Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1129(a), “Following Too Closely”

“Following Too Closely,” otherwise known as “Tailgating,” is a 4-point violation in New York State. The maximum fine is $150 + $93 surcharge. With prior violations on your record, the fine may be higher and you may incur Driver Responsibility Assessment Fees. More importantly, this type of violation causes significant increases in your car insurance premiums.

This ticket is not usually issued on its own. Often, it is issued subsequent to a traffic accident or together with another ticket.

Statute

The following is the exact wording of the statute:

The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.

Fighting a 1129A Ticket

The good news is that this particular charge can be beat, if handled properly. There are several defenses that can be used to get the violation reduced to a parking ticket or dismissed entirely. If you received a ticket charging this violation, it is probably imperative that you look into retaining an attorney. If the ticket is handled properly, it should allow you to avoid the points and increased insurance rates. An attorney can go to court in your place and dispute the charges for you. This means you can get your ticket reduced or dismissed without leaving your home. For more information you can contact the Benjamin Goldman Law Office for a free consultation.

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office is a New York State traffic ticket defense firm. We practice state-wide and have handled cases in the vast majority of the approximately one thousand New York courts that adjudicate traffic violations. The Benjamin Goldman Law Office has had particular success in handling 1129(a) tickets. A partial list of courts where we have successfully handled this particular violation include Guilford, Rochester, North Hudson, Walton, Deerpark, Triangle, Victor, Pembroke, Farmington, and Tyre. The team at the Benjamin Goldman Law Office will be glad to take on your case. Feel free to reach out at your convenience. We can be reached via phone call, text message, or email.

Fight a VTL § 1129(a) Ticket