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NY Traffic Ticket Defense Articles

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Commercial Vehicles

New York Highway Use Tax (HUT) Violations

By Seth M. Azria, Esq.

Carriers operating a commercial vehicle on New York public highways are subject to the New York Highway Use Tax Law.

This law requires that vehicles have a Highway Use Tax (HUT) decal indicating compliance with the law. Failing to have this decal creates a presumption that the vehicle is not in compliance.

Penalties for Violating Section 1815

Section 1815 is punishable as follows:
  • First conviction: Fine between $100 and $250.
  • Second and subsequent convictions: Fine between $250 and $500, or jail for up to 10 days.

Other Ways a Driver May Violate Section 1815

A driver may also be deemed to violate Section 1815 if they:

  • Operate a vehicle with a decal that has been suspended or revoked, or if the decal was issued for a vehicle other than the one to which it is affixed.
  • Operate a vehicle with an actual gross weight or unloaded weight above that listed on the HUT certificate.
  • Fail to deliver or surrender the certificate of registration or decal.
  • Fail to keep required records of operation.

For more information, read the official NYS Tax Department HUT Enforcement Provisions.

Received a Highway Use Tax Violation in New York?

Commercial vehicle violations carry steep fines and can impact your livelihood. Contact Azria Law Office today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation with an experienced traffic defense lawyer.

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