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NY Traffic Ticket Defense Articles

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

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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