Before drivers can enter an intersection, they must be sure they can clear it if the traffic signal changes. However, many drivers move into the intersection with no way forward due to blocked traffic. This can result in a ticket, along with fines, higher insurance rates, and more.
If you receive a ticket under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) 1175, you will need knowledgeable legal counsel to protect your driving record and save you money. Find out why Central New York drivers trust The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers.
What To Know About VTL 1175
The text of this section of the New York traffic code reads:
“Obstructing traffic at intersection. When vehicular traffic is stopped on the opposite side of an intersection, no person shall drive a vehicle into such intersection, except when making a turn unless there is adequate space on the opposite side of the intersection to accommodate the vehicle he is driving notwithstanding the indication of a traffic control signal which would permit him to proceed.”
This obstruction is known as “blocking the box,” and it occurs when a driver moves forward into the intersection but is forced to remain in the box (the square area formed where the lanes intersect over each other) due to traffic.
When a driver moves into this space, they must be able to clear it by either turning or moving forward. The reason this ticket exists is because once the forward traffic light turns red, the vehicle will obstruct cross-traffic by remaining in the box. New York has long recognized that blocking intersections causes a host of problems, such as:
- Disrupting cross-traffic flow and adding to congestion
- Blocking emergency vehicles and thereby endangering lives
- Putting pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists at unnecessary risk
- Causing even more pollution due to idling vehicles
The Consequences of an Obstructing Traffic Ticket
Central New York drivers who are ticketed under VTL 1775 can expect the following if they are convicted:
- A fine of $115
- Surcharges in certain jurisdictions
- Two points added to a driver’s record
- Higher insurance premiums
If a driver accumulates too many points on their record, they may have to pay additional fines and will possibly have their license suspended.
Enforcement of VTL 1175
Drivers should be aware that law enforcement is actively enforcing VTL 1775 throughout New York State. However, the law against obstructing an intersection is uniquely enforced in New York City. There, officials can charge it as either a moving violation or a parking ticket.
If you receive a parking ticket in New York City, you will receive 0 points on your driving record. But you will need to make sure you inform your attorney of the nature of your ticket so they can handle it in the appropriate court.
Possible Defenses Against a Ticket
The good news is that getting a ticket for obstructing the intersection does not mean you are guilty. You have the right to retain a Central New York traffic ticket lawyer who can raise several possible defenses, including:
- Turning at the intersection: The language of VTL 1175 specifically excludes vehicles who enter the intersection to make a turn. A driver is allowed to therefore move into the intersection for the purposes of making a turn, although only one at a time can do so.
- Sudden stops ahead: The main purpose of these tickets is to deter drivers from entering intersections knowing they cannot clear them when the light turns red. If traffic is flowing when you move forward, and then suddenly stops, this could be a defense.
- Emergency: Drivers sometimes have to move forward to accommodate police and other emergency vehicles from behind. This situation may force a driver to enter and remain in the intersection after the light changes to red. Notify your lawyer if this happens to you.
- Defective stoplight: In rare cases, Central New York traffic lights are defective and remain green for an unreasonably short amount of time. This can mislead drivers into thinking they have more time to clear the intersection and result in a ticket.
The Value of Dedicated Legal Representation
There may be other defenses available to you if you receive a VTL 1175 or a similar ticket (e.g. in New York City) for obstructing an intersection. The most important step you can take is to speak with an attorney who knows the law and can get to work fighting the ticket. Contact The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers today to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions About Obstructing Traffic Tickets
Why should I fight this ticket?
This ticket can cause you to have 2 points added to your driving record, which can lead to more fines and a possible license suspension. You may also have to pay higher insurance premiums. Over time, this may mean substantial sums of money, so speak to a lawyer about fighting it.
Should I plead guilty to obstructing traffic?
Prosecutors sometimes offer a VTL 1775 violation as a plea deal for more serious offenses such as speeding. In this case, it might make sense to plead guilty to obstructing traffic. Regardless, talk to a Central New York traffic ticket lawyer about the pros and cons of a plea deal.
Why does New York City enforce the law differently?
New York City’s infamous traffic gridlock led the city to permit these violations to be classified as parking tickets. This allows traffic enforcement officials, who are not police officers, to issue citations to help the city better address the problem.