Are Speed Traps Legal in NYC?

The short answer is yes, speed traps are legal. Neither New York state nor New York City have laws against police using different tactics to combat speeding.

If you’ve been busted in a speed trap, an NYC speeding ticket lawyer from the Law Office of James Medows will happily discuss your case and the options available to you.

What Is a Speed Trap?

The term “speed trap” is used to refer to many forms of traffic control. Some municipalities like to suddenly reduce the speed limit to ticket non-locals when they miss the sign or as they’re trying to slow down.

Many officers park, waiting in the median, behind signs, or in closed car dealerships, and they don’t have to have their running lights or headlights on if they’re only using radar.

Police are allowed to use private driveways and roads as long as they have the permission of the owner, but even if they don’t, all tickets are still legal. Many towns even place a patrolman with a radar gun on an overpass with radio contact to another officer on the entrance ramp.

NYC Speeding Tiers and Penalties

The penalties for speeding are based on the speed you were going over the maximum limit. You could face fines, jail time, and points on your license.

The following is a look at the tiers of speeding tickets in NYC, as well as some potential punishments:

Speed Over Limit	Fine Range	Points	Max Days Jail Time
1 – 10 mph	$90 – $150	3	15 days
11 – 20 mph	$180 – $300	4	30 days
21 – 30 mph	$180 – $300	6	30 days
31 – 40 mph	$360 – $600	8	30 days
41+ mph	$360 – $600	11	30 – 90 days
Inappropriate Speeds	$45 – $150	3	15 days

Contact an NYC Speeding Ticket Lawyer

Find your New York speeding ticket lawyer when you call the Law Office of James Medows. We will treat you with respect, kindness, and honesty as we help protect your best interests.

If you’d like a free, no-obligation case consultation with an NYC speeding ticket lawyer, give us a call at 917-856-1247 or fill out the information requested below.