Every motorist has the legal obligation to ensure that their vehicle meets certain basic safety standards that are set forth in the New York Vehicle & Traffic Law. The failure to meet this duty puts the driver, their passengers, and others around them at substantial risk of an accident. It can also allow a police officer to give you a ticket, which can lead to costly fines.

Understanding your duty as a driver to maintain adequate and safe vehicle equipment is the best way to avoid a traffic ticket. But if you get one, you have a legal ally in The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers. Find out what some of the most common tickets are for vehicle equipment problems.

Equipment Issues That Can Give You a Ticket

Whether or not you have ever received a traffic ticket for equipment issues with your vehicle, you should know what some of the most common reasons for these tickets are. These are a few, with references to which part of the New York Vehicle & Traffic Law (VTL) covers it:

No or Inadequate Headlights (375-2(a)1): The law requires proper lighting on your vehicle, including headlights as covered in this section. This ticket can result in a fine of up to $150, but the state may dismiss the ticket if it is fixed.
No or Insufficient Tail Lights (375-2(a)3): Similarly, the vehicle must have appropriate tail lights. The fines and potential dismissal are the same as for the headlights rule above.
Windshield Sign or Obstruction (375-12(a)a): Anything that is obstructing your windshield, besides a legally authorized certificate or paper, is against the New York vehicle code. This same rule requires modern safety glass on the windshield. The fine is potentially up to $150.
No or Inadequate Directional Signals (375-18): Lack of directional signals or “blinkers” is another vehicle problem that could result in a traffic ticket. You should get this fixed right away and see if a dismissal is possible.
Inadequate Muffler (375-31): Expect a ticket if your muffler is either too loud or does not sufficiently filter exhaust fumes. Aftermarket mufflers often run afoul of this rule. Possible fines are up to $150.
No or Inadequate Back-up Light (375-34): Most drivers are familiar with the white light that illuminates from the back when a vehicle moves in reverse. The light should be in working order and not illuminate when the vehicle moves forward.
No or Inadequate Stop Lights (375-40(b)): When you hit the brakes, the stop lights in the back should illuminate. Cracked and altered lights, or those that are too dim, often result in a ticket. The fine in New York is up to $150.
No Front or Rear Bumper (375-48(b)): If your vehicle has been in a crash, the front or rear bumper may have been damaged or destroyed. You must replace it with a legally compliant bumper or risk a ticket.

How We Can Help You Fight Your New York Ticket

You can avoid many of the above equipment problems if you take your vehicle to a reputable repair shop or mechanic and have it inspected. These shops generally understand the vehicle code and what it requires for an automobile to be compliant. As indicated above, many drivers get into trouble when they buy aftermarket vehicles or parts, or they have been in a previous wreck.

The good news is that by fixing the problem right after getting a ticket, you may be able to request a dismissal and save money. Let The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers help you with this and explore other potential options for resolving your ticket. Give us a call or contact us online to get started.