Traffic violation penalties in Astoria can be serious, including fines, points on your license, and even potential license suspensions or revocations. Fighting to minimize these penalties can be difficult and stressful without the right legal guidance.
At The Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger, our knowledgeable traffic lawyers help clients understand their rights, evaluate their cases, and develop strategies to minimize or fight charges. Whether it is a speeding ticket, reckless driving, or other traffic offense, we can protect your driving record and your future.
What Are Common Traffic Violations?
Each type of traffic violation carries its own penalties. Common types of violations include:
- Speeding
- Driving without insurance or registration
- Failing to yield to pedestrians
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI) and/or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
If you are convicted of an offense, you must pay a fine and receive points on your license, but there are other derivative effects. Your insurance company checks your driving record when it comes time to renew your policy. If you have convictions for traffic offenses, they may increase your policy premiums, meaning you have every incentive to contest the charges against you.
The New York State Driver Point System
Most types of moving violations result in driver’s license points if you are convicted. A basic speeding offense adds three points, but since most speeding tickets allege a driver was ten miles per hour over the limit, most offenders can expect four or more points. Reckless driving can result in anywhere from six to 11 points, depending on the circumstances.
In New York State, if someone receives six points, they may be ordered to take a safety course to improve their driving. If they receive 11 or more points on their license within 18 months, they face license suspension. Thus, even one severe traffic ticket in Astoria, such as reckless driving, can lead to penalties like the loss of your license or expensive fines, and should be fought with the help of an attorney like Mike Schillinger.
How Can You Fight a Traffic Ticket
In Astoria, traffic violations are handled in local Queens courts, and you have the right to contest the ticket and related penalties in front of a judge with the help of a skilled defense lawyer from the Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger.
An attorney can negotiate with the court or prosecutor to reduce fines, lower points on your license, or even have the ticket dismissed. Fighting a ticket often involves reviewing the citation and the officer’s report, gathering evidence, and presenting witnesses or documentation that supports your case. Common defenses a legal advisor can use include:
- Proving you were not in violation of the Vehicle and Traffic Law
- Questioning the officer’s observations
- Challenging the accuracy of the summons
- Calling attention to a violation of your rights
A dedicated traffic attorney who knows local procedures can represent you in court, protect your rights, and help you achieve the best possible outcome while saving time and stress. Taking action promptly is crucial, as there are strict deadlines for responding. Even if you are unable to overturn the traffic ticket entirely, you may get the points associated with the violation removed, which could save you thousands of dollars and reduce any potential risk to your driving privileges.
Contact an Astoria Lawyer About Traffic Violation Penalties Today
If you have received a ticket and are worried about traffic violation penalties in Astoria, do not face it alone. The Law Office of Michael A. Schillinger provides experienced defense to help protect your driving record and minimize consequences. Our team understands local laws and court procedures, and we can fight aggressively as your advocate. Contact us today for a consultation to take the first step toward resolving your traffic violation with confidence.