Seth Azria Logo

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.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation
Google Review

I emailed Seth at first with some questions about a legal matter, and honestly wasn't sure what to expect. Instead of trying to sign me up as a client, he got on the phone with me and was straightforward, telling me I didn't actually need a lawyer for my situation, then pointed me toward the right resources. That kind of honesty says a lot about his character. I didn't end up needing to retain him for this particular case, but if I ever run into a legal issue in upstate New York, especially anything traffic related, Seth's the guy I'm calling. Appreciate the integrity.

My experience with Seth Azria

I had multiple traffic tickets that included two misdemeanors, speeding, seat belt, expired inspection you name it I had it. Seth was very proficient, effective beyond my expectations, always returned my calls and kept me notified. I know almost nothing related to the law and he was was capable of explaining things in "normal English." I highly recommend him to anyone. On a 5 star scoring system, I rate him as a 10. Thank you Seth.

A Traffic Ticket Client posted to Avvo
Google+ Review

Thank you Seth Azria for getting my traffic ticket dismissed. It was an out of state ticket and I was worried about the consequences. Attorney Azria was very courteous and he allayed all my concerns. He promised me to try his best to reduce the number of points. However, he was able to get the ticket dismissed. Its a classic case of under promise and over deliver.

Debasish Mahapatra posted to Google+
Google Review

Best Lawyer in upstate. i got pulled over by state troopers on the way to Ithaca for speeding over 30+ speed limit. I contacted Seth Azria, and that was the best thing i did. They were able to put me in a program and bang, case dismissed with no point or fee penalties. Thank you so much. I will recommend it to anyone!!