Speeding and Traffic Ticket Fines and Penalties in New York
Getting a traffic ticket is no fun, but it doesn’t have to be a headache. Understanding New York traffic tickets fines and penalties is easier than you think. We’ve outlined all the essentials to help you understand what you’ll need to know when you get pulled over in the state of New York.
Basic Fines and Penalties
Traffic violations in New York are determined by the local court. A traffic ticket in New York City could result in a completely different fine than if you commit the same offense in Albany. On top of the actual cost associated with that moving violation, additional fines and surcharges could be tacked on. A simple speeding ticket can go from costing $45 to $300 when surcharges and court fees are assessed. Look closely at your New York traffic ticket for the associated fine, then contact your local court to inquire about additional fees.
Points and Fees
Traffic tickets in New York are assessed a point value based on the severity of the offense. For example, some minor traffic violations carry a 2-point value, while major offenses, like speeding 40 MPH or more over the limit, could carry 11 points.
The New York point system is a way for the DMV to track your driving abilities, and for habitual violators to face more severe penalties. Points from a traffic ticket are added to your driving record, where they will remain for 3 years. If 6 points are added to your driving record in an 18-month period, you can face a New York drivers responsibility assessment fee. You will be responsible for paying this fee annually for 3 years, or until the points are removed from your record. Any additional points added to your record during that period will cost you additional money.
The good news is that eligible drivers can take a New York Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) to remove points and prevent additional fines. By completing a PIRP, the DMV is prevented from adding the points from your traffic conviction to your driving record total, which helps you avoid consequences like surcharges, a suspended license, or auto insurance rate hikes.
Drivers License Suspension or Revocation
The New York DMV takes their point system very seriously, and it can be used to suspend or revoke your drivers license. Your point total is reviewed every 18 months, and if you accumulate up to 11 points within that time period, your drivers license could be suspended. You could also face suspension if you receive 3 speeding tickets in 18 months. Other violations that could result in a suspended or revoked license include:
- Conviction for driving while ability impaired (DWAI) by drugs or alcohol
- Refusal to take a chemical test during a DWAI stop
- Driving without insurance
- Ignoring a court judgment from a traffic accident
Auto Insurance Reduction
Points on your driving record could result in higher insurance rates. That’s why a completing a PIRP is so important. If you do find yourself with points on your record, you should sign up for a PIRP as soon as possible to have those points eliminated from your total. It’s also good to know that New York enforces a mandatory insurance rate reduction if you take and complete a PIRP on your own accord.
