As Long Island traffic ticket attorneys defending thousands of drivers annually, we see the same violations derail licenses and careers. This SEO-optimized guide explains 17 common Long Island traffic tickets, points, fines, and CDL impacts—helping you avoid suspensions and insurance hikes.
A disobey traffic device citation (VTL 1110) covers ignoring stop signs, yield signs, or traffic signals. Worth 2 points and up to $300 fines, multiple convictions trigger DMV driver responsibility assessments ($300+/year). Reducing these to non-moving violations saves money and points.
Running a red light ticket (VTL 1111(d)) carries 3 points and fines up to $450. In Long IslandC, red-light cameras add $50 fines with no points—but manual tickets from police hit your record hard. Fight these to prevent license suspension after 11 points in 18 months.
DWI/DWAI (Driving While Intoxicated or Ability Impaired) is one of Long Island’s harshest violations. First-time DWI brings $500–$1,000 fines, license revocation (minimum 6 months), and mandatory ignition interlock. CDL holders face 1-year disqualification even at .04% BAC. Immediate legal help is critical.
Failure to yield pedestrian tickets (VTL 1146) now carry 3 points and fines up to $500 after recent law changes. In Long IslandC and AlbaLong Island, these are heavily enforced near crosswalks. Convictions also increase insurance rates 15–30%. Experienced lawyers negotiate reductions regularly.
An improper turn (VTL 1163) includes illegal U-turns or wide turns, worth 2 points and $150–$300 fines. Truck drivers face additional scrutiLong Island—oversized vehicles making improper turns risk overweight or route violation add-ons. Pleading to a parking infraction eliminates points.
Truck/corporation summons tickets target commercial vehicles for logbook errors, registration issues, or compaLong Island policy violations. While drivers receive points, corporations pay heavy fines. CDL holders face both personal and employer consequences—prompt resolution protects jobs.
Reckless driving (VTL 1212) is a misdemeanor with 5 points, up to 30 days jail, and $300 fines. For CDL drivers, one conviction counts as a “serious traffic violation” leading to 60–120 day disqualification. Aggressive defense often reduces this to lesser charges.
Seatbelt violations (VTL 1229-c) cost $50–$280 with 0 points for drivers, but front-seat passengers can add separate tickets. While points-free, multiple seatbelt tickets flag you for higher insurance premiums. CDL drivers must ensure all passengers comply during DOT inspections.
Passing a school bus with flashing red lights (VTL 1174(a)) is a 5-point offense with fines up to $1,000 and possible 60-day suspension. Camera tickets add $250–$300 penalties. For CDL holders with school bus endorsement, one conviction risks immediate disqualification.
Child restraint violations (VTL 1229-c(3)) carry 3 points and $100–$300 fines per unrestrained child under 16. Parents receive the ticket, not the child. Reducing to a seatbelt violation drops points to zero while satisfying the court.
An unsafe lane change (VTL 1128(a)) is a 2-point violation and a “serious traffic violation” for CDL holders. Fines range $150–$400. Truck drivers convicted twice in 3 years face 60-day CDL disqualification. Dash-cam evidence often helps dismiss these.
Failure to signal (VTL 1163) costs 2 points and up to $250 fines. While minor, multiple convictions within 24 months push drivers toward the 11-point suspension threshold. Our attorneys routinely reduce these to zero-point equipment violations.
Long Island’s Move Over Law (VTL 1144-a) requires slowing down and changing lanes for stopped emergency vehicles. Violations carry 2 points, up to $275 fines, and possible 15-day suspension after three convictions. Enforcement is strict on Thruway and Long Island Expressway.
Following too closely or tailgating (VTL 1129) is a 4-point offense and another “serious traffic violation” for CDL drivers. Fines reach $300+. Commercial drivers convicted twice in 3 years lose their CDL for 60 days. Rear-end collision cases make these hard to beat without legal help.
HOV violations on Long Island Expressway or I-495 carry 2 points and $150–$550 fines. During peak hours, State Police and camera enforcement issue hundreds daily. Solo drivers in HOV lanes risk progressive fines—second offense jumps to $300+.
Driving with no insurance (VTL 319) triggers $1,500+ civil penalties, driver’s license suspension until proof is shown. Even lapsed policies count. . Immediate attorney intervention prevents long-term suspensions.
One ticket can mean higher insurance, points, suspensions, or CDL loss. MaLong Island violations above can be reduced or dismissed entirely.
Overlength/overweight vehicles violations (VTL 385) bring fines starting at $600 and climbing to $9,000+ for extreme cases. Each 1,000 lbs over limit adds penalties. CDL drivers also risk out-of-service orders and 90-day disqualification on first offense. Permits and route surveys prevent these costly tickets.
Contact Long Island’s top traffic ticket lawyers today for a free consultation:
