Seth Azria Logo

NY Traffic Ticket Defense Articles

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

NY Traffic Laws 3 min read

Stop Signs in New York: What, Where, and Who

By Seth M. Azria, Esq.

What: Penalties for Running a Stop Sign

Failing to stop for a stop sign violates New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1172(a). If convicted or if you plead guilty, a driver faces:

  • Base Fine: Maximum statutory fine of $150 for a first offense.
  • Mandatory Surcharge: Mandatory state surcharge of $93 ($88 in city courts).
  • DMV Points: 3 points assessed to your New York driving record.

Where: Where Must You Stop?

Under NY VTL 1172, a driver approaching a stop sign must come to a complete stop:

  1. At the Stop Line: At a clearly marked stop line painted on the roadway.
  2. At the Crosswalk: If no stop line is present, before entering the marked crosswalk.
  3. At the Intersection: If there is no crosswalk, at the point nearest the intersecting roadway where the driver has a view of approaching traffic, without entering the intersection.

Who: Legal Requirements & Rare Exemptions

All drivers are legally required to stop at stop signs. A rare exception applies to drivers who act involuntarily due to sudden medical emergencies, such as unforeseen seizures or blackouts, rendering them unconscious at the time the vehicle crossed the stop sign.

Received a Stop Sign Ticket in New York?

Don't let a 3-point stop sign ticket impact your insurance premiums or driving record. Contact Azria Law Office today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Get Your Free Case Evaluation
Google Review

I am very pleased with Azria & Bruffet's services. Thanks to them I will not have to suffer from skyrocketing insurance rates due to a speeding ticket being put on my record. They kept me updated thoroughly every step of the way and made the entire process of getting my ticket reduced to a lesser charge very easy. They were also quick to respond to any questions I had throughout the process with a great deal of professionalism. I would not hesitate to deal with them in the future. Thank you Azria & Bruffet!!

Amazing!!!

They took care of my ticket quickly and were very professional, i would highly recommend using them.

Dacid posted to Avvo
Google Review

Very pleased with Mr. Azria Responsiveness and care for me as his client if I had any questions They were answered in 30 minutes or less highly recommend anyone who needs help with their situation. He’s there for you.

Google Review

The lawyer was extremely easy to work with. He guided properly on the process. I had a speeding ticket and advised about the “ Tioga traffic diversion program” that can help get the ticket dismissed.