Seth Azria Logo

NY Traffic Ticket Defense Articles

Legal insights, guides, and tips for handling traffic tickets in New York.

Flashing High Beams OK, Leaving Them On is Not

by Seth Azria on 12/26/2023
NY Vehicle & Traffic Law 2 min read

Flashing High Beams OK, Leaving Them On Is Not

By Seth M. Azria, Esq.

Penalties for Failure to Dim Headlights

Under New York law, failing to dim your high beams for oncoming traffic is a moving violation carrying the following penalties:

  • DMV Points: 2 points added to your New York driving record.
  • Maximum Base Fine: Up to $150.
  • Mandatory State Surcharge: Mandatory surcharge of $93 ($88 in city courts).

Flashing vs. Leaving High Beams On

If you were charged with this violation, the critical factual distinction is whether you briefly flashed your high beams or left them on for oncoming traffic.

Simply flashing high beam headlights is not a violation of New York State law, which is specifically designed to prevent dazzling light from continuously interfering with oncoming motorists.

Statutory Law & Case Precedent:

New York courts have affirmed that momentarily flashing high beams does not constitute a failure to dim headlights under state statute.

NY VTL ยง 375(3) | People v. Rose, 67 A.D.3d 1447 (4th Dep't 2009)
Facing a Headlight Ticket in New York?

Don't let points accumulate on your driving record. Contact Azria Law Office today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation
Google Review

Excellent experience working with Seth. He successfully reduced my speeding ticket to a non-moving parking violation with zero points. He was incredibly responsive and professional from start to finish. Truly appreciated his help with the Fayetteville Village Court case and would recommend him to anyone!

Google Review

Nothing but the best I was involved in horrible tractor trailer accident I almost lost my life I was given 5 tickets in my hospital bed following too close, imprudent speed, passing violation and 2 brakes safety violations mr azria took my case and got 3 of the tickets dismissed and the other 2 reduced to a parking violation all with 0 points mr azria saved my driver licences and career he did all this for a low price please if your in need of a traffic lawyer call Azria and Bruffett they won't let you down

Took care of business

I needed an expert to help me navigate a speeding ticket in the courts. I was from out of town and Seth was great at explaining the options. I left it in his hands and he was able to negotiate and took care of whatever was necessary. He made it extremely easy and I was happy with the results. Highly recommended.

As advertized

They took over the case and took care of my ticket, I got a good reduction in points

anonymous posted to Avvo