VTL 1128(a), Moved From Lane Unsafely

You may at some point in your life have heard the term “stay in your lane”. In life and definitely on the road, it is a good idea to do so. Failure to do so can lead to unnecessary problems and occasional traffic tickets.

VTL § 1128-a concerns this phenomenon. The section concerns the unsafe movement from a lane. It applies on roads that have more than one road designated for traffic. It also applies on shared roads where one lane is headed in one direction of traffic and the other is headed opposite.

A ticket for Moved From Lane Unsafely is not one of the most common violations cited. It is often issued as an add-on to other tickets, like speeding. We have seen many such tickets issued subsequent to an accident. Though it is easily avoidable, it is not a minor violation. Unfortunately, this ticket will result in three points on your license and a fine of up to $243, inclusive of the mandatory New York State surcharge. With the high likelihood that this ticket was issued alongside other tickets, these points and driver assessment fees can quickly stack up.

Statute

The language is brief and to the point:

“Driving on roadways laned for traffic. Whenever any roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic the following rules in addition to all others consistent herewith shall apply: (a) A vehicle shall be driven as nearly as practicable entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from such lane until the driver has first ascertained that such movement can be made with safety.”

Disputing an 1128-a Ticket

The good news is that there are some strong defenses to this charge. For various reasons, this type of ticket is easier to beat as compared to other more common charges such as speeding. In New York, your attorney can go to court in your place to handle all aspects of your traffic related charges. This means you can possibly avoid the points and the increased insurance rates without having to leave your home. For more information you contact the attorneys at the Benjamin Goldman Law Office PC.

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office is a New York State traffic ticket law firm. Our firm helps motorists across the state with all types of traffic-related charges. We have seen particular success fighting 1128(a) tickets. Our attorneys are usually able to get them dismissed or reduced to parking tickets. A partial list of courts where we have seen successfully handled 1128A tickets include Yonkers, Chestertown, Fishkill, Farmington, Austerlitz, Pembroke, Mendon, Triangle, Concord, Dunkirk, and Angelica. Our team looks forward to helping with your case. Contact us at your convenience. We can be reached by phone call, email, or text. Consultations are free.

Fight a VTL § 1128(a) Ticket