Protect your right to drive!
New York State has strict traffic laws that can have serious consequences for your driving privileges. Understanding the point system and the penalties for traffic violations is essential to protecting your right to drive.
Key Facts About NY Traffic Law
- • Accumulation of 11 points within 18 months will result in a DMV licence suspension and revocation hearing, at which time driving privileges may be suspended or revoked.
- • Points are assessed as of the date of the violation, unless the violator fails to respond to a ticket promptly.
- • 3 speeding violations within 18 months will result in mandatory licence revocation, regardless of points.
- • Points will remain on the driving record for 18 months from the date of the violation.
- • The number of points on the driving record may be used to determine the cost of automobile insurance coverage for that driver.
- • The DMV may require you to pay a Driver's Responsibility Assessment based upon total points accumulated.
Traffic Violation Points
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding | |
| Speed not indicated | 3 |
| 1–10 MPH over limit | 3 |
| 11–20 MPH over limit | 4 |
| 21–30 MPH over limit | 6 |
| 31–40 MPH over limit | 8 |
| 40+ MPH over limit | 11 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Failure to stop for school bus | 5 |
| Inadequate brakes | 4 |
| Cell phone use while driving | 5 |
| Following too closely (tailgating) | 4 |
| Improper passing, lane change, or driving in wrong direction | 3 |
| Traffic signal, stop sign, or yield violation | 3 |
| Railroad crossing violation | 3 |
| Failure to yield right-of-way | 3 |
| Passenger safety violation (seat belt, child safety seat for passengers under 16) | 3 |
| Left scene of accident involving property damage or injury of a domestic animal | 3 |
| Other moving violations | 2 |
| Inadequate brakes (vehicle of an employer) | 2 |
| Use of portable electronic device (texting) | 5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many points will suspend my license in New York?
Accumulating 11 or more points within an 18-month period will result in license suspension. Additionally, 3 speeding violations within 18 months result in mandatory revocation, regardless of total points.
Can I take a defensive driving course to reduce points?
Yes. Completing a DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP) can reduce up to 4 points from your driving record. The course can also provide a 10% reduction in your auto insurance for 3 years.
Should I just pay my traffic ticket?
Paying a traffic ticket is the same as pleading guilty. This adds points to your record, can increase your insurance rates, and may trigger the Driver Responsibility Assessment (additional DMV fees of $300+ when you reach 6 points). An attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a no-point violation.
What is the Driver Responsibility Assessment?
The DRA is an additional fee imposed by the DMV when you accumulate 6 or more points on your record within 18 months. The fee is $300 plus $75 for each point over 6, payable annually for 3 years. This is separate from any court fines.
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Don't let traffic violations jeopardize your driving privileges.
Contact us to discuss your traffic matter and learn about your options.
Call 716-633-0374