Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help with Traffic Violations in New York?
If you've been issued a traffic ticket in New York, you may be wondering if hiring a criminal defense lawyer is worth it. After all, isn't it easier to just pay the fine and move on? Well, not necessarily. Depending on the severity of your violation and your driving record, a traffic ticket can have serious consequences - from hefty fines to points on your license to even jail time. That's where our experienced traffic violation attorneys at Spodek Law Group come in.As one of the premier law firms in the country, we have a deep understanding of New York's complex traffic laws and a proven track record of successfully defending clients against all types of moving violations.
Whether you've been caught speeding, running a red light, driving without insurance, or even driving under the influence, we can help. Our skilled legal team will thoroughly review the details of your case, identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's arguments, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.So what are some of the most common traffic violations we handle? Let's take a closer look:
Speeding TicketsSpeeding is by far the most common traffic violation in New York. And while it may seem like a minor offense, the penalties can be severe - especially if you're caught going well over the limit or have prior speeding tickets on your record. A conviction for speeding can result in:
- Fines ranging from $45 to $600 or more
- 3 to 11 driver violation points added to your license
- Possible license suspension or revocation
- Increased insurance premiums
Our attorneys can fight to get your speeding ticket dismissed or reduced to a lesser offense with lower fines and fewer (or no) points. We may be able to argue that:
- The officer's radar or laser device wasn't properly calibrated
- There was a lack of probable cause for the stop
- The officer made an error in clocking your speed
- You were speeding due to an emergency situation
Red Light and Stop Sign ViolationsRunning a red light or stop sign is another very common - and very dangerous - traffic violation. In New York, the penalties for disobeying a traffic control device can include:
- A fine of up to $450
- 3 driver violation points on your license
- Surcharges of $88 to $93
If you've been ticketed for a red light or stop sign violation, our lawyers can challenge the officer's account of what happened and work to get the ticket thrown out. We may argue that:
- The traffic control device was obstructed or malfunctioning
- You couldn't see the device due to weather or road conditions
- It was unsafe for you to stop suddenly
- The officer's view was obstructed
Driving Without InsuranceGetting caught driving without insurance in New York is a serious offense that can lead to severe penalties, including:
- A fine of up to $1,500
- Mandatory surcharges of $300 to $400
- License and registration suspension
- Vehicle impoundment
If you've been charged with driving without insurance, it's crucial that you consult with a knowledgeable traffic attorney right away. We can help you understand your options and work to minimize the consequences. In some cases, we may be able to get the charges dismissed if we can prove that:
- You had valid insurance at the time but didn't have proof with you
- Your insurance lapsed due to a billing error or missed payment
- You were driving someone else's uninsured vehicle
DUI and DWAIOf all the traffic violations, driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is perhaps the most serious. A conviction for DUI in New York can result in severe criminal and administrative penalties, such as:
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- License revocation for at least 6 months
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device
- Up to 1 year in jail
New York also has a lesser charge called driving while ability impaired (DWAI) that applies to drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) between .05 and .07 or who are impaired by drugs. While the penalties for DWAI are not as harsh as those for DUI, a conviction can still lead to fines, license suspension, and up to 15 days in jail.If you've been arrested for drunk or drugged driving, our DUI defense attorneys can aggressively challenge the charges and protect your rights. We may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed by arguing that:
- The traffic stop was unlawful
- The field sobriety tests were improperly administered
- The breathalyzer device was defective
- The blood or urine test was contaminated
No matter what type of traffic ticket you're facing, don't just pay the fine and accept the consequences.
Contact Spodek Law Group today at 212-300-5196 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced New York traffic violation lawyers. We'll listen to your side of the story, explain your options, and fight hard to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. With our skilled legal team in your corner, you can rest assured that your rights and driving privileges will be vigorously protected.
