If you have a ticket for a traffic infraction, you may not think it’s a big deal. However, even simple traffic violations such as failing to stop and speeding can turn into criminal traffic cases in New York. General infractions and violations only result in paying a fee online and getting points on your license.
That’s why My Tickets NYC recommends that you hire a lawyer for any traffic citation. You never know when a simple mistake can drastically affect your life.
Criminal Traffic Cases in New York
When it comes to traffic offenses, there is a three-tier structure. Here they are in order from the least to the most severe cases:
- Traffic Infraction or Violation (not a crime)
- Misdemeanor
- Felony
Numbers 2 and 3 above require you to appear in criminal court depending on the conditions at the time of the citation. Traffic violations are upgraded to criminal if there is an injury or death.
What is a Misdemeanor in NY? Criminal Traffic Cases in New York
Driving without a license and driving with an expired registration require you to show up in court. Failure to do so will result an immediate suspension of your license. If you’re pulled over on a suspended license, you next court dealing will be considered a criminal traffic case in New York. Driving on a suspended license is a misdemeanor crime.
Typically, police officers will not place the driver under arrest for a traffic misdemeanor, but it’s not unheard of. The way you react to the situation could influence the outcome of this misdemeanor.
Your license will become suspended with multiple traffic infractions or violations. Being ticketed for speeding multiple times within 18-months is the most common. It’s important to speak with a criminal traffic lawyer in New York if you have had one or more speeding tickets.
For example, driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated (note the difference) are both considered misdemeanors. Depending on the circumstances or driving conditions, a ticket for reckless driving can also count as a misdemeanor.
Penalties for a Misdemeanor in NY
- Arrest and jail for up to a year
- Points on your license
- Increased auto insurance
- Fines up to $1,000
What is a Felony in NY State?
New York state felonies are defined as Class A, B, C, D, or E. Firstly, “Class A” felonies are the most severe while “Class E” felonies can sometimes be negotiated down to a misdemeanor with the right lawyer. As a result, each of these come with their own set of penalties. But you can expect the most severe consequences in any of these cases.
Traffic felonies typically fall under “Class E”. These can be repeat DUI, repeat DWI’s, or leaving the scene of an accident.
Penalties for a Felony in NY
- Jail for minimum of one year and up to a life sentence
- Loss of privileges such as voting, firearm possession, and operating licenses
- Points or revocation of your license
- Fines up to $10,000
If your license is at risk of being suspended or if you’ve committed a traffic misdemeanor or felony, contact My Tickets NYC. Call or text a copy of your traffic ticket(s) to My Tickets NYC at 917-426-2WIN (2946), or complete the e-mail form. My Tickets NYC covers cases in the 5 boroughs, Upstate NY, Long Island and New Jersey. For the best New York traffic ticket lawyers that can help relieve you of your traffic ticket problems contact My Tickets NYC for a FREE consultation.
