down. He slowed down even more then came behind me to pull me over. How reliable is his read at this point? i really find it hard to believe he was moving and was able to focus his laser at my car. Thanks
Hank
Hank O,
Thanks for your kind remarks. Unless you take your case to a trial, those issues will not come up. You should first explore working out a plea bargain to save points and money. If it is a reasonable offer, perhaps you’ll want to take it rather than risking an outcome following trial.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Matthew,
3 days ago, Friday, I received a speeding ticket in Trumansburg, NY. I was going 45 in a 30, (as I hadn’t realized the limit had changed a few hundred yards before, from 45 to 30). I have a previous ticket from, I believe less than 18 months ago, from Fayette, NY, which I got pulled over for speeding, but the officer gave me “failure to obey a traffic control device” which I believe was only a 2 point penalty (which i pleaded guilty to).
The officer told me that in the town it is their policy to not pull anyone over unless they are going more than 10 miles over. Upon reviewing the ticket, it is stated my speed was 45mph, however, the ticket states the arrest type was “1-Patrol” which, if I’m not mistaken, means it was based on visual observation, therefore, how would he know I wasn’t going only 40? Would that be a point to argue? Furthermore, I was not provided a supporting deposition on the spot, so would it be wise to request one, and hope to not receive it, or receive a contradictory or incomplete one?
Beyond this I don’t know if it’s worth pointing out, but on the printout, there are spots that didn’t print at all, including part of the section to plead guilty, and part of where it explains the option to request a supporting deposition.
What would my best option in this be? If I’m hoping for at least a bargain, do I not submit a plea?
Thank you for your input!
Jonathan,
This speeding ticket is relatively low (only 15 mph over). Therefore, I would plead not guilty and ask for a conference. You likely can negotiate a plea bargain to a lesser charge.
BTW the items you mentioned may help at trial but I would for first explore a negotiated settlement first. Finally, you can demand a supporting deposition but sometimes the mere fact that you made the demand can make it harder for you to negotiate a favorable settlement.
Matthew Weiss
I received the ticket in NYC (Astoria). This is from the traffic violations bureau.
Rachel,
Your ticket will likely be scheduled for the Queens North Traffic Violations Bureau located at 30-56 WHitestone Expressway, 2nd floor.
To understand how the TVB works, read my article “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I received a ticket for failure to stop at a stop sign in Portchester, NY. I wanted to go straight to trial to fight it but i don’t have palpable evidence. I requested a pre-trial which I have coming up two Fridays from now to see if I can plea bargain (if that fails, that I’m going 100% for trial). The thing is I’m a CT resident, I’ve had a clean record for 1 year, I know that the points won’t transfer and I’ve already called my insurance about the future of my rates. As far as the plea bargain: 1) Do you know what kind of pleas I should expect? 2) If you do, what would be my best option? 3) Is it necessary to go with a copy of my driving record, or I could just mention it the conference? 4) Since I live in CT, would the same pleas/ laws apply, meaning would CT DMV accept NYS decision? For example, if I decided on NYS driving school, would CT accept that? Any help is greatly appreciated.
AJ,
Try and get a 0-point plea bargain like a parking ticket.
Bring your license as it helps you and they may not have it (especially your CT record).
NY and CT have different rules and points don’t transfer so don’t worry about that aspect
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I got a speeding ticket yesterday for going 50 in a 30. I know its a $195 fine and 4 points. Is it possible to fight this?
Rachel,
Yes, it is possible to fight it. How you fight it depends on various factors such as where you got the ticket and the facts of your case. Many of the comments in this string will be helpful for you to read.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew, you have a tremendous website, thank you.
I received a disobey sign ticket in Queens for making an illegal U-turn. This occurred on Queens Blvd. which consists of four parallel road sections separated by cement islands. The express lanes, going opposite directions, are in the middle, and on the outside are local lanes going in opposite directions.
I made a left hand turn at a directional light from one express lane, to the local lane going the opposite way. I got pulled over for an illegal U-turn. I had never seen a sign saying no U-turn, and on inspection afterwards, there was only an image sign, which I had taken to mean that there was no turning from the express lane to the adjacent express lane going the opposite direction. Plenty of cars make this turn from the express lane to the local lane going the opposite direction, and never get pulled over. I had never imagined that this sign referred to that I had made from the express lane to the local lane going the opposite direction.
2) Furthermore, the sign in question is very high on the pole, out of and above what I would consider a normal range of vision.
3) And, the officer only listed the two street names as the location of the infraction, with no mention of the direction in which I was going.
The officer claimed that the no u turn sign (again no words, only the image) does refer to any turn where one changes direction by 180 degrees. I question whether this is true, must the sign have the words, “no U turn” on it to refer to a 4 section road like Queens Blvd. and that the image sign only refers to turns into adjacent sections. Is there a height underneath which such a sign must be posted on a road (there is none on the traffic light…)?
And, finally, must the officer write the direction I was traveling on the summons? Or is just listing the intersecting roads sufficient.
Thanks so much.
Kirsten,
Thanks for your kind words.
In regard to your U-turn ticket, it does not have to list the direction of travel to be a valid ticket. At your hearing, however, the officer must testify as to your original direction of travel and the new direction of travel after you made your U-turn.
In regard to the sign, it must be posted at a height that is reasonably likely to be seen. Usually, signs should be posted 8 to 12 feet off the ground. If it is truly overly-high, then take photographs of the signs from various angles as soon as possible, and introduce them at your hearing.
I hope this helps.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I have a pre-trial conference with the ADA for a speeding ticket (going 67mph on a 45mph road). I have a clean driving record, never got as much as a parking ticket. I do not drive that fast, I think I was distracted and have not noticed the change of speed sign (it changed from 60mph to 45mph), but I do not think I was going that fast anyway. My question is: how do I prepare for this conference and what do I say to the ADA? Do I admit that I was speeding? Do you think I need a lawyer with me?
Thank you so much,
Carla
Carla,
You can handle this yourself if you are comfortable. If not, then retain a NY traffic lawyer to appear for you.
At your conference, do not admit guilt (but do not deny the charges either). Just explain that you’d like to explore a non-trial resolution. If you point out your otherwise clean record, you should be able to negotiate a more favorable outcome (assuming this case is not be heard at a Traffic Violations Bureau).
Matthew Weiss
Thanks Matthew. One more thing, This is my first ticket and I’ve had a clean driving record for over 18 years. With such clean record what chances I have to get 0 points?
Greg, I doubt that you’ll get a 0-point offer. In my experience, the ADA will not be sweeten the 1110a offer.
Matthew Weiss
I have speeding ticket 81 in 65 zone on I 395 going south violation 1180-d. The district Attorneys offer me redaction to 1110a. Should I take it the offer or fight and try get 0 points?
Greg,
An 1110a offer is a decent offer for an 81/65 speeding ticket. You’ll have to decide if you want to take it.
Matthew Weiss
I got a ticket for supposedly going 47 in a 30! I am 32 and have never in my life speeding and I have 16 years of no tickets ever! What happens in court… I pleaded not guilty cause I don’t feel I was going 47 that’s crazy!
John,
You did the right thing. You have nothing to lose by fighting this ticket. How you fight it and what kind of results which can be expected depend on a few variables including the court and the judge.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
This past saturday morning at 5:40am I was pulled over on Jericho Tpke in Suffolk County. I was clocked at 95 in a 40 and I honestly have no other explanation for this other than having a mild-panic attack while driving and I didn’t notice my excessive speed due to there being no other card on the road. I was late to work and freaking out, since I am on thin ice as far as attendance goes. I explained all of this to the officer. I have had a similar situation in Nassau County with a 79 in a 55 about two years ago. That was reduced to a failure to yield after I explained the medical reasoning. I understand that Happauge generally does little in the way of bargains, but do you think I have any chance in this situation or should I just plead guilty and pray that the judge is lenient based on my circumstances and doesn’t suspend my license? Am I at the mercy of the court or do I have a chance of being heard out?
Louis
Louis,
You should retain an experienced NY traffic lawyer as this is a very serious ticket. You can be suspended for this New York speeding ticket because it is a very high speed (40+) that carries 11 points, a $300+ fine and a $675 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
I was ticketed for going 72/55 on the Taconic pkwy near Austerlitz, NY (I think that’s Columbia County). 4 point ticket.
I was wondering how this ticket will affect me. I am a student in NY so I live here but I still have my license/registration from Alaska. I have NY insurance. Will I be getting points, and will my insurance be affected?
I don’t live that far away so I guess I could show up to court in Austerlitz. Will they plea, and if so, do you think they would reduce my MPH over the limit so that it is under 15 mph? that way, it would qualify as a minor speeding violation and wouldn’t go to insurance, if I understand it correctly.
Billy,
This ticket carries 4 points, roughly a $200 and can hurt your insurance rates. I therefore recommend that you plead not guilty and show up in court. You likely can negotiate a more favorable outcome.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss