Speeding might seem like a minor traffic infraction, but in Buffalo, New York, it carries serious consequences. Whether you’re a local driver or just passing through, knowing the points system and penalties associated with speeding tickets can save you from hefty fines, license suspensions, and increased insurance premiums.

Understanding the New York State Driver Violation Point System

New York State uses a driver violation point system to monitor and penalize unsafe driving behaviors. Each moving violation, including speeding, adds a certain number of points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can result in severe penalties.

Here’s a breakdown of how points are assigned for speeding violations:

If you accumulate 11 points within an 18-month period, the DMV can suspend or revoke your license.

Fines and Additional Costs

In Buffalo, NY, the fine for a speeding ticket depends on how far over the limit you were driving:

• 1–10 mph over: $45–$150
• 11–30 mph over: $90–$300
• Over 30 mph: $180–$600

In addition to the base fine, you’ll also be required to pay a mandatory New York State surcharge, usually between $88 and $93. But it doesn’t end there.

Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA)

If you accumulate 6 or more points on your license within 18 months, you’re required to pay a Driver Responsibility Assessment:

• $100 per year for 3 years
• $25 for each additional point over 6

This is a separate charge from your ticket fine and surcharge and must be paid directly to the DMV.

Impact on Your Insurance Rates

A speeding ticket can significantly increase your car insurance premiums. In Buffalo, insurers often raise rates by 20–30% or more, depending on the severity of the infraction and your overall driving record.

Repeat offenses or a high number of points can label you a high-risk driver, which may result in:

• Higher premiums
• Loss of good driver discounts
• Potential policy cancellation

Insurance companies typically review your driving record annually, and points remain visible to insurers for several years, even if they are removed from your official DMV point total after 18 months.

License Suspension and Revocation

For drivers who accumulate too many points or commit serious violations, the consequences escalate quickly:

• 11+ points in 18 months: License suspension possible
• Three speeding convictions within 18 months: Mandatory license revocation
• Driving 40+ mph over the limit: License suspension is likely, especially if combined with other offenses

Commercial drivers and probationary license holders face even stricter standards and can lose their licenses for fewer violations.

What to Do If You Receive a Speeding Ticket in Buffalo

If you receive a ticket, you generally have three options:

1. Pay the Fine (Plead Guilty):
   Quick and straightforward but results in automatic points and potential insurance rate hikes.
2. Plead Not Guilty and Contest the Ticket:
   You can request a hearing in traffic court to fight the charge. If successful, you may have the ticket dismissed or reduced.
3. Hire a Traffic Attorney:
   An experienced local traffic lawyer can negotiate for reduced penalties or get charges dropped entirely.

How to Reduce Points and Penalties

While points remain on your DMV record for 18 months, there are ways to mitigate their impact:

Defensive Driving Course (Point Reduction Program)

By completing a New York State-approved defensive driving course, you can:

• Reduce your point total by up to 4 points (for DMV purposes only)
• Receive a 10% discount on your car insurance premium for 3 years

Note: This does not physically remove points from your record, but it can prevent suspension.

Final Thoughts

Speeding in Buffalo, NY, is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can have long-term financial and legal consequences. From license suspension to surging insurance premiums, the cost of a speeding ticket adds up fast. Understanding the point system and taking proactive measures—like contesting your ticket or completing a defensive driving course—can help protect your driving record and wallet.

If you’ve been ticketed, don’t ignore it. Know your rights, understand the penalties, and act wisely to minimize the impact.