Common Questions about New York Traffic Violations

Speeding Tickets in New York

New York state traffic laws can be confusing to those who don't have to deal with them on a daily basis. Still, ignorance of the law is not only no excuse, it may also endanger your future driving privileges. New York traffic ticket attorney Kenneth S. Feraru answers several frequently asked questions about New York traffic offenses.

If I receive a traffic ticket, must I appear in court? Not necessarily. Many tickets can even be paid online. If you choose to retain a law firm, your attorney can usually represent you in court without your having to appear.

Must I hire a lawyer? If you're charged with a criminal traffic offense, such as driving while intoxicated or vehicular manslaughter, then you will certainly want to be represented by an experienced Long Island criminal defense attorney. For less serious traffic charges, hiring an attorney can still be a good option, since a lawyer may be able have your penalty reduced.

Will my automobile insurance rates go up if I receive a traffic ticket? It depends. If you are licensed in New York, your rate won't necessarily be affected if you receive a speeding violation of 15 miles per hour or less over the speed limit. Remember, though, that your insurance company will consider your overall driving record when determining your rate.

What will a traffic ticket cost in New York? Again, it depends on the circumstances. Parking tickets, even in New York City, cost less than speeding tickets. First-time offenders who are ticketed for speeding can generally expect to pay from $100 to $600, while drivers who have repeated speeding offenses within an 18-month period may face fines of $1,000 or more.

New York State maintains its own driver point system to track traffic infractions, and points are tallied over a rolling 18-month period. If you accumulate too many points during that timeframe, your license can be suspended. To protect yourself and your insurance rates, it's wise to consult an experienced New York traffic attorney whenever you receive a ticket.

If you need help with a traffic ticket in New York, contact Kenneth Feraru for a confidential, no-cost initial consultation. Call (516) 535-3333 or use our convenient web contact.