New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §1180

New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1180 governs speed limits for drivers to make sure motorists and pedestrians are safe. This section of the Vehicle and Traffic law outlines how fast a driver can go in certain situations and sets forth the penalties for violations. If you’ve been injured by a speeding driver who violated New York VTL §1180 call Horn Wright, LLP, to speak with one of our seasoned car accident lawyers to protect your rights.

New York VTL §1180(a): The Basic Rule of Speeding

New York VTL §1180 is straightforward: drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent. This means your speed should match road conditions and any actual or potential hazards. On a clear day with dry roads, a higher speed may be reasonable.

In rain, snow, or heavy traffic, even the posted speed limit could be unsafe and cause a rear-end car accident or a head-on collision. New York law places responsibility on drivers to adjust their speed to ensure safety, rather than blindly adhering to a number on a sign.

New York VTL §1180(b): Maximum Speed Limits

In general, drivers cannot exceed 55 mph unless a different maximum is posted. New York VTL §1180(b) highlights exceptions where specific limits apply:

Special hazards: bad weather and similar conditions can require you to drive slower than the posted limit.

Local speed zones: municipalities are authorized to set lower limits.

New York VTL §1180(c): School Zone Speed Limits

Specific laws exist when driving near school zones to reduce the likelihood of school zone accidents. New York VTL §1180(c) establishes specific rules:

• Speed limits in school zones apply during school days between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM unless otherwise indicated.
• Flashing beacons may signal active school zone speed limits during student activities, including up to 30 minutes before and after events.

New York VTL §1180(e) Adjusting Speed for Specific Conditions 

This section of § 1180 outlines instances when a driver needs to reduce their speeds to remain safe:

• Approaching intersections, railway crossings, or curves.
• Passing emergency vehicles displaying red, blue, or amber lights.
• Navigating narrow or winding roads.
• Encountering pedestrians, work zones, or adverse weather conditions.

New York VTL §1180(f): Work Zone Speed Limits

Speeding through highway construction areas can put both workers and drivers at risk of serious injuries. § 1180(f) allows relevant authorities to set lower speed limits that apply directly to work zones. Often the maximum that is set is 25 mph. 

These areas usually have additional signage that you’re driving in a work zone to ensure compliance and that you’re aware. Driving faster than posted speed limits in work zones can carry significant penalties.

What are the Penalties for New York VTL §1180 Speeding Violations?

Penalties for violating New York VTL §1180 will turn on what subsection was violated and the degree to which it was violated. These are the general penalties for a violation:

General Speeding Penalties:

• 10 mph or less over the limit: $45–$150 fine.
• 11–30 mph over the limit: $90–$300 fine, up to 15 days in jail, or both.
• More than 30 mph over the limit: $180–$600 fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both.

School Zone Penalties:

• 10 mph or less over the limit: $90–$300 fine.
• 11–30 mph over the limit: $180–$600 fine, up to 15 days in jail, or both.
• More than 30 mph over the limit: $360–$1,200 fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both.

Work Zone Penalties:

Penalties are generally stricter because of the elevated danger to road workers.

Repeat Offenders:

Additional fines may apply for multiple violations within an 18-month period:

• Second offense: Up to $150 extra.
• Third or subsequent offenses: Up to $375 extra.

Contact Horn Wright, LLP, Today If Injured By a Speeding Driver

NY Vehicle and Traffic Law §1180 sets forth speed regulations that were designed to promote safety on New York roads. If you’ve been injured by a speeding driver, call Horn Wright, LLP, and speak with an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you pursue justice immediately.