Red Light Tickets

Red light tickets are one of the most common tickets issued in New York State.  In fact, the Federal Highway Administration reports that 1 in 3 drivers admit to running a red light in the past 30 days.  Given the significant risk to the public, an estimated 165,000 people injured annually, its no surprise that New York state imposes serious penalties for red light violations.

Running A Red Light - VTL 1111(d)(1)

New York VTL 1111(d)(1) requires a motorist to stop when facing a steady red signal and remain standing until indicated to proceed.  More specifically, the motorist is required to stop at:

  • A clearly marked stop line.  If there is no stop line, then
  • Before entering the crosswalk.  If there is no crosswalk, then
  • Before the entrance to the intersection

The penalties for violating VTL 1111(d)(1) are quite costly.  The penalties increase with multiple convictions for running a red light in any 18 month period.  A first conviction will cost you:

  • 3 points on your license
  • A fine of up to $225
  • Court surcharge of $93
  • Up to 15 days in jail

A second conviction within 18 months of the first will cost you:

  • 3 points on your license
  • A fine of up to $300
  • Court surcharge of $93
  • Up to 45 days in jail

A third conviction within 18 months of the first will cost you:

  • 3 points on your license
  • A fine of up to $450
  • Court surcharge of $93
  • Up to 90 days in jail

Other Common Red Light Or Red Signal Violations

Other red light or red signal related violations include:

  • Failure to yield right on red - VTL 1111(d)(2)(a)
  • Failure to yield left on red - VTL 1111(d)(2)(b)
  • Passing a red arrow - VTL 1111(d)(3)
  • Failure to obey traffic signal ahead - VTL 1111(e)
  • Passing a flashing red light - VTL 1113(a)
  • Failure to stop at a malfunctioning traffic-control signal - VTL 1117

The penalties are the same for each of the above moving violations.  Each conviction attaches 3 points to your New York state drivers license.  A first conviction will cost you a fine up to $150 plus a $93 court surcharge and the possibility of a jail sentence up to 15 days.  A second conviction within 18 months will cost you a fine up to $300 plus a $93 court surcharge and the possibility of a jail sentence up to 45 days.  A third conviction within 18 months will cost you a fine up to $450 plus a $93 court surcharge and the possibility of a jail sentence up to 90 days.   

Contact A Red Light Ticket Attorney

Contact the Shelton Law firm if you receive a ticket for running a red light.  The Shelton Law Firm knows how to defend clients charged with red light tickets.  We will go to court on your behalf and fight to reduce your points, reduce your fines and avoid increases in your insurance rate.  With the Shelton Law Firm on your side, you have the peace of mind to know that your red light ticket attorney will zealously defend your rights.