Common Violations
It can be hard to find the current or relevant section of the law to understand how to properly defend yourself in traffic court. For your convenience I have compiled the sections that are most common in traffic court. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have more specific questions. Looking at the statute is a great way to start when you are thinking about fighting your ticket. I hope you find it helpful. This section can help you better understand the ticket you were given.
NYC Traffic Rules in their entirety
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/trafrule.pdf
Traffic Device or Street Sign (2 points)
VTL Section 1110
Obedience to and required traffic-control devices
U-Turn (2 points)
VTL Section 1161
This can also fall under failure to obey a traffic device, depending on the circumstances and what the officer chooses to charge.
Failure to Yield (3 points)
VTL Section 1142
Generally a required appearance. Vehicle entering stop or yield intersection
Improper Turn (2 points)
VTL Section 1160
Red Light or Other Light Violation (3 points)
VTL Section 1111
The camera tickets are akin to parking and do not carry points.
Failure to Signal (2 points)
Section 1163 VTL
Turning movements and required signals. Vehicle & Traffic (VAT)
Passing School Bus (5 points)
VTL Section 1174
Overtaking and passing school bus
Equipment
VTL Section 375
Stop Sign (3 points)
VTL Section 1172
Spillback or Obstructing an Intersection (2 points)
VTL Section 1175
Cell Phone (5 points)
VTL Section 1225-C
Texting or Electronic Device (5 points)
VTL Section 1225-D
Use of portable electronic devices
Speeding
VTL Section 1180
Speed Not Reasonable and Prudent (3 points)
Speeding 1-10 mph over the limit (3 points)
Speeding 11-20 mph over the limit (4 points)
Speeding 21-30 mph over the limit (6 points)
Speeding 31-40 mph over the limit (8 points)
Speeding 41+ mph over the limit (11 points), required appearance
There may be additional penalties such as suspension, or revocation, or denial of renewal, depending on the points and license history and future actions.
Reckless Driving (5 points)
Misdemeanor – Criminal Court
Tailgating or Following too Closely (4 points)
Section 1129
Following too closely. Vehicle & Traffic (VAT)
Child Seatbelts (3 points)
VTL Section 1229-C
Operation of vehicles with safety seats and safety belts
