Receiving traffic tickets in NYC can be a daunting experience. You might be filled with questions and uncertainty about the process ahead. Fortunately, with over three decades of experience in defending all forms of traffic tickets in New York, the Law Office of Craig Bondy is here to guide you through the necessary steps to take when you find yourself with a traffic ticket.

Traffic Tickets in NYC: 9 Steps To Take After

Here’s your step-by-step guide to navigating traffic tickets in NYC:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Cooperative

When pulled over, remaining calm and cooperative with the law enforcement officer is essential. Provide the necessary documentation, such as your:

• driver’s license
• registration
• and proof of insurance.

Remember, receiving traffic tickets in NYC is not an admission of guilt.

Step 2: Review the Ticket Thoroughly

Once you receive the traffic tickets in NYC, take time to review it carefully. Ensure that all the information presented is accurate. Any discrepancies or errors might work in your favor when contesting the ticket.

Step 3: Document the Incident

As soon as possible, document the circumstances surrounding the ticket. Note down details like the location, time, and weather conditions. If possible, take pictures of the scene. This information can be valuable if you decide to fight the ticket.

Step 4: Understand Your Options

You have several options for dealing with a traffic ticket in New York. You can plead guilty and pay the fine, plead not guilty and contest the ticket in court, or seek a reduction of the charges through plea negotiations. It’s vital to understand each option’s repercussions before deciding.

Step 5: Contact a Traffic Ticket Lawyer

Before you decide on the best course of action, consulting with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer might be beneficial. The Law Office of Craig Bondy has been assisting clients with traffic violations since 1986 and can provide expert advice on how to proceed.

Step 6: Respond to the Ticket

In New York, you must respond to the ticket within a specified period, usually 15 days. You can do this online, by mail, or in person. Failing to respond can result in your license being suspended, so acting promptly is crucial.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Hearing (If Contesting the Ticket)

If you decide to contest the ticket, start preparing for your hearing. Gather all the necessary documentation and evidence to support your case. The Law Office of Craig Bondy can help you build a solid defense to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Step 8: Attend Your Hearing

If your case goes to court, attend your hearing on the scheduled date. Present your case clearly and concisely, backed up with the evidence you have gathered.

Step 9: Follow Up

After the hearing, you must follow up on the judge’s decision. If found not guilty, you have no further obligations. You might have to pay fines or face other penalties if found guilty. In some cases, you might have the option to appeal the decision.

Common Traffic Tickets in NYC

Understanding the common types of traffic tickets in NYC can help you navigate the city’s busy roads more effectively. Let’s delve into the details:

Speeding

In NYC, speeding is a prevalent offense, and the penalties can range from fines to points on your license and even suspension of your license in extreme cases. Remember, adhering to posted speed limits is a legal requirement and a safety measure.

Cell Phone and Texting Violations

Using a mobile phone without a hands-free device or texting while driving is a serious offense in New York City. This includes holding a portable electronic device and viewing, taking, or transmitting images, playing games, or composing, sending, reading, viewing, accessing, browsing, transmitting, saving, or retrieving email, text messages, or other electronic data.

Disobeying Traffic Signs and Signals

Another common violation is failing to obey traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings. It’s crucial to adhere to all posted signs and signals to maintain road safety.

Improper Turns

Making improper turns, whether failing to use the correct lane or not yielding the right of way, can result in a ticket. Remember to always follow the posted signs and roadway markings to avoid violations.

Failure to Yield

Not yielding the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks or to other drivers where required is a violation that can result in penalties. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow the yield signs to prevent accidents and fines.

Blocking the Box (Gridlock)

In NYC, “blocking the box” refers to drivers who enter an intersection without sufficient space on the other side, thus ending up blocking the cross traffic and pedestrians. It’s a violation that the city takes very seriously, and hefty fines can be levied for this offense.

Unpaid Parking Tickets

Accumulating unpaid parking tickets can result in additional fines and penalties. Ensure to pay any parking tickets you receive promptly to avoid further complications.

Driving without a Valid License

Driving without a valid license or with a suspended or revoked license is a serious offense in NYC. Make sure to keep your driving credentials up-to-date to avoid tickets or arrests.

Reckless Driving

Engaging in reckless driving, such as aggressive behavior, tailgating, or excessive speeding, can result in severe penalties, including criminal charges in some cases.

Driving under the Influence (DUI)

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a grave offense, attracting hefty fines, license revocation, and even imprisonment.

Penalties for Traffic Tickets in New York

Driving in New York, like in any other city, comes with a responsibility to adhere to the traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users. However, there are instances where you may find yourself with a traffic ticket. Understanding the penalties associated with different traffic violations can help you stay informed and prepared. At the Law Office of Craig Bondy, we aim to educate you on the penalties that come with traffic tickets in New York. Here’s what you need to know:

Fines and Surcharges

Traffic tickets in New York come with fines that vary based on the severity and the nature of the violation. On top of the fines, you might also be required to pay additional surcharges.

Points on Your Driver’s License

In New York, traffic violations come with a point system. Different violations have different point values, usually ranging from 2 to 11 points. Accumulating too many points within a specific period can lead to further penalties, including license suspension.

Driver Assessment Fee

If you accumulate six or more points on your driving record within 18 months, you will be required to pay a Driver Responsibility Assessment fee. This fee is separate from any fines or surcharges associated with your traffic ticket.

License Suspension or Revocation

Serious traffic violations, or accumulating a high number of points on your license in a short time frame, can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.

Possible Jail Time

For severe offenses such as reckless driving or DUI/DWI, you may face jail time, especially if the violation resulted in injury or property damage.

Increase in Insurance Premiums

Traffic violations can also lead to an increase in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies may view you as a high-risk driver, which can substantially increase your rates.

Mandatory Driver Improvement Courses

In some cases, you might be ordered to attend a driver improvement or defensive driving course as a part of your penalty.

Community Service

Depending on the nature of the violation, you may be required to perform community service as a part of your penalty.

Impact on Employment

Certain traffic violations, especially those involving alcohol or controlled substances, can have an adverse effect on current or future employment opportunities, particularly for jobs that involve driving.

Facing a Traffic Ticket? Let Us Help You!

Receiving a traffic ticket can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. With over three decades of experience, the Law Office of Craig Bondy is your trusted partner in navigating New York’s complex traffic laws. We’re committed to protecting your rights and achieving the most favorable outcome for your case.

Don’t let a traffic ticket disrupt your life. Reach out to the Law Office of Craig Bondy today for expert representation. Together, we’ll steer your case to a successful resolution.