Driving on the roads in New York State is not a free-for-all like the German autobahn (where there are no speed limits). Clear speed limits mark roadways, turn signals are required when turning, and activities like distracted driving with cell phone texting are a no-no. Get pulled over and receive a ticket for any kind of moving violation, and there could be consequences beyond the fine if you’re convicted.
The NYS DMV assigns points to your license when you’re convicted of a traffic violation. To put it simply, the more serious the moving violation, the more points you get. If you collect 11 points in 18 months, your license may be suspended (almost always will be suspended).
Common Traffic Violations and Their Points
NY State Traffic Attorney
When you understand the trouble driving points can cause, it’s easier to keep your speeding under control. After all, going 5-10mph over the limit, where most of us drive normally, can still result in points if convicted. Increasing that to, say, 25mph over the limit, and the points start to mount. Just two severe tickets of 30mph or more over the limit, and you’re license will get revoked by the state.
Here is a breakdown of points-per-speeding violation in NY:
Speeding Ticket Points in NYS
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- 1–10 mph over limit: 3 points
- 11–20 mph over limit: 4 points
- 21–30 mph over limit: 6 points
- 31–40 mph over limit: 8 points
- Over 40 mph: 11 points (automatic suspension)
Other Moving Violation Points in NYS
It isn’t just speeding that will get you points. Other dangerous driving maneuvers or actions come with points as well (some quite high).
- Reckless Driving: 5 points
- Tailgating (Following too closely): 4 points
- Failing to Yield a Right of Way: 3 points
- Unsafe Lane Change or Improper Passing : 3 points
- Disobeying a Stop Sign or Traffic Signal : 3 points
- Cell Phone Use/Texting While Driving: 5 points
- Driving Left of Center/Unsafe Passing: 4 points
There is a quite a list of moving violations and you should not be doing any of them.
Why Do Points Matter?
This is a rare case in life where the more points you have, the worse it is (this isn’t basketball after all). More than the simple inconvenience of having to fight a ticket or go to court are some other consequences that follow too many points or even just a few on your license.
- Insurance Premiums Go Up: Insurance companies view points as a red flag and may raise your rates (this is almost guaranteed).
- Suspension Risk: 11 points in 18 months can mean losing your license.
- Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee (DRA): If you earn 6 or more points in 18 months, New York charges an extra $100 per year for 3 years — plus $25 for each additional point.
This is why having a proper defense is essential when it comes to protecting your driving record.
Can a Lawyer Help Reduce Points?
Yes. In most cases, an attorney can do certain things to help keep you on the road. Not working with an attorney can mean less wiggle room by the courts in minimizing your points conviction. A qualified NY State Traffic Attorney can:
- Negotiate with a prosecutor for a reduction in charges to a violation with fewer (or no) points.
- Represent you in court, so you don’t have to appear in person.
- Help you avoid suspension and keep insurance rates from skyrocketing.
These outcomes are way more difficult to accomplish on your own, so get help now.
Drive Smart or Face the Consequences
One ticket isn’t going to ruin your ability to drive, but it’s a slippery slope. If you notice you’re creeping over the speed limit, try to keep it in check. Remember to click your seatbelt every time you enter a vehicle and keep your phone out of your hands. The courts are out to ensure drivers behave safely for the benefit of all others and themselves. If you’re facing a ticket, it pays to understand the system — and it may save you money and stress to get legal help before pleading guilty.
Call us today and let’s discuss what happened and how we can help.