In New York, as in any other state, there are a number of ways in which one can violate traffic laws. Some of these violations are more serious than others and can result in harsher penalties. However, all traffic violations are serious and should be avoided.
To help you avoid getting a traffic violation in New York, we have compiled a list of the top 10 ways to get yourself a traffic violation in the state. We hope you find this list useful and that it helps you to stay safe on the roads!
1. Driving Without A License:
Drivers in New York are legally required to have a valid driver’s license in order to operate a motor vehicle on any public roadway. Failure to have a license while driving can result in hefty fines or other penalties. Be sure to always carry your driver’s license when you are behind the wheel to avoid a traffic violation. DeWitt Car Accident Lawyers avers that It’s also worth noting that if you are pulled over without a license, officers in New York have the authority to confiscate your vehicle and arrest you. So, in addition to fines, you could face more serious consequences if you’re caught driving without a valid license.
2. Driving Without Registration or Insurance:
Not only must drivers in New York have a valid driver’s license, but they must also have current registration and insurance for the vehicle they are driving. Without these two documents, it’s likely you’ll wind up with a traffic violation. Moreover, you may also be subject to criminal penalties, depending on the violation and local laws. Alevvertise notes that there could be other consequences related to driving an uninsured or unregistered car in New York. If you are in a car accident, the other driver may have an easier time suing you for damages. You may also have difficulty registering your car in the future or renewing your license plate.
3. Going the Wrong Way Down a One-Way Street:
While it may seem obvious, many drivers in New York risk violating traffic laws by driving down a one-way street the wrong way. This can be dangerous and can result in a traffic violation and fines. Caruso & Mendoza Law Firm also adds that this violation can also result in jail time if the offense was extreme enough. What’s more, it can result in the driver being labeled a “reckless driver”, which can result in additional penalties and more severe fines.
4. Blocking an Intersection:
In New York, it is also illegal to block an intersection. This applies whether you’re on foot or in a vehicle, as it can be dangerous to other drivers and pedestrians. Violating this law could result in a traffic violation and fines, or even more serious penalties if the blocking was particularly dangerous or deliberate. Slominski CDJ Law says that Blocking an intersection can also result in a driver’s license being revoked or suspended, depending on how serious the violation was. It can even result in the driver’s vehicle being impounded and taken away.
5. Failing to Signal a Turn:
As with all other states, drivers in New York are required to signal their turns for other drivers to know what their intention is. Failing to signal when appropriate can result in numerous different violations, including failure to obey a traffic control device and reckless driving. Haley and Associates notes that Failing to signal a turn can result in fines, or even more severe penalties depending on the level of danger caused by the violation.
6. Driving in a Pedestrian Zone:
Many areas in downtown New York have designated pedestrian zones that are intended to be free of motor traffic. Failing to abide by this law can result in a traffic violation or other penalties that can add up quickly. Mallilo & Grossman explains that Driving in a pedestrian zone can also have more serious consequences. Depending on the severity of the violation, the driver could face a criminal misdemeanor charge, fines, and license suspension.
7. Jaywalking
As with any other state, jaywalking (crossing the street without using a crosswalk or against the signal) is illegal in New York and can result in a traffic violation and fines. Jaywalking can also be dangerous, as it can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, increasing the risk of an accident. Ramel and Friedman says that not only can jaywalking result in fines and other penalties, it can also result in a criminal charge in some cases. If the violation is extreme enough, then the pedestrian could even face jail time for their actions.
8. Skateboarding on the Street:
Many cities have implemented laws that make it illegal to skateboard on city streets. This is to ensure the safety of both the skateboarder and other drivers and pedestrians. Skating in a prohibited area can result in a traffic violation and fines. Rochester Motorcycle Accident Lawyers explains that Skateboarding on the street can also result in more serious penalties, depending on the location. To avoid being ticketed or arrested, always check local laws before skating on city streets.
9. Rollerblading in the Street:
Much like skateboarding, rollerblading on the street is also illegal in many cities. This is done to prevent accidents, especially between car drivers and rollerbladers. Rollerblading on the street can result in fines and other punishments for those who don’t abide by the law. Law Office of Ryan Greenberg warns that Rollerblading on the street can also result in more serious penalties, depending on the violation. In some cases, the rollerblader can face criminal charges and jail time if the violation is considered serious enough.
10. Diving Into a Pool from the Street:
Most cities have laws that make it illegal to dive into a pool from the street. This is done to ensure the safety of those who might be in the area. Failing to abide by this law can result in a traffic violation and fines or other punishments. Grimaldi and Yeung adds that diving into a pool from the street can also result in more serious penalties depending on the severity of the violation and the local laws. In some cases, the diver could even face criminal charges or jail time for their actions.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to get yourself a traffic violation in New York, and if you ever find yourself being charged, you should seek consultation as soon as possible.
