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


Very quick and very professional. I felt very reassured. Thanks Azria and Bruffett!

Hire Seth!!

I received a speeding ticket in upstate New York (30 mph above speed limit) - this was a 6 point hike on my insurance + fines up to $385. I hired Seth over the phone (I live out-of-state), paid my fees, and crossed my fingers. Wow. My case was resolved in around a month to 0 points and a fine of $135. 100% of my communication after our initial call was over e-mail.

A Speeding Ticket Client posted to Avvo
Google Review

Positive: Professionalism

These lawyers are the best Was up against a judge who hated the company I work for so I know I was not going to get a fair judgment on my behalf So called these guys and they fought for me 5 Star Service Top notch lawyer will be using them again

As advertized

They took over the case and took care of my ticket, I got a good reduction in points

anonymous posted to Avvo