Study: SPEEDING FINE COMPARISON FOR CONNECTICUT, NEW YORK, PENNSYLVANIA, AND VIRGINIA

This one is an oldie but a goodie with some useful comparison charts. Keep in mind fines quoted are from 2008 and have increased in many cases since. Also, there will be no reference to new laws like the 1144a "Move Over" law (FLD TO MOVE TO OPEN LANE TO EMERG VEHICLE), a 3 point violation, as well as cell phone (OP MOBILE PHONE), and electronic device. Otherwise, it is a very interesting look into how fines for traffic violations like speeding compare across these neighboring states as well as what penalties are assessed.

One interesting point, and something that most people don't realize, is that speeding even 11mph over the posted speed limit is punishable by 15 days in prison! Maybe one good reason to hire a lawyer.

To see realistic fine amounts for speeding convictions and reductions to 1201a and other generic violations. in New York courts, visit our resource at NY Speeding Ticket Fines.

1144a "Move Over" Law Updated

As of January 1, 2012 the Ambrose-Searles "Move Over" Law (section 1144a of NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law) has been updated to include tow and service vehicle operators and other maintenance workers stopped along roadways while performing their duties.

New York's Division of State Police have a statement about the changes on their website along with a downloadable brochure linked to below. The 1144a is still punishable by a fine and 3 points. 

1144a Brochure (.pdf)

Deadly School Bus Crash in Clifton Park (Saratoga County) NY

Today, YNN and Times Union are reporting a head-on collision in Clifton Park between a school bus and an SUV. Fortunately, there were no passengers on board the school bus but the drive of the SUV was killed. On a narrow highway with no visible traffic and light mist, is it possible this is occurred as a result of texting/distracted driving?

Ever since the National Transportation Safety Board called for all 50 states to ban the non-emergency use of portable electronic devices (other than those designed to support the driving task), this has been a hot-topic. In fact, the NTSB's recommendation came as a response to a fatal wreck last year in Missouri between two school buses, a bobtail, and an SUV. Thirty-five people were injured and two died in that incident.

Currently, texting/distracted driving is a 3 point violation in New York state. Operating a mobile phone is a 2 point violation.

Distracted and Aggressive Driving Enforcement Detail - 11/9/11

Today, the New York State Police will be conducting a Distracted and Aggressive Driving Enforcement Detail on Interstate I-87. State Troopers will be handing out informational pamphlets along with tickets issued for speeding, reckless driving, unsafe lane changes and cell phone/mobile device violations (OP-Mobile Device), as well as other tickets.

Those passing by the city of Albany and towns of Colonie, Guilderland, Malta, Halfmoon, Saratoga, and others will likely notice an increased presence of Troopers. Please drive safely and contact our office if you need legal advice, representation, or counsel.

(518) 465-2211

"Speed Week" - Aug 8-14th, 2011

Today, the Times Union reported the opening of "Speed Week" in New York state. In concert with Nascar's race at Watkins Glen, Troopers will be on the lookout for motorists violating Section 1180 of New York state Vehicle & Traffic law, known as "speeding" or SPEED IN ZONE. Remember that fines are extremely high in New York (doubled in Work Zones) and points are given out very generously. In fact, if you accumulate 6 points within an 18 month period, the state will send you a bill for $300.00 as part of the Driver Responsibility Program. Every point accumulated above that will be assessed an additional $75.00 fee. Remember also that these fees apply irregardless of what state or country issued your driver's license. Traffic Violations Bureau provides a chart of DMV points for particular violations.

Local courts have the power to issue fines within a certain range which can depend on local policy, your past driving history, and other factors. Fines that our clients have paid for speeding and other reduced charges can be viewed at NySpeedingTicketFines.com.

As always, be especially careful while driving this weekend and always remember to observe posted speed limits. When in doubt, Thruway and other highway speed limits in New York state tend to be 55mph. You are likely to run in to a high concentration of State Troopers and speed traps in the Binghamton area along Route 88 in Chenango, Dickinson, Deposit, Endicott, etc.

If you are pulled over, always remember to be courteous with the officer or Trooper and call us if you need help at (518) 465-2211 or request a Free Consultation of your case using the form here on our blog.

Photo courtesy of roberbarker2.

Potsdam, Ny (Village and Town) Ticket Defense

We are happy to announce that we have recently opened a new website dedicated to our practice of Vehicle & Traffic law in the town and village of Potsdam, New York. SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson University students and visiting friends and family as well as travelers through the Potsdam Municipal Airport can call on our services and expertise 24 hours a day for help with traffic tickets of all kinds. Clients with violations to be answered in the Potsdam Town or Village Justice courts will not have to go to court and, as usual, our total fee is usually a flat $195.00 (please contact us to discuss the details of your case). Routes 11 and 56 run through the area with common violations like speeding (SPEED IN ZONE 1180), 1144A, cell phone and other mobile device, seat belt, and other moving violations being commonly issued there.

For more information, call our office, request a free consultation here, or visit the website at - potsdamticketlawyer.info.


Another great photo by dougtone.

Distracted Driving May Become a Primary Offense in New York State

The New York Times reported recently that some lawmakers in New York, including Governor Andrew Cuomo, are advocating a change to existing traffic law. Currently, distracted driving (texting while driving) is a secondary offense, meaning drivers can only be ticketed for texting if an officer or trooper pulls them over for a primary offense like speeding or failure to signal, etc. The new law would make distracted driving a primary offense and increase the penalty from 2 points to 3 points as well as increase the penalty for using a cellphone without a hands-free device while driving to 3 points.  In 2010, police issued 3,235 in New York state for texting while driving, 1,632 of which were issued in New York City.

If you get a ticket for a cell phone, distracted driving, or other ticket in New York state, give us a call. (518) 465-2211.

Photo Credit: mrJasonWeaver