Driving around Orange or Sullivan County will reveal some changes from previous years. You’ve likely noticed more patrol cars, “Your Speed Is” signs, and speed cameras along local highways that were not there in years prior. New York State Law enforcement has increased traffic enforcement across Route 17, I-84, and local town roads — catching many drivers by surprise. The goal is to make roadways safer and minimize reckless driving, and it seems to be working as ticket revenue hits new heights.
Here’s what to know about speed traps in Orange and Sullivan Counties, and what you can do if you’ve been ticketed.
What Is a Speed Trap?
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You’ve probably driven by one of these at least once in your life (maybe even been trapped by one). A “speed trap” is a section of roadway where police heavily monitor speed — often where the limit drops suddenly. It can look something like this: you’re driving on the highway and see a highway patrol car up ahead in clear view of all motorists. Drivers slow down and get past the officer at legal speeds.
Often, when it seems they are far enough away, many drivers will accelerate back to the speed they were driving before they saw the police car in plain view. But the “trap” is further down the road, as there is another police officer using radar to check speed in a hidden spot, “catching” motorists who thought they were in the clear but had picked up their speed to an unsafe level. Hence the term “speed trap”.
Other standard setups include.
- Hidden patrol cars using radar or LIDAR
- Sudden speed limit changes near work zones or small towns
- Speed cameras that automatically issue tickets by mail
While legal, these traps can feel unfair, especially for out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with local speed shifts. A good traffic defense attorney may be able to use this to your advantage, as many judges are not huge fans of these “traps” and prefer more traditional means of ticketing.
Common Speed Trap Locations in Orange & Sullivan Counties
Of course, you should be obeying the speed limit for safety’s sake, as well as avoiding tickets and their points + fines. But certain sections of roadways are notorious in the region for being hotspots for ticketing by highway patrol officers. Drivers report frequent enforcement in these areas:
- Route 17 (Future I-86) — Between Goshen, Chester, and Monticello, especially near construction and casino exits.
- I-84 Corridor (Newburgh to Middletown) — Troopers often wait at median turnarounds and on-ramps.
- Route 9W (Newburgh & Cornwall) — Speed drops from highway to town speeds.
- Wurtsboro & Fallsburg main streets — Quick transitions to 30 mph zones.
- The 5 Corners in New Windsor – a major, five-way intersection located at the crossroads of Route 300, Route 94, and Route 32.
These speed zones can also pose as spot DWI checks throughout the year. The point isdrive at a safe speed everywhere, but most especially through these zones.
More Speed Cameras on the Way
Beyond traditional patrols, automated speed cameras are expanding through the Hudson Valley — especially in school zones and high-accident areas. Many motorists welcome this change as we’ve all seen someone speeding or passing dangerously through a school zone. There is a lot of community support for the increase in speed camera use throughout the area.
- Tickets get mailed automatically; no traffic stop is required. Meaning you often may not know if you’ve been “caught” in one. You may have seen a flashing light as the only sign, but it’s not always apparent to passing motorists.
- Some cameras remain active beyond school hours. Nearly all parents welcome this. Keeping the speed safe, whether or not school is in session.
- Critics argue they’re as much about revenue as safety. This is mostly a flat argument and usually comes from someone who an automated system has ticketed.
- Automated workzone enforcement areas
Let’s face it, there is always a push and pull of motorists going too fast and law enforcement taking action. These automated systems allow safety to be the main focus, which, after all, is the real reason for roadway laws. Ticket revenue is not the primary goal; it’s safety.
What To Do If You’re Ticketed in a Speed Trap
If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Orange or Sullivan County, NY:
- Don’t ignore it. Unpaid tickets can suspend your license.
- Check for errors. Discrepancies in location or speed may help your case.
- Consult a local traffic attorney. Local experience matters in town and county courts.
- Know the consequences. Speeding tickets add 3–11 points and raise insurance rates.
It’s a painful reminder that we’re getting monitored on the roadways. But remember, these laws are designed to keep you safe as well as others on the road. Don’t look at it the wrong way; safety is the goal.
Stay Alert, Drive Smart
We’re not at the stage in driverless technology where every car is driven by AI. It’s up to you to keep your travel speed in check and obey posted traffic signs. To avoid speed traps:
- Watch for sudden speed-limit changes.
- Use navigation apps for real-time alerts. Zoom will often alert you if police are up ahead.
- Drive cautiously through small towns and construction zones.
If you’ve been cited for speeding or reckless driving in Orange or Sullivan County, Evan Zucker Law can help you fight your Orange County, NY speeding ticket and protect your driving record.
📞 Contact us today to discuss the ticket you received, where it happened, and what we can do to help today.