This charge is sometimes given in connection with an accident. For example, when a car slides off the road and hits a guardrail. Even though the police may not have witnessed the event, the charge applies because the officer may conclude that the driver was not driving at a prudent speed at that time.
Speeding Without Exceeding the Limits:
Even if the speed limit is 65 mph, and a person is driving 45 mph, if the road conditions are poor (like snow, ice, or heavy rain), they still could be charged under this section of the law. This specific speeding ticket does not involve a definite speed.
1. Points for Imprudent Speed
A conviction for driving at a speed not reasonable or prudent under VTL §1180(a) will result in 3 points being added to your driving record.
2. Fines and Possible Jail
The base fines and penalties for this infraction escalate if you have prior speeding convictions within the last 18 months.
| Conviction (Within 18 Mos.) |
Base Fine Range |
Potential Jail Time |
| First Offense |
$45 – $150 |
Up to 15 days |
| Second Offense |
$90 – $300 |
Up to 30 days |
| Third Offense |
$45 – $525 |
Up to 30 days |
3. Mandatory State Surcharges
In addition to the court fines listed above, New York State adds a mandatory surcharge to every conviction:
- $93 for town and village courts
- $88 for other courts (e.g., city courts)
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