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Seat Belts Tickets: Officer Observation and Testimony is Enough

by Seth Azria on 1/02/2024

To be pulled over, it is enough for a police officer to observe the driver or passenger not wearing a seat belt. People v. Smith, 158 A.D.3d 1081 (4th Dep't 2018).

To be convicted of the seat belt charge, it is enough for the officer to testify that he saw the driver or passenger fail to wear a seat belt. Of, course the driver will testify that he was wearing a seat belt. This creates and issue of credibility for the judge to decide. In Whitten the judge decided in officer’s favor and convicted the driver. Whitten v. Martinez, 24 A.D.3d 285 (1st Dep't 2005).

However, a person wearing belt, under the arm rather than over the shoulder is "restrained" and therefore permissible within the meaning of the law. People v. Locke, 1 Misc. 3d 482, 765 N.Y.S.2d 468 (City Ct. 2003).

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Nothing but the best I was involved in horrible tractor trailer accident I almost lost my life I was given 5 tickets in my hospital bed following too close, imprudent speed, passing violation and 2 brakes safety violations mr azria took my case and got 3 of the tickets dismissed and the other 2 reduced to a parking violation all with 0 points mr azria saved my driver licences and career he did all this for a low price please if your in need of a traffic lawyer call Azria and Bruffett they won't let you down

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David and his office did a great job in getting two speeding violations both over 25 reduced. They are very professional and although they make no guarantees after speaking with David I was confident a reduction was possible. 
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From the first phone conversation with Seth in regard to my ticket for allegedly operating an electronic device I knew I had the right attorney. He assured me I had the best in the area and he was proven right when my ticket was dismissed by the judge. The process to collect as much positive information from a client like myself to go to bat for me has proven that he is an experienced professional and willing to go the distance for his clients. I couldn't be happier.

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The Azira & Bruffett Law Firm was extremely halpful and successful in removing my traffic ticket