New York State Traffic Ticket Laws & Fines

A parked car receiving a parking ticket violation in Syracuse, New York

Chapter 71 of the Consolidated Laws of New York handles Vehicle & Traffic (VAT) laws. There are 12 Titles in Chapter 71, each filled with numerous articles that each have their own sub-sections detailing the many Vehicle and Traffic Laws in New York State. This article will summarize some of most common VAT Laws in New York State and how much a ticket may cost for if you are charged with violating that law during a traffic stop.

This article was last updated on March 22, 2023.

Common Traffic Tickets In New York

Note that the fines listed are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the court.

  1. Speeding
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 30, Section 1180
    • Fines for speeding vary depending on how much the driver exceeds the speed limit, but typically range from $45 to $600, along with potential surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  2. Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 29, Section 1110(a)
    • Fines: $50 to $150, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  3. Traffic-Control Signal Violations (Red Light)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 29, Section 1111(d)(1)
    • This section prohibits drivers from entering an intersection when facing a steady red signal, unless they are turning right (or left, onto a one-way street) after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and other traffic. Drivers must obey the red light at all times.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of $50 to $450, plus surcharges and 3 points on the driver’s license.
  4. Traffic-Control Signal Violations (Yellow Light)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 29, Section 1111(b)(2)
    • This section states that drivers facing a steady yellow signal are warned that the related green movement is being terminated, and they must stop at a marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. However, if the driver is too close to the intersection to stop safely, they may proceed cautiously through the intersection. Running a yellow light is not a specific violation in New York, but if a driver enters the intersection after the light turns red, they may be cited for running a red light as described above.
  5. Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 29, Section 1172(a)
    • Fines for failing to stop at a stop sign range from $25 to $150 for a first offense, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  6. Driving Without a Valid License
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 5, Article 19, Section 509
    • Fines for driving without a valid license can range from $75 to $300, plus potential surcharges and license suspension.
  7. Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Insurance
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 3, Article 6, Section 319
    • Section 319 states that no person shall operate, or allow someone else to operate, a motor vehicle without proper insurance coverage. In New York, motor vehicle owners are required to maintain liability insurance issued by an insurer authorized to do business in the state.
    • Violating this law can result in several penalties, including: A fine between $150 and $1,500 for a first offense, or between $750 and $1,500 for a subsequent offense within 36 months, plus any applicable surcharges, a mandatory surcharge of $85, a civil penalty equal to the greater of $750 or three times the amount of the fine, license and registration suspension for at least 90 days, and possible revocation for up to 1 year, and/or vehicle impoundment or possible seizure and forfeiture.
  8. Unregistered Vehicle
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 4, Article 14, Section 401
    • Fines for operating an unregistered vehicle can range from $75 to $300, plus surcharges and potential vehicle impoundment.
  9. Equipment Violations
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 7, Article 9, Sections 375-376
    • Fines for equipment violations, such as improper lighting or faulty brakes, can range from $25 to $150, plus surcharges.
  10. Failure to Yield
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 26, Section 1144-A
    • Fines for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle can range from $250 to $400 for a first offense, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  11. Seatbelt and Child Safety Seat Violations
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 7, Article 33, Section 1229-C
    • Fines for seatbelt violations range from $25 to $100, while child safety seat violations can result in fines ranging from $25 to $100, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  12. Reckless Driving
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 33, Section 1212
    • Fines range from $100 to $300 for a first offense, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  13. Following Too Closely
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 25, Section 1129
    • Fines range from $25 to $150 for a first offense, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  14. Failure to Signal
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 28, Section 1163
    • Fines range from $25 to $150, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  15. Illegal U-turn
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 28, Section 1161
    • Fines range from $25 to $150, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  16. Unsafe Lane Change
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 25, Section 1128
    • Fines: $25 to $150, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  17. Passing a School Bus
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 29, Section 1174
    • Fines: $250 to $400 for a first offense, plus surcharges and points on the driver’s license.
  18. Seat Belt Violation for Adults
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 7, Article 33, Section 1229-C
    • This section requires all front-seat passengers and drivers to wear a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. Furthermore, passengers in the rear seats who are 16 years of age or older must also wear a seat belt.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of up to $50, plus surcharges.
  19. Child Safety Restraint Violation
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 7, Article 33, Section 1229-C
    • This section also addresses child safety restraint requirements. Children under the age of 4 must be secured in a federally-approved child safety seat, while children aged 4 to 7 must be in an appropriate child restraint system, such as a booster seat. Children aged 8 to 15 must wear a seat belt. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers meet these requirements.
    • Violating the child safety restraint law can result in a fine of $25 to $100, plus surcharges, and 3 points on the driver’s license.
  20. Use of a Mobile Telephone
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 33, Section 1225-C
    • This section prohibits drivers from using a handheld mobile telephone while operating a motor vehicle. This includes holding the phone to the ear for talking, as well as dialing or answering the phone. Drivers can use hands-free devices, but they must not be holding the phone itself.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of $50 to $200 for a first offense, $50 to $250 for a second offense within 18 months, and $50 to $450 for a third or subsequent offense within 18 months, plus surcharges and 5 points on the driver’s license.
  21. Use of Portable Electronic Devices (Texting)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 33, Section 1225-D
    • This section prohibits drivers from using portable electronic devices to compose, send, read, access, browse, transmit, save, or retrieve electronic data such as email, text messages, or webpages while operating a motor vehicle. This includes holding the device and viewing or transmitting images or playing games.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of $50 to $200 for a first offense, $50 to $250 for a second offense within 18 months, and $50 to $450 for a third or subsequent offense within 18 months, plus surcharges and 5 points on the driver’s license.
  22. Stopping at Railroad Crossings
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 26, Section 1171
    • This section states that drivers approaching a railroad crossing must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail if a train is approaching, a signal is activated, a flagger is signaling the approach of a train, or if the crossing is not visible and the driver is not sure whether a train is approaching.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of $100 to $250 for a first offense, $250 to $400 for a second offense within 18 months, and $400 to $750 for a third or subsequent offense within 18 months, plus surcharges and 5 points on the driver’s license.
  23. Stopping Requirements for Certain Vehicles
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 26, Section 1170
    • This section requires certain vehicles to always stop at railroad crossings, regardless of the presence of a train or an activated signal. These vehicles include school buses, vehicles carrying passengers for hire, vehicles transporting hazardous materials requiring a placard, and commercial motor vehicles transporting passengers. Drivers of these vehicles must stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail and listen and look for an approaching train.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine of $100 to $250 for a first offense, $250 to $400 for a second offense within 18 months, and $400 to $750 for a third or subsequent offense within 18 months, plus surcharges and 5 points on the driver’s license.
  24. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 31, Section 1192(2) and 1192(3)
    • Section 1192(2) defines DWI as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or while in an intoxicated condition. Section 1192(3) covers driving while intoxicated by drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs.
    • Penalties for a first offense may include a fine of $500 to $1,000, a maximum of 1-year imprisonment, and a minimum 6-month license revocation. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses.
  25. Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (Aggravated DWI)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 31, Section 1192(2-a)
    • Aggravated DWI is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.18% or higher.
    • Penalties for a first offense may include a fine of $1,000 to $2,500, a maximum of 1-year imprisonment, and a minimum 1-year license revocation. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses.
  26. Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 31, Section 1192(1)
    • DWAI is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, with a BAC between 0.05% and 0.07%, or by drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs.
    • Penalties for a first offense may include a fine of $300 to $500, a maximum of 15 days imprisonment, and a 90-day license suspension. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses.
  27. Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI-Drug)
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 31, Section 1192(4)
    • DWAI-Drug is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by any drug other than alcohol.
    • Penalties for a first offense may include a fine of $500 to $1,000, a maximum of 1-year imprisonment, and a minimum 6-month license revocation. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses.
  28. Zero Tolerance Law
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 6, Article 31, Section 1192-a
    • This law applies to drivers under 21 years of age with a BAC of 0.02% to 0.07%.
    • Penalties for a first offense include a minimum 6-month license suspension and a $125 civil penalty. A second offense may result in a 1-year license suspension or until the driver turns 21, whichever is longer, and a $125 civil penalty.
  29. Operation of a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid Inspection Certificate
    • VAT Chapter 71, Title 3, Article 5, Section 306)
    • Section 306 states that no person shall operate a motor vehicle unless it has been inspected as required by law and has a valid inspection certificate displayed. This applies to both in-state and out-of-state vehicles, though out-of-state vehicles must comply with their home state’s inspection requirements.
    • Violating this law can result in a fine between $25 and $50 for a first offense or a fine between $50 and $100 for a subsequent offense within 18 months, plus any applicable surcharges. The court may also dismiss the charge if the vehicle owner can provide proof of a valid inspection certificate obtained within 10 days of the violation

These examples represent only a fraction of the traffic violations and associated fines in New York. Laws change regularly and should always be double-checked for accuracy. It is crucial to consult the specific section of the Vehicle and Traffic Law for detailed information about any particular violation.

Onondaga Courthouse in Syracuse, New York

Overview of the 12 Titles In New York’s Vehicle & Traffic Laws Chapter of the Consolidated Laws

Traffic and vehicle laws in the State of New York are separated into 12 different “Titles” (similar to chapters in a book) that detail all the different types of violations that a driver can be charged with. Please note that fines and penalties mentioned below are examples only and may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the court.

  1. Title 1: Words and Phrases Defined
    • This title defines the terms and phrases used throughout the Vehicle and Traffic Law chapter. There are no fines associated with this title as it serves as a reference for understanding the law.
  2. Title 2: Administration of the Vehicle and Traffic Law
    • This title outlines the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Fines in this title may vary depending on the specific violation, such as not providing proof of insurance or failing to register a vehicle.
  3. Title 3: Safety Responsibility; Financial Security; Equipment; Inspection; Size and Weight; and Other Provisions
    • This title explains the financial responsibility required for vehicle owners and operators. Fines for violations of this title include suspension of driving privileges and fines for driving without insurance, which can range from $150 to $1,500, depending on the situation.
  4. Title 4: Registration of Motor Vehicles
    • This title covers the registration process for motor vehicles in New York State. Fines for failing to register a vehicle can range from $75 to $300.
  5. Title 5: Drivers’ Licenses
    • This title outlines the requirements for obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license in New York State. Fines for driving without a valid license can range from $75 to $300.
  6. Title 6: Rules of the Road
    • This title contains the traffic laws that drivers must follow, such as speed limits, traffic control devices, and right-of-way rules. Fines for violations can vary widely, depending on the offense. For example, fines for speeding can range from $45 to $600, while fines for running a red light can range from $50 to $450.
  7. Title 7: Equipment of Vehicles
    • This title regulates the necessary equipment and safety features for vehicles, including lighting, mirrors, and brakes. Fines for equipment violations can range from $25 to $150.
  8. Title 8: Traffic Violations Bureau
    • This title establishes the Traffic Violations Bureau, which is responsible for handling traffic infractions in New York City. Fines for violations are specific to the individual offenses and are determined by the bureau.
  9. Title 9: Motor Vehicle Safety Responsibility
    • This title covers the vehicle inspection process and requirements for motor vehicle repair shops. Fines for violations can range from $25 to $150 for inspection-related offenses and higher for more severe violations related to repair shops.
  10. Title 10: Accidents and Accident Reports
    • This title outlines the responsibilities of drivers involved in accidents, including reporting requirements. Fines for failing to report an accident can range from $25 to $5,000, depending on the severity of the accident and the circumstances.
  11. Title 11: Miscellaneous Provisions
    • This title covers a variety of topics, including reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), and penalties for repeat offenders. Fines for reckless driving can range from $100 to $1,000, while DUI fines can range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the severity and number of offenses.
  12. Title 12: Effective and Repeal Dates; Savings Clauses
    • This title contains information about the effective dates and repeal of various provisions within the Vehicle and Traffic Law. There are no fines associated with this title.

Please note that the fines listed above are only examples and may not represent the exact fines associated with specific charges.

If you have received a traffic ticket in New York, call us now at 866.594.0558 or fill out our contact form to get help today.

Note: The information in this article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence software, but was reviewed for accuracy and approved by attorney Clifton C. Carden III, Esq.