Got a Ticket for Ignoring a Traffic Control Device? Here’s What You Need to Know
Drivers must abide by all traffic control devices, such as signs, signals, and pavement markings, according to New York’s stringent traffic rules. Fines, points on your driving record, and higher insurance rates are all possible outcomes of a violation. You don’t have to take the consequences of being penalized for violating a traffic control device lightly. An accomplished New York traffic ticket attorney, James Medows, will assist you in contesting your ticket and possibly lowering or dropping the penalties.
What Does It Mean to Disobey a Traffic Control Device?
Unless instructed differently by a police officer, drivers are required to obey all official traffic control devices under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) 1110(a). Typically, violations are given for:
- Running a stop sign or red light
- Ignoring a one-way or no-turn sign
- Not paying attention to lane markings
- Using a limited lane when driving
- A temporary traffic sign in a construction zone being disregarded
Even if you think the notice was put incorrectly or was not apparent, a violation might still result in:
- Penalties and fees
- Your driver’s license points
- Increased premiums for auto insurance
- Possible suspension of a driver’s license due to repeated infractions
Why You Should Fight a Disobeying Traffic Control Device Ticket
- Reduce or Eliminate Fines – We strive to keep monetary fines to a minimum.
- Avoid Points on Your License – Two points are awarded for a conviction for this infraction.
- Prevent Insurance Rate Increases – Moving offenses may result in higher premiums.
- No Court Appearance Required – James Medows can often take care of everything for you.
- Challenge the Validity of the Ticket – We look at whether the sign or signal was positioned correctly and was easily observable.
Fines and Penalties for Disobeying a Traffic Control Device
| Offense | Fine Amount | Points | Violation Code |
| Disobeying a traffic control device | $150 – $450 | 2 | VTL 1110(a) |
| Running a red light | $150 – $450 | 3 | VTL 1111(d) |
| Failing to stop at a stop sign | $150 – $450 | 3 | VTL 1172(a) |
| Additional surcharge (state-mandated) | $88 – $93 | N/A | N/A |
| Repeat offenses within 18 months | Increased fines, possible license suspension | 2-3 per offense | N/A |
See the 2026 point system changes below
What Counts as a Traffic Control Device Under VTL 1110(a)
VTL 1110(a) covers every official device that directs traffic: signs, signals, and pavement markings. In practice that includes a steady red light, a no-turn or do-not-enter sign, lane-use arrows, painted lane lines, and temporary signage in work zones. If an officer believes you failed to obey any of them, this is the section they cite.
The law also gives the defense its starting point: the device has to be official, properly posted, and observable. A sign that is not clearly visible, not posted correctly, or missing altogether is a real problem for the prosecution. Our guide Understanding the Consequences of Disobeying Traffic Control Devices covers the most common scenarios.
How Much Does a Disobeying a Traffic Control Device Ticket Cost?
The fine printed on the ticket is one part of the total cost. A VTL 1110(a) conviction in New York can include:
- The base fine. As the table above shows, $150 to $450.
- The mandatory state surcharge. New York courts add $88 to $93 on top of the fine.
- Two points on your record. Points from separate tickets accumulate: reaching 6 points within 18 months triggers the Driver Responsibility Assessment of $300 plus $75 for each additional point. Details are on our Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee page.
- Higher insurance premiums. A moving violation on your record can raise rates at renewal for several years.
Where Your Case Is Heard: The TVB or a Local Court
Inside New York City, tickets for disobeying a traffic control device are heard at the DMV Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB). There is no plea bargaining at the TVB: an administrative law judge rules guilty or not guilty after a hearing, and the case usually turns on the officer’s account of the device and your driving. Outside New York City, the ticket goes to a town, village, or city court, where a prosecutor can often negotiate the charge down to a lesser infraction.
James Medows represents drivers in both systems, at TVB locations and local courts across New York State, including Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.
How We Defend Against Disobeying Traffic Control Device Tickets
- Free Case Review – We look over the specifics of your ticket and any supporting documentation.
- Check for Errors – In some cases, officers will issue citations based on signs that are not clear or that are not posted correctly.
- Negotiate with Prosecutors – Talk with the prosecution about a dismissal of the ticket or a reduced charge to a less serious infraction.
- Court Representation – If needed, we will provide a solid legal defense in traffic court.
- Secure the Best Outcome – We fight for you, be it dismissal, reduction of penalties, or alternative sentence.
What to Do After You Receive a Traffic Control Device Ticket
- Do not plead guilty by mail. A guilty plea is a conviction, with the 2 points, the surcharge, and the insurance consequences that follow.
- Photograph the device while conditions are unchanged. The sign, signal, or marking, anything that blocks the view of it, and where it stands relative to the road. Visibility and placement are the core of the defense.
- Respond before the deadline. Missing the response date leads to a default conviction and can suspend your license, while fines and fees keep growing.
- Talk to a traffic ticket lawyer before you decide anything. The consultation is free, and text is usually the fastest way to reach James directly: (917) 856-1247.
Who Should Contest a Disobeying Traffic Control Device Ticket?
- Drivers with prior violations – Stay clear of extra points that can result in suspension.
- Commercial drivers (CDL holders) – Any moving infraction may have an effect on employment for commercial drivers (CDL holders).
- Drivers worried about insurance increases – Drivers who are worried about their insurance rates should be aware that even minor violations can raise charges.
- Anyone wanting to maintain a clean driving record – Those who wish to keep their driving record immaculate should stay clear of unnecessary fines and penalties if they want one.
Do You Have to Go to Court for a 1110(a) Ticket?
In most cases, no. Once you hire our office, we appear on your behalf and handle the hearing from start to finish. Out-of-state drivers can fight a New York traffic control device ticket without returning to the state; whether the conviction transfers home depends on your state’s reciprocity agreement with New York, and the Driver Responsibility Assessment applies to out-of-state license holders as well. Getting started takes a few minutes through our sign-up form.
How to Avoid Future Traffic Control Device Violations
- Observe all posted signs and signals carefully when driving.
- Stop completely at stop signs and red lights.
- Observe lane restrictions and road markings carefully.
- Be cautious in regions that are undergoing development and may have temporary traffic control devices placed.
- Avoid being distracted when driving to prevent missing important signals.
Contact James Medows to Fight Your Traffic Control Device Ticket
Don’t let a traffic control device ticket impact your driving record and finances. James Medows, Traffic Ticket Lawyer, is ready to help. Contact us for a free consultation and start fighting your ticket today!
DMV Point System Changes Coming in 2026
| Violation | Old | New |
| How long points stay on your record | 18 months | 24 months |
| Suspension threshold | 11 points | 10 points |