New York Speeding Tickets and Penalties

Read about New York’s speeding laws and the consequences of getting a speeding ticket.

Like most other states, New York has two types of speeding laws: "absolute speeding limits" and a "basic speeding law." This article explains the differences between the two and the consequences of each type of violation.

New York's Basic Speeding Law

New York's basic speeding law prohibits driving at a speed that is "greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing." In other words, motorists must always drive at a safe speed.

What a safe speed is will depend on the circumstances. For instance, on a certain road, 55 miles per hour might be safe on a bright, sunny day. But if it's dark and the road is icy, going 55 miles per hour could be dangerous and a violation of the basic speeding law.

New York's Absolute (Maximum) Speed Limits

There is no trick to how New York's absolute speed limits work: If the sign says the speed limit is 40 miles per hour and you drive faster than 40 miles per hour, you've violated the law.

Generally, the maximum speed limit in New York—unless otherwise posted—is 55 miles per hour.

Costs of a Speeding Ticket in New York

The consequences of a speeding ticket depend on the circumstances, including the type of speed limit the driver is accused of violating and the actual speed in comparison to the speed limit or safe speed.

Fines and Jail for Basic Speeding Law Tickets in NY

A violation of New York's basic speeding law carries $45 to $100 in fines and/or up to 15 days in jail.

Fines and Jail for Maximum Speed Limit Tickets in NY

For most violations of an absolute speed limit, the driver faces $45 to $600 in fines and/or up to 30 days in jail.

Fines and Jail for NY Speeding Tickets in School Zones

Violating an absolute speed limit in a school zone can result in enhanced penalties. Convicted drivers are looking at $45 to $1,200 in fines and/or up to 30 days in jail.

Traffic Points for NY Speeding Tickets

Typically, a speeding violation will add at least three points to a motorist's driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension.

New York's Reckless Driving Laws

Depending on the circumstances, speeding could lead to a "reckless driving" conviction. New York defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle "in a manner which unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or unreasonably endangers users of the public highway."

Get Professional Help

Talk to a Traffic Ticket attorney.

How It Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you

Talk to a Lawyer

Need a lawyer? Start here.

How it Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you