DMV Driver Responsibility Assessments

More Fees That Affect Your Wallet
By

If you are convicted of a traffic violation in New York State, then be prepared to start paying… or keep reading to learn how to avoid or reduce unnecessary fees.

The New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law now requires all drivers who are convicted of certain traffic violations to pay a mandatory Driver Responsibility Assessment fees to the DMV.[1] The program applies to all drivers who operate, or operated, a motor vehicle in New York State, regardless of the state in which they are licensed.[2]

What many New York and out-of-state motorists may not be aware of is that these New York DMV Assessment Fees are in addition to the already exorbitant ticket fines, court fees, mandatory surcharges, and other penalties. They are simply an extra grab at your wallet.

Traffic Violations Resulting in Driver Responsibility Assessment Fees:[3]

  • alcohol-related traffic violations occurring in NYS on or after November 18, 2004 (includes boats and snowmobiles). $750 FEE
  • drug-related traffic violations occurring in NYS on or after November 18, 2004 (includes boats and snowmobiles). $750 FEE
  • a DMV hearing determining that you refused a chemical test occurring in NYS on or after November 18, 2004 (includes boats and snowmobiles). $750 FEE
  • 6 or more points on your NYS driver record during a period of 18 months occurring in NYS, Quebec, or Ontario on or after November 18, 2004. $300 FEE PLUS $75 FOR EACH POINT OVER SIX.
 
Right now you may be asking yourself, “what should I do in order to avoid or reduce these extra fees?” Consult an attorney. Plain and simple. 
 
A qualified and experienced traffic lawyer will likely save you money. This will come in the form of a reduction or outright dismissal of the charges, less or no points added to your license, minimization of fines/fees, and usually most important, a reduction or no impact on your insurance rate.
 
The Law Office of Lorenzo Napolitano is experienced in representing motorists in all types of traffic matters. I aggressively seek dismissals and reductions of charges, resulting in lower fines, less points, and less impact on your insurance. Often, my clients never even have to go to court.
 
To find out how I can help you with your traffic matter, contact my office for a free consultation at (585) 325-4445 or email me at Lorenzo@NapolitanoLaw.com. For more information, please visit my website at www.NapolitanoLaw.com.

[1] New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website, Driver Responsibility Program, available at http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/drp.htm
[2] Id.
[3] Id.