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
Thank you for your prompt response.
I’m still unclear as to what the difference is, if any, if I were to mail in the not guilty charge or go in to court on that day. What would happen that day, would it just delay things further?
Thank you again.
Sarah
Sarah,
You can do either one. There is no real difference except, at some courts, you can resolve your case on the date you enter your plea.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mr. Weiss,
Thank you for providing this wonderful service. Glancing through the blog I see you have been doing this for a few years already! It is very much appreciated.
this morning I got a speeding ticket in Middletown, New York for 77/55 in a work zone. he told me he let me off on the Work zone part but by arrest type it does say work zone.
I am 21 and have had my license (clean record) for a grand total of 15 months.
considering that this is a 6 point infraction – and soaring insurance rates – I would like too make a plea bargain… I admitted straight out that I was speeding when he asked me “do u know why u were pulled over?” and I believe in honesty.
If I take a defensive driving course now, would it help on this ticket and/or in court – or do I need to wait till after a settlement….?
There is a court date on the ticket.. where it says return by mail or in person by this date and time… whether plea guilty or not. Does it make a diff. is it better to mail or to go in person?
I am a gentle sweet girl that can have pros and cons I look like a good kid (I am one too) but I’m not so great on the spot… and I’m very obedient, accepting. (I thanked the officer for the ticket.)
do you think I need a lawyer? are u able to give a range of fees for this sort of thing?
also I am young, and I look even younger (like 15) do u think that would make them want to crack down, just b/c I’m young and a relatively new driver, in order to teach me a lesson…
I hope I’m not asking to many questions.
Thank you very much,
Sarah
Sarah,
Thanks for your kind praise. Your are charged with a 6 point ticket that carries roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. It can also adversely affect your insurance rates. Despite your admission, you should plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge savings points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
You can handle yourself or retain an experienced NY traffic ticket lawyer. This is a matter of personal preference. A lawyer will charge roughly between $400 and $600 to handle it. You will NOT have to appear in court if you hire a traffic lawyer.
I can’t comment on your youthful appearance. Judges will often “teach” young drivers a lesson or lecture them.
I hope these answers help. Feel free to follow-up with any further questions.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you for providing a value website to ask these sorts of questions.
Yesterday I received a speeding ticket on the i-90. The ticket is for travelling 85 in a 65. I would like to enter a plea of not guilty. I live out of state (NJ) 5 hours away and, am currently almost 8 months pregnant so I’m certainly not going to be able to make a court date. How can I do this?
I was behind a transport truck in the right lane who was actually going quite slow when I passed a trooper and then another trooper. At that same moment a black SUV (I drive a black subaru) sped up beside me passing both my car and the transport truck. I remember thinking to myself “that guy is about to get a ticket”. So you can imagine my surprise when I see red and blue lights pulling me over shortly after! I actually asked the officer why I was being pulled over – I thought becuase I was driving too slow! Like I said I’m very pregnant – there isn’t a lot of fast anything happening in my life right now!
I know the $300 fee won’t apply to me because it’s over 21 mph, and, it’s 4 pts in NYS but 2 pts in NJ. But, how much would a ticket like this cost if I was to plea guilty out of convenience?
Many thanks for your time!
Jade
Jade,
Thanks for your kind remarks. It’s my pleasure to help.
If you cannot attend court, then you should retain an experienced New York traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you. The fine for this ticket will be roughly $200 but this ticket can also adversely affect your insurance rates.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mr. Weiss
Today I was pulled over for driving 77 in a 55 zone in Hancock NY (delaware County). I have a clean record. I know its a 6 point penalty that includes a drivers assessment fee. I was planning on pleading guilty but my friend told me to plead not guilty and fight the ticket in order to reduce my fee or points. Do you think it is possible for me to reduce my fee/point and obtain a plead deal if i plead not guilty?
Alysia S,
You have a good friend. The advice is sound. You should plead not guilty. If you do, you likely can ave points, money and avoid a possible insurance hike.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Mr. Weiss,
I was pulled over today in Staten Island, NY on a road that I thought was a service road and was a 40 or 45 mph speed limit (because there isn’t one posted) but apparently it was a 30 mph zone. I have nothing on my record and the cop gave me a ticket clocking me at 51 in a 30, I don’t think that I was going that fast. I want to fight the ticket to avoid the points and fines, but I don’t know what defense I would have seeing I have no proof, just that I didn’t think I was going that fast.
Any advice? Thank you!
Caitlyn M,
You should plead guilty. This is the only way to possibly save points and money. Read my article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“. It will help you understand better how to fight your ticket.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Hello:
I would say I have a slightly complicated situation. I have recently received a speeding ticket in Hudson, NY for doing 91 in a 65 MPH zone. I would like to plead not guilty to it so that I have a chance of reducing the points given to me (I have also received a cell phone use ticket in November, 2011 in Brooklyn, NY). The problem with pleading not guilty is that I am under the impression I will then have to appear in the Hudson, NY-area courthouse — which is about 300 miles from where I live in New York City. The first question I have — is there a way to “appear in court” by mail, online, etc?
The other question I have extends towards the assessment fee for when you hit a certain amount of points on your license. I already have the points for the cell phone ticket and have to consider I will be getting points for this ticket as well. However, I have a CT-state issued license and CT license plates. Do I still have to be wary of this assessment fee for NY state?
Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated, thanks!
B.P.
Baxter,
Most courts require that the motorist or his lawyer appear. You can call the court and see if this is the case in your court. Otherwise, you can retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
You are still required to pay the Driver Assessment Fee even as an out-of-state driver. The Driver Assessment Fee is $525 for 9 points (6 for the speeding and 3 for the cell phone).
Matthew Weiss
So it would almost make sense to go to court (if I can appear mobilly) to fight the ticket to attempt to reduce the points to avoid the driver assessment fee, IYO?
Yes, I believe that you should fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can get a more favorable outcome.
Matthew Weiss
HELP PLEASE!!!
I reside outside of the country currently and I have not resided in NYS for over ten years now!
I was told at an address that I occasionally use for mailing back in the USA that I received a letter in February 2013 from the New York State DMV stating that I am not allowed to drive in NYS due to non-appearance on a traffic violation from – get this:
………………..
………………..
1995!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes, that IS correct, 1995…also known as eighteen years ago!
Mr. Weiss Sir, I cannot even remember WHAT I had for breakfast this morning, much less if I was INDEED OPERATING a motor vehicle in some podunk town 18 years ago and had committed an infraction!!
Soooo……..
A) – IS THERE any time frame of WHEN a municipal court has to inform the DMV of suspension due to non-appearance by??? Eighteen years seems contrary to most statutes of limitations?
B) – I had left NYS State in 1995 and I had RETURNED FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR to reside there in 2002. At that time in 2002, I had exchanged my out-of-state driver’s license for a New York State license and THEY GAVE ME BACK THEE SAME LICENSE NUMBER THAT I ORIGINALLY POSSESSED!
My question here being – WHY wasn’t this SUPPOSED, ALLEGED infraction noted at THAT time when I reclaimed my NYS license in 2002?? Can I use this fact in my favor when I try to get this dismissed?
C) – WHAT should I do about this??
Many Thanks!
E.S.
OH! Sorry, forgot –
ALSO, IF for some bizarre the State of New York decides that it needs me to help ease its $1Billion debt, should i insist on paying the official fine AT THE TIME of the infraction (1995), or do I get stuck paying today’s fines?
Probably thee most bizarre thing I have seen NYS do!,
You should only be charged within the fine range that was in effect back in 1995. You will also have to pay a $70 suspension termination fee.
Matthew Weiss
Probably thee most bizarre thing I have seen NYS do!
Answers in bold following your questions below.
A) – IS THERE any time frame of WHEN a municipal court has to inform the DMV of suspension due to non-appearance by??? Eighteen years seems contrary to most statutes of limitations? No, unfortunately.
B) – I had left NYS State in 1995 and I had RETURNED FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR to reside there in 2002. At that time in 2002, I had exchanged my out-of-state driver’s license for a New York State license and THEY GAVE ME BACK THEE SAME LICENSE NUMBER THAT I ORIGINALLY POSSESSED!
My question here being – WHY wasn’t this SUPPOSED, ALLEGED infraction noted at THAT time when I reclaimed my NYS license in 2002?? Can I use this fact in my favor when I try to get this dismissed? They missed it unfortunately but that does not excuse the fact that you apparently failed to answer the ticket.
C) – WHAT should I do about this?? Assuming your ticket cannot result in a suspension or revocation (ex., speeding 31+ mph, no insurance, etc). then just pay the ticket and suspension termination fee.
Matthew Weiss
I am a NJ driver and I got a speeding ticket on West Shore Expwy in Staten Island for speeding at 71 in a 50 zone. While I was actually doing 64 mph and more or less going with the traffic in the right lane. It is 6 points in NY but I believe 2 points transfer to NJ. I do not understand why would the officer write 71 instead of 64 on the ticket. Should I contest? He never mentioned my speed before or after giving the ticket. What are my options?
Aamin,
You are correct, this ticket is 6 points in NY and only will transfer as 2 points onto to your NJ license. You should contest it as you are faced with a serious ticket that carries 6 points, a possible insurance hike and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee. Fighting it is the only way to possibly save points and money.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hello.
Yesterday I received a speeding ticket on the LIE at exit 71 for a 95/55.
I had cruise control on at about 78. Not sure what I should do.
Chris,
This is a serious offense as it carries 8 points, a hefty fine, a $600 Driver Assessment Fee and, most importantly, a possible suspension. You should therefore plead not guilty and fight this ticket. This is the only way to obtain a more positive result.
Matthew Weiss
Hello, I received a speeding tickets a year and half ago my court day is in 4 days. I received one for speed zone 11-30 and I think it was for doing 60 in a 40. I know I wasn’t going that fast and I’m not sure if it was by radar or the officers judgement. Also that day there were 5 cars going faster then me and passed me. He actually caught me on the red light. I was the only car that stopped out of the group. He went on a loud speaker and told me to pull to the right and I was all the way in the left lane. So he made me on the red light pull pass the 3 other lanes to my right to stop. Will I have a case to fight? Thank you
Amanda,
You should definitely plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you may be able to save points and avoid an insurance hike.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
Last Wednesday (Jan 9th) I got a speeding ticket in Queens (NYC) on the Grand Central Parkway at 6:20am on my way to work on Long Island. The ticket was for 74mph in a 50mph zone. Is there anything that I can do to get this ticket reduced to “under 21mph over speed limit” violation as I understand the 24mph violation will be at least 6 points plus $300 assessment fee. I’ve been told that there is no plea bargaining in NYC and only way to fight ticket is to take it to trial. Is that true? I have not had any type of traffic violation in past 15 years and just completed 6 hour NYS Accident Prevention Workshop in Nov 2012 to reduce my insurance costs.
Jeff,
There is no plea bargaining in New York City. However, sometimes the court will reduce a charge if the officer’s margin of error falls within the lower speeding category (for example, in your case, when the officer’s visual estimate is 70 mph or less). Further, you have nothing to lose by pleading not guilty and trying.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hello
I received a speeding ticket in may of 2012 for 15 mph over the limit, 60/45, in the town of Clarence, NY. I am currently undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer and have postponed my pretrial conference twice. I called today 1/2/2013 to get another postponement and was instructed to send a letter to the prosecutor requesting all correspondence be done via mail since I will be unlikely to appear until summer of 2013. My driving record is 100% clean amd being that I am going through a serious time in my life I’d like nothing more than to remove this worry from my mind. Would it be possible to let me know what steps will occur next? Thank you very much for the help.
Maggie,
I’m sorry to hear about your medical issue. I hope you have a full recovery.
In regard to your case, you may want to retain an experienced NY traffic lawyer to appear for you. This way you will not be inconvenienced while you deal with your treatment. Alternatively, you can plead guilty but I don’t recommend it. This ticket carries 4 points and roughly a $200 fine. If you fight it, you likely can save or even avoid the points.
Best,
Matthew Weiss
I got a speeding ticket on the Verrazano Bridge. The ticket says I was doing 75mph in a 45mph zone. However, I got a notice in the mail saying that an appearance is mandatory and that I’m being charged with “Speed in zone 31+”. Since this is not correct (the ticket is 30 over the limit, not 30+), I’m going to plead not guilty. Do I have a chance to beat the whole thing, or will they just drop the “31+” charge down to 30mph over the limit?
Barry,
You have very little chance of beating this speeding ticket all together as Staten Island is the toughest traffic court in New York. It sounds like you have a great argument for a reduction, however. I highly recommend that you take the NY Driver Safety Class before your court date. This class will remove 4 of the points from your speeding ticket if you are convicted and will also make it less likely that the traffic judge will suspend you.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for your response, Matthew. Is it imperative that I go to court in Staten Island? I was under the impression that I could show up at any traffic court in NYC. I have to appear before 12/31, and I was planning to go this Thursday and plead ‘not guilty’. I would imagine it would then be scheduled for a date when the officer also appear. I don’t see how I can plead guilty to 31+ over the limit (or be convicted of it) if the officer said I was going 30 over.
Barry,
To fight your NYC traffic ticket, you must appear in the court that is assigned to adjudicate it. If you jut want to get a date or plead guilty, then you can go to any TVB court for these limited activities.
In regard to pleading not guilty, you do not have to appear in any court. On the ticket, the TVB website address is listed. You can plead not guilty online.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Hey Matthew,
I just received my first speeding ticket tonight on a university’s campus circle (44mph at 25mph). According to the chart you provided, it would be 4 points on my license and about 150 fine I guess.
I will plea not guilty as you advised. I would appreciate your thoughts on this. Is there a chance to get this case dismissed?
Thanks in Advance,
Jim
Jimmy,
That’s right, this speeding ticket carries 4 points and roughly a $150 fine. Dismissals of speeding tickets are very hard to obtain. The two most common ways are if the officer doesn’t show up for your trial (sometimes two or more “no shows” are needed) and when a supporting deposition is demanded and the officer fails to send it within 30 days of the demand. The latter is only available if your officer did not serve the supporting deposition (with your speeding ticket) at the time of your car stop and you timely demand it (i.e., within 48 hours of the issuance of the ticket or within 30 days of the arraignment date). Otherwise, you can likely negotiate a reduction to a less serious charge at a pre-trial conference.
Matthew Weiss
I got a 65 in 45 ticket on Nov18 on #219 between Great Valley and Ellicottille NY. I planned to plead not gyilty and ask for a plea bargain ( I have to drive from Ontario to attend) but just noticed the Not Guilty plea must be mailed “within 48 hours. The court will notify you of your appearance date””. The other side of the ticket states that I must “return by mail before or in person on Dec. 5/12” Does this mean that since I am past the 48 hr period that I must appear on Dec. 5 if I want to plead not guilty?
Terry Clarridge,
I recommend that you overnight your not guilty plea and follow up by call the court. You should be all right even though technically its been more than 48 hours.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
Is it correct that it doesn’t matter if I answered the ticket within 48 hours as long as I appear on the appearance date on the ticket?
Terry Clarridge,
Yes, as long as you or your traffic lawyer personally appear and answer the ticket on the court date (i.e., appearance date) listed on the ticket, then you will be fine. Keep in mind that, in many cases, you are only able to enter your plea on the appearance date and, therefore, will have to return to dispose of your case.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I recieved a ticket in Wawayanada NY on 6/22/2012, for 60mph in a 45mph zone.
I hold a CT licensce and believe points do not transfere. I have a clean record.
I am going to the Appearance/Pre-Trial Conference tonight hoping to negotiate a low fine with full points.
I think the officer listed the location incorrectly.
You thoughts would be appreciated.
Thank You,
Phil De Ricco
Philip,
Dress neat and be polite. You should be able to negotiate this down to a 2-point NY ticket (or perhaps a 0-point ticket).
Good luck tonight and let us know what happens.
Matthew Weiss
I’m 21 years old had my license for over 3 years clean record this is my first speeding ticket and first time got pulled over. I was on 96/65 in New State, I was trying to speed to get on the right lane because cars behind me were flashing their lights behind me in the left lane. The State patrol came from the opposite direction through an opening and I didn’t know it was for me thought it was for the car behind me. So he stopped me and said he could have taken me to jail for going that fast. I tried to explain to him and he said shut up. Anyways he gave me the ticket and I have to send in guilty or not guilty and don’t know what to do? Plus I took the defensive course 4 months ago will that still help with points reduction when I get them?
Thanks
Mohamed,
You should plead not guilty to this speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can save points as well as the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
The NY Driver Safety Class will not help you save points because apparently you took it before you got your speeding ticket.
Matthew Weiss
I’m from Canada, my fiance is near Albany. Received a ticket – 81 in a 65 on I90 near Syracuse. I was speeding, but I have a very clean record, no traffic violations in over 20 years, and absolutely no criminal record. The date to appear is a Wednesday, which I cannot do. Should I just plead guilty and suck it up? Or plead not guilty and attach an explanation?
FianceeInAHurry,
If you live in Ontario or Quebec, you may want to fight this speeding ticket. Because a NY conviction will transfer onto your record in those two provinces, it may be worth fighting. If you fight the ticket by pleading not guilty, you likely can reduce or avoid demerit points. If you cannot appear in the court, then you can retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer who can appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I just got pulled over for doing 92 in a 65 on my way home from visiting a college, I have a clean record never a ticket under my name, and no accidents under my name. Should I plead not guilty to the charge? I would show up in Court but Im four and a half hours away from the spot I got pulled over. Also what are the consequences of this?
Gary,
Because a NY conviction to a 92/65 carries 6 points, roughly a $200 fine and a $300 Driver Assessment Fee, I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you cannot appear in court, then you can hire a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I have a NY license and I got a ticket doing 91 on a 50 in West Virginia. My issue is I already have 6 points on my license because I am in the driver responsibility program in NY. I know I should probably hire a lawyer to fight it but is there a way to prevent it being reported to NY so my insurance and points don’t go up on my license? Any other helpful recommendations would be appreciated.
Mike,
A West Virginia conviction will NOT transfer as points onto your NY license. Such a conviction will be reported to NY and therefore could adversely affect your insurance. Also, this is a very high speed. You should definitely consult with a West Virginia traffic lawyer about it as a conviction could possibly result in a West Virginia suspension which NY would honor.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I got a speeding ticket for driving at 76mph in 65mph zone in saratoga county,NY. I have NJ drivers license. Should i plea not guilty? On the ticket I received there are 2 sections: plea of guilty and plea of not guilty.Under the section of plea of not guilty there is a note saying “mail this not guilty plea within 48hrs.the court will notify by mail of your appearance date.” I can not drive there for court date. Can I do this via mail ? What are the charges for this kind of ticket? Please suggest.
Thank you in advance.
Joshi,
YOu should plead not guilty. If you do, you can likely save NY points and possibly NJ points too. If you cannot appear in the Saratoga court, then you can retain a NY traffic lawyer who can appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
All,
In my experience its always worth fighting a speeding ticket. Over the past 12 years I’ve gotten 4 tickets and got them all dismissed. You see most of the time the officer doesn’t even show up! Especially if you live in NYC five boroughs. Usually the officer has to appear somewhere else more important, is on vacation/off, or retires. One of the tickets I didn’t even have to appear in court, it was dismissed by mail. Last time I went 15 people had hearings and only one cop showed up for 2 tickets. Everyone else was dismissed! Doesn’t always work but I’ve had friends do the same thing and only one had to plea guilty to get a deal which gave him no points, paid a fine, took a safety driving class – which is still a good deal!
Thanks and good luck!
Travis,
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I agree that you should always plead not guilty and show up but don’t agree that the NYC police officers don’t show up “most of the time”. Actually, most of the time they do show up. Of course, you always should try.
Matthew Weiss
Dear Mr. Weiss-
I was ticketed for disobeying pavement markings. I was following a line of cars entering the Gowanus from the Prospect Expressway inbound. The cars, myself included, crossed from the entry lane over hash marks to the left lanes that allow me to proceed to the tunnel. At least 4 cars in front of me and a couple behind did that. Unfortunately, the Highway Officer pulled me over down the hill. Also, he said nothing as to why I was pulled over, merely asked for my license, came back with the summons and only told me why I was stopped after I asked him when he was turning to leave. He said I was 400 yards from the broken white line.
This is my first summons in nearly 30 years. I pleaded not guilty and my hearing is coming up in 2 weeks in Brooklyn. How do I fight this (other than hope the officer doesn’t show)?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best,
Mike
Mike,
This is an extremely broad questions that I cannot answer in a short blog post. With that said, I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket At The Traffic Violations Bureau“. It should help you better understand what you’re up against.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I just recieved a ticket for going 54mph in a 30mph zone in Nassau County, NY. I did not realize I was traveling at this rate of speed. Unaware that the speed limit was 30 mph, I retraced my steps and indeed found it to be 30mph. However, there were no street lights and the sign was partially covered by tree overgrowth. Even with headlights the sign was a bit difficult to see. I intend to plead not guilty but what is my best option for a reduced fine/less points?
Thank you,
David
David,
In Nassau County Traffic Violations & Parking Agency, you likely can negotiate this down to a 2- or 3-point ticket. Just plead not guilty and, on your court conference, you can negotiate a more favorable outcome.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew,
Thank you for your prompt response. Would it be wise to hire an attorney for this or should I just represent myself?
Thanks,
David
David,
I suggest that you call a NY traffic lawyer and have a consultation. Then you can make an informed decision. In some instances, I recommend hiring an attorney but, in others, I do not.
Matthew Weiss
212-683-7373
I just got a ticket in the villiage of angola ny the other day. I aparently was going 51 in a 30. About 2 years ago, I was convicted of a ticket in North Carolina for an improper equipment. About 10 months after that I got into a small fender bender but the cop said it wasnt my fault so he didn’t give me a ticket. I was woundering if I got a lawyer could he get it knocked to a non moving violation so it doesn’t affect my insurance. I honestly didn’t know it was 30 mph because it was a backroad going out of the village and if you use that road to come in to the village it is 55.
Leslie,
You should definitely fight this NY speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can save NY points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee. A lawyer can most likely can get it knocked down to a less serious moving violation. It is possible that it can be knocked down to a 0-point ticket but that is less common.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
I have a PA license/registration, and was recently pulled over doing 87 in a 55 in NY. I received two tickets, “speed not prudent or reasonable”, and “speeding above 55”. I have not had any tickets or traffic violations in over 8 years. The officer who pulled me over actually noted this, and told me that if I’m mailing in my plea (which I would do due to the distance), that I should write a note to the judge and note that my driving record has been clean for a very long time, and that sometimes this will lower/eliminate the ticket.
Do you have any advice on this?
Thanks in advance!
-Scott
Scott Sullivan,
Points from a NY conviction will not transfer onto your PA license. However, a NY conviction will be reported to PA and can be used by your PA insurance company in determining your rates. Further, NY will keep track of points accumulated here and can suspend you as if you were a NY driver. Here you are looking at a total of 11 points (8 points for the 87/55 and 3 for the unreasonable speed). Because NY can suspend you for 11 points, I highly recommend that you fight these tickets. I also recommend that you consult with a NY traffic ticket lawyer.
If you fight these tickets, you likely can save money and points, and avoid a suspension.
Matthew Weiss
Hey Matt,
I got speeding ticket driving 94 in 65mph (1180d) in wayland, NY and am planning to plead not guilty. I got my licence from NY before 6months and never had a ticket before. I live 300miles away from the court and deciding whether to go by myself or hire an attorney. I was wondering what are my chances of lowering the points? Also the comments wrote by the officer (under the form) are not entirely true stating that i lowered my speed as soon i saw the cop etc.. Let me know what do you think is the next step..thanks.
Patel,
You should plead not guilty. If you do, you (or your NY traffic ticket lawyer) can likely get this reduced to a less serious charge saving you points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
Matt,
Great site and very kind of you to respond to everyone. On Sat Sept 15 my 17 year old daughter got a ticket on I90 in Albany for “speeding in a posted work zone” . The officer said she was going 72 in a 55 zone. She was moving with the flow of traffic and her mother was the passenger. Should she fight this, and does the work zone incur additional penalties? Does it even apply if there is no work going on during a Saturday?
Bruce Scott,
Thanks for your nice praise. I recommend that you daughter plead not guilty and fight this 4-point speeding ticket. If she does, she likely can save points and avoid an insurance hike.
Check out my post entitled “Speeding In A Work Area Speed Zone” for additional helpful information.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matt,
So I just got my first speeding ticket: 77 in a 55 in Suffolk County, NY! They don’t have plea bargains at their court and I can’t afford to pay the fine for the 6 points and then the Driver Assessment fee and then the increase in insurance. What should I do? If I decide to fight, can I do it alone? I obtained a copy of my driving record and the only violation on it is for a cellphone in 2010. I have 13 days before choosing my plea. I appreciate the advice.
– Jac
Jac,
You (or your NY traffic ticket lawyer) should plead not guilty and fight this ticket. This is the only way to try and get less points, save money and avoid an insurance hike.
Also, you should read my post about the Suffolk County TVB entitled “Governor Cuomo Signs Bill Establishing New Suffolk Traffic Court“. Big changes are possibly coming to that court.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Mr. Weiss
I got a traffic ticket back in May here on Staten Island. I was pulled over on the service road coming off the expressway. The officer said i was doing 50mph in a 30mph zone. Plus it was in a school zone however this occured at around 630pm when school isnt in session. I honestly think I wasnt going that fast. Also the officer was parked way ahead on the service road so i dont know how he could of known my speed unless by lazer, radar, etc. This is my first speeding ticket ever and i have been driving for 8 years. I was convicted of DWI back in February of 2008 however my license has been clean since then. Will that play a part in this speeding ticket? Should I even try to fight this ticket?? Thanks for your time.
Alex,
It is VERY hard to beat a speeding ticket in Staten Island. In fact, it is the hardest court to win a case in New York State.
With that said, you have nothing to lose by fighting it (other than your time). Given your otherwise clean record, I wouldn’t hire an attorney however as it likely won’t make a difference.
Matthew Weiss
I received a speeding ticket in Michigan last Monday for going 61 in a 45, but he only marked 50 in a 45. On remarks he did put down the actual speed though. It’s been a long while since I have received a ticket and it was suggested I write a letter and ask for the ticket being taken under advisement, should i bother? I have no idea how fast i was going and thought I was going with the flow of traffic. Only excuse is that I was on my way to the vet with a dog with a heart condition in the back and my mind was on my dog 🙁 Not really an excuse…..
Sonja,
I don’t know Michigan law so I cannot competently answer your question. Try contacting a Michigan traffic lawyer.
Good luck.
Matthew Weiss
Thanks for the quick feedback
Matthew Weiss,
First off I’d like to say thank you already. You have a pretty awesome forum going on here, and thank you for taking time to answer everyone back, not many people would do this.
I live on long island, in nassua county, and this morning I got pulled over for doing 87mph on a 55mph parkway, I am 17 going to be 18 and I just got my license a little over 2 months ago, witch means I’m still I probation. I have to appear in court in October and I was just wondering what you thought would happen, like will I get the full 8 points and pay around 600 dollars for this, or will I get my license suspended? I also was wondering if I should ask for a conference even though I’ll already be at the court?
Thank you again, hope to hear from you soon
Daniel
Daniel,
Thanks for your kind comments. Most people are appreciative of my efforts but it is always nice when someone posts such nice praise.
Because you have a NY probationary license, you will be suspended if you are convicted of this 8-point speeding ticket. Therefore, you should definitely plead not guilty. This is the only way to possibly avoid a suspension.
You will be given an opportunity at the Nassau County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency to conference the case and hopefully obtain a more favorable result.
Matthew Weiss
I recently got a red light ticket in NYC. I noticed that the officer signed his name but did not print it. Is that grounds for dismissal?
Fayga,
You most likely will NOT beat your ticket on these grounds. Unlike parking ticket, most of these technical arguments about the completion of a NY traffic ticket do not work.
Matthew Weiss
I just recieved a 87mph in a 65mph. I am not able to attend the court date. I am a NJ resident and got my ticket in upstate NY. I have no previous driving record. Any advice would be much appreciated.
Lee,
You should plead not guilty and fight this 6-point NY speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can get less NY points and save the $300 Driver Assessment Fee. If you cannot or do not want to appear in court, then you can retain a NY traffic lawyer who can appear in your place.
BTW, a NY conviction to this charge will transfer as 2 points on your NJ license.
Matthew Weiss
Matthew Weiss
I received a speeding ticket in Bronx, NY on highway I-95: 74 in a 50 mph zone.
I live in CT and had only one speeding ticket on my record in CT, about 3 years ago with no points. My insurance premium didn’t go up since then.
This NY ticket carries 6 points and additional $300 Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee on the top of ticket fee. If I plead guilty I will receive a conviction that might be recorded in my CT state. By fighting this ticket I might get it reduced to maybe 4 points and avoid $300 Driver Assessment Fee. However I still would be convicted and had to pay traffic lawyer to represent me. Chances of getting it dismissed are very low. I am pretty sure that NYC will do everything to make me pay since they need money.
Since points from NY do not transfer to CT does it make sense to fight this ticket?
Neither way I will get conviction since I have to deal with TBV and I can’t plead bargain. The difference will be either 4 or 6 points, but they do not transfer to CT.
Can my GEICO insurance find out how many points I accumulated in NY and surcharge me for them, even if they don’t show up on my CT driving record?
If my insurance can surcharge me for 6 points in NY can I take an online driver safety class to remove any points from my NY record even if I am out-of-state?
I won’t have any desire to drive into NY State for next 18 months.
I will appreciate your advice.
Thank you.
Adam
Adam,
A NY conviction will be reported to CT and, therefore, your insurance company could find out about it and use it against you. Given your clean record, I suggest that you call your insurance company and ask it what, if any, consequences you’ll face.
Good luck!
Matthew Weiss
I received a speeding ticket in Patterson,NY on highway 84: 90 in a 65mph zone. I live in Ct and have a clean record. I will be 4 hrs away at school and won’t be able to appear in court if I plead ‘not guilty’. What are my options? Is it worth pleading ‘not guilty’ or should I just pay the fine? Can I plea by mail?
Michelle,
You should plead not guilty and fight this ticket. If you do, you likely can save NY points, the $300 Driver Assessment Fee and possibly avoid an insurance hike.
If you cannot appear in court, then you can retain a NY traffic lawyer who can appear for you. We represent 1,000s of motorists each year and most never step foot into traffic court.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I just received a ticket for going 64 in a 30, the thing is I wasnt speeding I dont know where the cop got the 64mph! It states on the ticket that 64 in 30 (laser). My mother was in the car with and she knows I wasnt speeding because she constantly checks my speedometer. This happened on the prospect expy in brooklyn.
Please help I really need to beat this ticket.
Alex,
This speeding ticket carries 8 points, roughly a $300 fine and $450 Driver Assessment Fee. You could even be suspended for this one ticket (although most judges will not suspend for an 8-point speeding ticket if your record is otherwise clean). Given the serious of the charge and the fact that they do not plea bargain at the Brooklyn Traffic Violations Bureau, I recommend that you retain an experienced NY traffic lawyer to help you.
Matthew Weiss
Hello Matthew,
I recently received a notice that my license will be suspended n regards to a ticket issued in 2003.
So, I called the court and asked what the ticket was in regards to. I was told the ticket was for 86 in a 65. This means that the ticket would be in the 21 – 30 mph over speed limit 6 points range.
I was told that I had failed to plead either guilty/not guilty. I recall mailing in the ticket pleading not guilty and requesting the officer’s supporting deposition. Approximately two months after I had been issued the ticket I was deployed for 18 months by the military. My wife never received any parcels in regards to the ticket while I was gone.
My question is what steps do I need to take to continue to plead not guilty and what case do I have since it took the court about 9 years to address this issue?
I was going to plead not guilty, request a copy of the ticket and request the officer’s deposition again, but I do not know if that is the best approach or where to go from there.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Mark,
How you proceed depends in the court in which your case is returnable. Email or fax me paperwork on this matter and I’ll tell you what to do.
Matthew Weiss
mweiss@888redlight.com
212-726-0135 fax
Hey Matthew,
First off this is an amazing form thanks for all the information. So yesterday I was pulled over and given a speeding ticket in the Bronx for doing 75 on a 50, which is 6 points. This is my first speeding ticket, but I have had an offense for eating a stop sign, and an improper lane changed totaling to 5 points. Currently only 3 points for the lane change I believe is on my license. My question is would I be given a plea deal or given a reduced ticket and points because it’s my first speeding ticket? Will I have to attend court or is there a way to ask for a plea through mail. I’m also 24 years old and I’m just nervous with insurance rates and points on my license. I haven’t responded guilty or not guilty yet because I received the ticket yesterday; what do you think I should do?
Jonathan,
Thanks for your kind remarks. I appreciate it.
There is no plea bargaining in the Bronx traffic court. It is “all or nothing” if you plead not guilty. I wrote an article entitled “Fighting A Traffic Ticket at the Traffic Violation Bureau“. It will help you understand better the process of fighting a NYC speeding ticket.
You (or your NY traffic lawyer) will have to appear in court if you fight this ticket.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
Over a year ago I got a ticket for 50 in a 30. The cop didn’t pull me over until the 45 mph zone and a few miles into it and there is no way from where I was stopped to turn onto the road my car got up to 50 mph in that short of time. I have court tomorrow. Should I just plea bargain it for a reduced charge or actually try to fight it? I have no current points on my license. Also if points are only good for 18months and this happened over a year ago will the points only be on my license for a few more months and then they are gone?
Thanks!
Jenn,
If your court allows for plea bargaining, then definitely explore this option. This is a 4-point ticket so see if can get it reduced to 0 or 2 points. For insurance purposes, a 16+ mph speed can result in your insurance being raised. So, at the very least, you want a reduction to a speeding ticket that is 15 mph (or less) over the limit (or even a non-speed).
If you are convicted, the DMV points will be measured back from the date of offense and remain on your record for 18 months from the date of the offense for purposes of DMV. For purposes of insurance, the conviction is measured from the date of conviction and the points remain on your record for 36 months.
Good luck tomorrow.
Matthew Weiss
Hi,
I am from Ontario and was ticketed for going 73mph in a 55 zone in the town of West Seneca NY. I saw in one of your postings that there are mail plea bargains in some areas. Would I be able to make a plea bargain by mail for this court? I have a nearly flawless record and would like to keep it that way for the sake of insurance rates.
Nathan
Nathan,
Because points from New York transfer to Ontario, we recommend that you fight this speeding ticket. If you do, you likely can reduce or avoid demerit points. The West Seneca traffic court will engage in plea bargaining. You will have to contact the court to determine whether it will plea by mail.
Matthew Weiss
Hi Matthew,
Got a question for you. Last month while rushing to the hospital (to see a dying relative), I was pulled over for doing 70+ in a 40 and 3 unsafe lane changes. After confirming with the hospital I was going to a emergency the officer wrote me a 60/40 and gave me only one unsafe lane change ticket. This equals 7 points. In the supporting deposition the officer wrote I was doing more 60+ and he had seen 2 unsafe lane changes but gave me only one ticket.
Officer also told me this is a pleabargain court and since its my first offense they will drop it. I am 18 years old, been driving for 2 years. I pleaded not guilty and got a date for 8/15.
Yesterday I was going downhill and pulled over by a town cop for doing 75/55, he also gave me a tint/no plate ticket (fixit). I got those signed off today but still have the 75/55 to worry about. Its 4 pts.
The date on this ticket is 8/15 as well (SAME COURT), it says when I plead not guilty they will give me a new date by first class mail. MY QUESTIONS please help.
When I go to court on 8/15 to the plea bargain court to get my first two tickets negotiated will the prosecutor be able to see my third ticket that I was given yesterday? I don’t want to go for all 3 at the same time, I feel that the prosecutor might see the third one and try to get that one done on 8/15. Because all that is 11 pts.
Or will they do it on a different date? Because it says on ticket 8/15 but if i plead not guilty they send me a new date.
I was planning going myself on 8/15 and I think I can get them knocked down greatly to 2-3 points, and was planning to delay the ticket I got yesterday and eventally hiring a lawyer.
please help thanks
Sona,
Answers follow each of your questions below.
When I go to court on 8/15 to the plea bargain court to get my first two tickets negotiated will the prosecutor be able to see my third ticket that I was given yesterday? He will likely know about all of your tickets. In any event, in my experience, I believe that you’re better off resolving ALL of your tickets in one shot. You’ll likely get a better overall outcome.
I was planning going myself on 8/15 and I think I can get them knocked down greatly to 2-3 points, and was planning to delay the ticket I got yesterday and eventally hiring a lawyer. This is not a question but my advice would be to go there and try and work out a plea bargain for all of your tickets.
Matthew Weiss
Thank you so much Matthew for your advice! I don’t think I was charged with aggravated un-licensed misdemeanor- I haven’t driven for years since 2009 (much before my license was suspended on 03/15/2012).
If I show up at a court, how much would you say the approximate charge/fine will be? Also, If I just plead guilty and pay the total fine, will it stay in my record and affect me later (such as employment background checks, citizenship?)?
Gracie,
The fines will be roughly $200 per ticket. If you accumulate 6 or more NY points, then you’ll also have to pay a $300+ Driver Assessment Fee. If you plead guilty, it will not affect your citizenship and most employment opportunities (unless you plead guilty to a misdemeanor like aggravated un-licensed).
Matthew Weis
Hi Matthew,
I found your posting very helpful. I was wondering if you could also help me with some advice. I’d really appreciate it.
I got two traffic tickets three years ago (october 2008 – Speed work zone & OP MV Mobile Phone) in the town of greenburgh when I was completely lost after dark. It was when I just moved from Chicago to New York for a new job for a month or so and my car was still registered with the Illinois. I drove to a business meeting somewhere in up state and didn’t know much about the area so I was completely lost. It was also after dark so I wasn’t aware that i was driving work zone speedying (I believe my speed was 65 when the limit was 50-55). I was completely lost and scared – had to call someone to get directions but it was on the speaker phone. I explained the situation to the police officer but she didn’t care. The ticket said the court date if I wanted to plead not-guilty and I faxed the letter to the court for re-scheduling the date as i couldn’t make it due to work.
And then apparently, they have been sending all the notices to my old address in Chicago where the car was registered there at the time of incident, up until this March 2012. They sent me a returned enveloped notice letter on March 13, 2012 (which I received on March 14, 2012 – I don’t know how they found out my new york address then?). It said my driver’s license would be suspended if I don’t pay/reply by 03/15/2012. I called next day on 03/15 but they already said it was already suspended.
By the way, I got rid of the car three years ago.
I strongly feel that it is unfair and I wanted to get more information and resources. At this point, my driver license is suspended and in order to terminate this suspension, I will need to pay $70 scofflaw suspension termination fee for each ticket ($140) on the top of the penalties. When I called the town, they said that if I just plead guilty, then it would cost me $710 total. If I want to plead not-guilty then, I would have an option of showing up at the court anytime on Mon or Wednesday.
I feel helpless. I work for a nonprofit and $710 is not something I can afford. I live very far so can’t get there easily. And my English is limited and I never have been in the court defending myself like this. What should I do?
Gracie,
The $140 suspension termination fees cannot be waived. A motorist must pay them for each suspension that he or she wants to lift. In terms of the fines, if you appear in court, then you likely can get these cases reduced to less serious charges and lower fines. Of course, if you do not want to return to NY, then you can hire a traffic lawyer to appear for you. Unfortunately, the attorney’s fee will likely be more than the amount that you can save.
By the way, if you’ve been charged with aggravated un-licensed (it’s not clear from your posting), then you definitely want to fight this charge. Aggravated un-licensed is a misdemeanor (criminal charge) and, therefore, not something that you should allow to be added to your license.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I was wondering if you could help me. My wife was pulled over in the town of Covington in Wyoming County NY. She was charged with going 76 in a 55. Problem is that i live in Delaware about 8 hours away and really dont want to drive bac!k up there to court to fight it but I dont want her to gett that $300 driver improvement fine. Do you think we could negotiate a plea on the phone? And also what type of points in Delaware would she be looking at? Any help you could provide would be great. Thanks.
Joe
Joe,
You would have to contact the court to find out whether you can negotiate a plea bargain via the mail. If so, definitely do so. Otherwise, you can retain a NY traffic lawyer who can help you. For an understanding of the interplay between a NY conviction and your DE license, you should speak with a Delaware traffic lawyer.
Matthew Weiss
Hello,
I was pulled over today on the parkway, The cop was going the other way, and I didn’t realize that I was doing about 70, And i then slowed down to 55, then about 4 minutes later, the cop comes up behind me and pull’s me over, saying I was doing 71, He then gave me a tick for doing 71 in a 55. He said that i could just mail in the ticket so i didnt have to drive an hour to the court house to hand it in. This is the first time I’ve been pulled over and have gotten a ticket. What do i do? should I plea Not guilty, I was told by several people to plead “Not Guilty” But this is my first time so I have no idea what to do. What will happen? What should i expect? Will it get dropped seeing this is my first time? will i get the 4 points on my license? I’m so lost on what to do, I really need your help.
Thank you, Laura.
Laura,
Because this ticket carries 4 points and can hurt your insurance rates, I recommend that you plead not guilty and fight this traffic ticket. If you do, you likely can negotiate this down to a less serious charge and avoid an insurance hike. If you don’t want to drive 1 hour to the court, then you can always retain a NY traffic ticket lawyer to appear for you.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss –
I received a speeding ticket for 50/40 in April ’11 in Rockland County. I pled not guilty and have received a Pre-Trial Conference notice. It’s only 2 points, and only my 2nd speeding ticket in 30 years. I plead NG at the time because I was unemployed. I’m working now and it will be difficult to attend this hearing and any subsequent court dates, so I’m willing to just accept a conviction and get it over with. Problem is I have a DWI conviction from July ’04. Will the combination of the DWI and the speeding ticket lead to increased insurance rates, NYS Driver Assessment fees, etc? I have to state that my insurance rates did NOT increase after the DWI conviction. Please advise – thanks.
S. McD,
The DWI and the speeding together will not raise your rates. Insurance companies cannot use a DWI conviction from 7 to 8 years ago in determining your rates. Further, your new speeding ticket (50/40) is too low for it alone to raise your rates. A second conviction, however, within 36 months can result in your insurance rates increasing.
Bottom line, you are okay for now.
Matthew Weiss
Evening Mr. Weiss,
Recently received a speeding ticket on I-84 New York State, 79 in a 55.
I hand delivered my ticket to the court. The woman behind the counter said ” I see the trooper requested a particular judge.” is this legal? I’ve read that trooper writ notes on there tickets that doesn’t print out for us to see. I questioned a few police officers on my way out of court and was told that cannot be done. Would this be worth requesting copies and persuing in hopes of beating this ticket? Greatly appreciate you input, look forward to your response.
Regards,
Christopher
Christopher,
Police officers often takes notes about car stops. Those notes can sometimes be helpful for your defense. I recommend that you first appear at your initial court date and try and negotiate a plea bargain. If you do, you likely can get this 6-point reduced saving you points and the $300 Driver Assessment Fee.
Matthew Weiss
Mr. Weiss,
First I must say thank you for keeping a blog like this, I have been searching for similar situations to mine because I am worried about points and such & was seeking some kind of advice. I was given a speeding ticket this morning in Nassau County (Long Island) for doing 47 in a 30mph zone. My driving record is clean & I have no violations on my license. I don’t really know what to expect or if I should plead guilty or not guilty, so any kind of advice would be greatly appreciated.
Nicole,
Thanks for your kind praise. You should plead not guilty. If you do, you (or your traffic lawyer) can likely negotiate this ticket down to a less serious charge (i.e., save you points and a possible insurance hike).
Matthew Weiss