Introduction
Disobeying traffic control devices is a serious offense in New York State. It can result in fines, points on your license, and even license suspension. In this article, we will explore what it means to disobey a traffic control device in NY, what the penalties are, and what you can do if you receive a ticket.
What is a Traffic Control Device?
A traffic control device is any sign, signal, marking, or device used to regulate, warn, or guide traffic. This includes stop signs, traffic lights, yield signs, and lane markings. When you are driving, it is your responsibility to obey these devices in order to keep yourself and other drivers safe on the road.
What Does it Mean to Disobey a Traffic Control Device?
Disobeying a traffic control device means that you have ignored or failed to comply with the instructions provided by the device. This can include things like running a red light, failing to yield at a stop sign, or ignoring lane markings. It is important to remember that even if there are no other cars around, you still need to follow the rules of the road.
Penalties for Disobeying a Traffic Control Device in NY
If you are caught disobeying a traffic control device in NY, you can face a range of penalties. The exact penalties will depend on the specific violation and your driving record. In general, you can expect to receive a fine, points on your license, and potentially even a license suspension.
Fines
The fines for disobeying a traffic control device can be quite steep. For example, running a red light in NY can result in a fine of up to $300 for a first offense. If you receive multiple tickets for the same offense, the fines can increase significantly.
Points on Your License
In addition to fines, you will also receive points on your license for disobeying a traffic control device. The number of points you receive will depend on the specific violation. For example, running a red light will result in three points on your license.
License Suspension
If you receive too many points on your license within a certain period of time, your license can be suspended. This means that you will not be allowed to drive for a certain period of time. The length of the suspension will depend on the number of points you have accumulated and the specific violation.
What to Do if You Receive a Ticket
If you receive a ticket for disobeying a traffic control device in NY, you have a few options. You can plead guilty and pay the fine, or you can plead not guilty and fight the ticket in court. If you choose to fight the ticket, it is important to hire an experienced traffic ticket attorney who can help you build a strong defense.
Conclusion
Disobeying a traffic control device in NY can have serious consequences. It is important to always follow the rules of the road and obey traffic control devices in order to keep yourself and other drivers safe. If you do receive a ticket, remember that you have options and can fight the ticket with the help of an experienced attorney.